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Chicago Teahouse

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Why Chicago Teahouse is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family

Chicago Teahouse, situated in the historic Gold Coast neighborhood on North State Street, is a standout destination for tea enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. This female-owned, locally operated tea shop offers an extensive selection of over 200 premium loose-leaf teas, ranging from white, green, black, oolong, rooibos, to a variety of herbal blends. What sets Chicago Teahouse apart is its dedication to quality and heritage, sourcing most teas from trusted German growers — preserving the roots from its original franchise days — as well as exclusive matcha and teas from a renowned Japanese garden. The shop's inviting tea bar invites guests to savor hot or iced tea in a freshly brewed, relaxing setting, making it an excellent spot for socializing or taking a peaceful break in the city. Beyond tea, the store stocks elegant tea accessories, locally sourced honey, gourmet chocolates, cookies, and other locally crafted treats, enhancing the overall sensory experience. The tea house also extends its reach nationwide through an accessible e-commerce platform, making its curated selection available to tea lovers far beyond Chicago. Recognized as the “Best Tea Shop in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine, this establishment blends thoughtful curation, superior products, and a warm ambience ideal for meeting friends, exploring new flavors, and deepening one’s appreciation for tea culture.

Here's what people think of Chicago Teahouse

As of recent, Chicago Teahouse holds a 4.9-star rating based on 223 reviews.

Patrons consistently praise Chicago Teahouse for its exceptional product quality and knowledgeable, friendly staff who offer expert guidance on tea varieties and brewing. Positive reviews often highlight the sophisticated and diverse tea selections, the serene and welcoming atmosphere of the tea bar, and the shop’s commitment to sourcing teas that are lab-tested for purity and safety. Customers also appreciate the additional offerings such as beautiful tea ware and delicious local accompaniments that complement their tea experience. Many commend the store’s location in the historic Gold Coast as convenient and charming. On the other hand, some negative comments mention occasional limitations on seating capacity at the tea bar, which can feel cramped during busy times, and a few visitors noting higher price points reflective of the premium product curation. There have also been remarks about limited parking options nearby due to the urban location. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive. The combination of award-winning tea selection, knowledgeable service, thoughtful product curation, and inviting ambiance secures Chicago Teahouse’s reputation as a cherished local and national favorite among tea connoisseurs and new enthusiasts alike.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

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Brittany Worthington

Strawberry Potion It smelled so amazing as soon as I opened the package. It brewed a pretty amber color. The strawberry flavor was so wonderful, and the black tea was nice and smooth. There was a hint of sweetness already, so I didn't need to add anything to it. This one would make an excellent iced tea! I really liked this one! Blood Orange Black This tea was really good! It steeped up a lovely orange color. The citrus is bright and refreshing. Very bold zesty flavors. Citrus and black tea just go so well together. I didn't add anything to this one, I thought it was perfect as is. I really enjoyed trying this one! Pineapple Mango I loved this tea! It's very tropical tasting with pineapple and mango flavors. There was a little bit of floral notes. I thought it was so unique! It's sweet and fruity. There's so much flavor in this tea, its so delicious! I didnt add anything to this one. I thought it was great as is. Perfect tea to sip on this summer. This one is definitely a new favorite of mine!

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Angie Middleton

Strawberry Potion from Chicago Tea Company is a delightful and magical elixir of strawberries, black tea and strawberry leaves. With a base of black tea, this strawberry forward blend holds just a bit of tartness to it, which keeps it from being cloying. It ingredients also holds many health benefits including improving the immune system and is good for cardiovascular functions. From the package, the aroma of strawberry is very apparent with its sweetness that carries over to when it steeps. I prepared mine in 200 degree water and let it steep for four minutes resulting in a lovely sherry colored infusion. Its flavor produces a sweet and fruity taste, balanced with the classic, bold flavor of black tea. I didn’t find it needs sweetened but I did find the addition of a sweetener really heightened the fruit filled flavor. This is a wonderful tea that I imagine would be wonderful as a cold brew. For a fruit lover like me, I loved every bit of this morning treat.

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Gayle Merkt

Chicago Teahouse offers some truly delightful blends. Pineapple Mango is a tropical escape in a cup—fruity, smooth, and never too tart. Blood Orange Black is bold and balanced with vibrant citrus and a rich black tea base. And Strawberry Potion? Pure magic. It tastes like a strawberry pastry and feels like a cozy little spell. Every tea I’ve tried has been thoughtfully crafted and full of real flavor. Highly recommend!

