When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
TAO TEA
Why TAO TEA is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Tao Tea offers a premier tea experience, ideal for meeting up with friends in a warm, culturally rich atmosphere centered on organic, high-quality teas. Founded over 25 years ago in Portland, Oregon, Tao Tea champions fresh and pure loose leaf teas sourced from diverse regions worldwide. The business started as an international teahouse, evolving into a respected retailer offering loose leaf teas, bottled varieties, whole leaf sachets, and artisan teaware. Its ethos focuses on tea as an art form full of soul, selecting only the freshest, pesticide-free leaves cultivated by skilled growers. The founder, Veerinder S. Chawla, underscores this commitment by personally engaging with tea farms and emphasizing quality over price. Beyond product excellence, Tao Tea nurtures community connections through its local tea shops and events that celebrate tea culture, making it an inviting place to enjoy a quality brew among friends. Moreover, the aesthetic appeal with artisan-crafted teaware enhances the sensory experience, while a variety of internationally sourced teas gives visitors a world tour in every cup. This dedication to quality, artistry, and culture positions Tao Tea as a thoughtful, vibrant meeting spot for tea lovers seeking both authentic flavors and meaningful social engagement.
Here's what people think of TAO TEA
As of recent, TAO TEA holds a 4.6-star rating based on 400 reviews.
User reviews of Tao Tea consistently praise the exceptional quality and flavor profile of their teas, noting the freshness and purity that exemplify the brand's commitment to organic, artisanal products. Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff, appreciated for their attentiveness, personalized recommendations, and genuine passion, which enriches the customer experience. Many customers also enjoy the community atmosphere and the emphasis on tea education and culture, making each visit an uplifting and inspiring event. However, some feedback points to the limited seating and table space at their physical locations, which can make group activities like studying or extended hangouts challenging. Despite this, customers generally agree that the aesthetic ambiance with tasteful decor and neon signs contributes to a pleasant environment. Overall, the consensus is that Tao Tea excels in delivering quality teas and wonderful service, with minor spatial constraints that do little to detract from the overall positive social and sensory experience. As such, Tao Tea remains a favored destination for those who value authentic tea culture and a warm, engaging community space.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Angelina Sarcona
I have come here twice and both times I loved it! The boba tasted great and the service is good. There are so many drink options too. The decorations inside are so cute. I recommend coming when in Wicker park.
M L.
Cute shop with good amount of options. Brown sugar boba is nice, very creamy. It does not have tea though. Nice place to hang out.
Lisette John
Top Tao Tea is undoubtedly one of the cutest and most aesthetically pleasing boba cafes in Chicago! From the moment you step inside, the charming decor and cozy atmosphere make it an inviting spot to enjoy your drinks. During my visit, I had the pleasure of trying several delightful flavors: the Dragonfruit Kumquat was a refreshing delight with a vibrant hue and a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The Oreo Brown Sugar was a rich and indulgent treat that combined the creamy flavors of Oreo with a deep brown sugar sweetness—absolutely divine! The Thai Milk was smooth and comforting, capturing the essence of a traditional Thai drink, while the Passion Fruit Tea brought a burst of fruity freshness that was simply irresistible. Last but not least, the Matcha Tea provided a lovely earthy flavor that's both calming and revitalizing. Overall, Top Tao Tea offers a fantastic selection of beverages that cater to a variety of tastes, all within a beautifully decorated space. I highly recommend this charming cafe for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious boba experience in Chicago!
Aanchal Zartaj
I recently visited Top Tao Tea, and I loved it! The cozy atmosphere made it a great place to unwind. I had the taro tea—so delicious and creamy! We played Uno while enjoying our drinks, which added to the fun. The staff is super friendly and helpful. Overall, it's a perfect spot for tea lovers looking for a relaxed vibe. I can’t wait to go back!
Dawn Zaborowski
My husband and I were pretty serious about finding a public restroom while walking through Chicago with our kids. How lucky, to have picked this place to stumble into. The environment is clean, and inviting. The bathroom..immaculate (thank you 💗). And since it was so clean and inviting we decided to grab a few of their teas for our kids. They reported all good things and devoured their beverages. Thanks for keeping such a clean shop, and for having facilities for customers to use. We will be back next time we come to the area! Many blessings to you, and we pray your shop is good good success 🙏
How to reach TAO TEA
None
Website: None
Why TAO TEA may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at TAO TEA with your friends?
Gathering with friends and family at TAO TEA offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a serene yet vibrant atmosphere centered around tea culture. With a solid rating of 4.6 from 400 reviews, TAO TEA is widely appreciated for its welcoming ambiance, quality beverages, and excellent service. The moment you step in, you are wrapped in an inviting environment that encourages relaxation, conversation, and connection. Unlike typical coffee shops or noisy bars, TAO TEA provides a calm sanctuary to bond over carefully prepared teas and delicious snacks, perfect for meaningful conversations or simply unwinding together. The wide variety of teas appeals to diverse palates, ensuring everyone in your group can find something to enjoy. This place also emphasizes organic and whole-leaf teas, reflecting a commitment to quality and wellness that adds a thoughtful dimension to the meetup experience. Hosting your gathering here means not just sharing drinks, but sharing a cultural journey through tea, complemented by an atmosphere that promotes peace and mindfulness, enhancing social bonds.
What activities can you enjoy at TAO TEA and why is it perfect for group meetups?
At TAO TEA, the core activity revolves around exploring the rich world of tea through tastings and pairings. The extensive