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Flecia Ogert

Strawberry Potion from the Chicago Teahouse is a new favorite! Let me just start this off by saying I was impressed the moment I opened this bag of tea and could smell the intense strawberry aroma. Closing my eyes, this transported right back to happy memories of childhood surrounded by strawberry shortcake. I love Strawberries and they are the quintessential summer fruit. I have had my fair share of strawberry flavored teas that fell flat for me. This Strawberry potion must have the magical secret, because the strawberry flavored shined through and was naturally sweet enough that I did not need to sweeten at all to enjoy this flavored black tea. It was a perfect combination of natural sweetness, true strawberry flavors, and smooth and flavorful cup. This one is on the reorder list for sure and highly recommend. I cannot wait to try it again iced and maybe even as a sun tea.

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Kimberly Follett

I tried 3 fruit teas and definitely enjoyed all 3. Strawberry Potion was full of sweet, sunny, full-on strawberry flavor without the overly sugared or artificial taste of many other strawberry teas. The Blood Orange Black blend was full of zesty and smooth orange. The orange wonderfully did not overwhelm the black tea. The final tea was Pineapple Mango. To this, I added local wildflower honey and received a delicious tropical tea. A strong pineapple flavor enriched by mango with floral notes was refreshing. All 3 teas were expertly crafted with harmonious flavor. I certainly will revisit these teas.

How to reach Chicago Teahouse

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Why Chicago Teahouse may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out

Why rally at Chicago Teahouse with your friends? Chicago Teahouse is an exceptional venue to gather and connect with friends or family because it blends a warm, inviting atmosphere with the rich culture and artistry of tea. This highly rated tea shop, boasting a stellar 4.9 rating from over 220 reviews, has earned its reputation as Chicago’s best tea shop thanks to its outstanding service and premium product selection. It’s not just a place to drink tea; it’s a space where people can relax, rejuvenate, and share a meaningful experience over a comforting cup of tea. The ambiance encourages leisurely socializing in an environment that’s tranquil yet vibrant, providing both intimacy for close friends and enough room for larger group meetups. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a busy day or celebrate special moments, Chicago Teahouse sets the perfect scene to make those gatherings memorable. Additionally, the knowledgeable staff ensures each visit is informative and personalized, enhancing the experience beyond a typical tea house. This makes it a unique venue that invites conversation and communal enjoyment, ideal for rallying your circle in Chicago’s bustling heart.

What makes Chicago Teahouse perfect for group meetups? Chicago Teahouse offers an extensive variety of over 200 premium loose-leaf teas, guaranteeing that every group member can find something they adore, from floral and fruity blends to traditional black, green, and matcha teas. This impressive selection caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, making it inclusive for everyone in your party. Beyond just tea, the shop offers an array of tea accessories, including authentic Japanese matcha bowls and bamboo whisks, which can turn a simple tea session into an interactive experience. It’s common for groups to book tea tasting events here where you can explore the nuances of different teas together; these events last about an hour and come with expert guidance, perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts. The setting is cozy yet spacious enough to accommodate group interactions comfortably, allowing you to enjoy casual chats or even organize tea-focused celebrations or meetups. The presence of knowledgeable staff helps guide your group in choosing the best teas and accessories, ensuring everyone feels welcomed and involved.

What activities can you enjoy at Chicago Teahouse for a fun group gathering? Beyond serving exceptional teas, Chicago Teahouse offers structured activities such as tea tasting sessions and workshops that deepen your appreciation for tea culture. Their popular offerings include “Tea 101: Beginner’s Guide to Tea,” which is ideal for those new to tea, and “The Art of Mixology with Tea,” where groups can learn to craft unique tea-based cocktails and beverages, especially around holidays. These hands-on experiences are perfect for groups wanting a unique and educational social outing that goes beyond the usual café visit. Additionally, the store’s relaxing ambiance is conducive to steady conversation and casual enjoyment, making it an excellent spot to meet and socialize at your own pace. You can also participate in trying premium matcha tea experiences, complete with authentic accessories, which add an element of tradition and ceremony. For shoppers, the in-store selection allows groups to browse and pick teas and gifts, making it a delightful place to bring back souvenirs of your meetup.

How accessible and accommodating is Chicago Teahouse for all group members? Chicago Teahouse values inclusivity and accessibility, providing a wheelchair-accessible entrance and lift, ensuring that everyone in your group can comfortably access the premises regardless of mobility needs. The store accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, accommodating all preferences for convenience. As a women-owned small business, Chicago Teahouse fosters a welcoming environment where community and customer service are priorities. Its location on North State Street is easy to reach within Chicago’s vibrant downtown area, making it accessible for locals and tourists alike. The store’s operational hours are also accommodating, running from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and closing slightly earlier on weekends, perfect for both daytime gatherings and early evening meetups.

Why choose Chicago Teahouse over other venues for your next social event? Chicago Teahouse stands out due to its combination of unparalleled tea quality, expert staff, and welcoming atmosphere that encourages social bonding. It’s not just a tea shop but a destination that offers cultural enrichment through its products and events. Being named the Best Tea Shop in Chicago is a testimonial to its commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. Unlike noisy bars or generic coffee shops, Chicago Teahouse provides a calm environment that invites relaxation, making it ideal for meaningful conversations and bonding during your meetup. The ability to engage in tea tastings and mixology workshops adds a layer of fun and education that enriches group experiences and creates lasting memories. Moreover, the shop’s specialized selection and authentic accessories make it a notable choice for tea lovers looking to celebrate their passion with friends or family, giving your gathering that special, unique touch.

What can visitors expect regarding customer service and the atmosphere at Chicago Teahouse? Guests consistently praise Chicago Teahouse for its friendly, knowledgeable staff who not only help you pick your perfect tea but also share insights into tea traditions and brewing techniques. This level of customer service makes every visit feel personalized and special. The tea house itself fosters a cozy yet sophisticated vibe, where modern elegance meets the calming rituals of tea culture. The design and layout support intimate interactions without feeling cramped, allowing groups to comfortably enjoy their time without distraction. Whether you’re a casual tea drinker or an aficionado, the welcoming atmosphere and attentive team create a homey yet refined setting for your gathering. Plus, the quiet ambiance is conducive to catching up with friends, making plans, or simply enjoying the moment together, enhancing the social value of your visit significantly.

How does Chicago Teahouse support wellness and health during your group visit? Tea is well-known for its calming and health-promoting properties, and Chicago Teahouse emphasizes this with its range of functional tea blends designed to support wellness routines. Their selection includes premium matcha and other specialty teas that provide antioxidants, improve digestion, and offer a soothing break from daily stress. For groups interested in health, this makes the tea house a natural choice for gatherings that focus on self-care, mindfulness, and relaxation. You can incorporate a wellness theme into your meetup by sampling these carefully curated teas while discussing their benefits, adding an educational and health-conscious dimension to your social time. This approach complements a balanced lifestyle and invites guests to take home teas that contribute positively to their wellbeing, making Chicago Teahouse more than just a social setting but also a source of nourishment for body and mind.

What additional shopping opportunities does Chicago Teahouse offer for group visitors? Besides its extensive loose-leaf tea selection, Chicago Teahouse sells high-quality tea accessories and merchandise, making it an excellent destination for group members who want to explore or expand their tea rituals at home. From elegantly crafted tea pots, cups, and matcha bowls to utensils like bamboo whisks and scoops, the shop provides tools that enhance not just flavor but the entire tea experience. This allows visitors to purchase personal or group gifts, turning your meetup into a memorable shared occasion where everyone leaves with a special treasure. The unique accessories also make this an excellent place to host group shopping outings or even small gifting parties. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a loved one, these offerings elevate the overall visit and make Chicago Teahouse a complete tea culture hub that seamlessly combines consumption, learning, and retail.

What makes Chicago Teahouse a community-focused and culturally rich venue? Chicago Teahouse prioritizes connection—not just within your own group but also among the larger community and tea culture worldwide. Being a women-owned small business, it supports diversity and inclusivity within its staff and customers alike. The store has been featured in notable publications such as Tea Time Magazine and Chicago Magazine, reflecting its cultural prominence and dedication to quality. Their tea tasting events and workshops invite people to experience tea not only as a beverage but as a cultural practice that bridges generations and geographies. These elements enrich group visits with a sense of participation in something larger, fostering mutual respect and appreciation among guests. This cultural depth, combined with a welcoming atmosphere, makes Chicago Teahouse an ideal place for friends or families looking to celebrate tradition, community, and friendship through shared sensory experiences.

How can you plan your visit to Chicago Teahouse for a group meetup? Planning your meetup at Chicago Teahouse is straightforward and convenient. The shop is centrally located at 1160 N. State Street in Chicago, easily accessible by public transit or car. Their store hours from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and slightly shorter weekend hours accommodate diverse schedules, so you can pick the time that best fits your group. It’s recommended to call ahead at (312) 932-0639 or use the website contact form to inquire about tea tasting availability or to reserve space for larger groups. The staff is quick to respond and helpful in arranging events tailored to your group’s interests. Whether you're looking for a quick tea stop or a longer, immersive experience, Chicago Teahouse’s flexible service options—including in-store shopping and pick-up—ensure your visit will be smooth and enjoyable.

By choosing Chicago Teahouse as your meetup locale, you or any group secure a rich, memorable experience centered on the elegant tradition of tea, warm hospitality, and shared discovery, making it the ideal destination for friends and families seeking something truly special in Chicago.

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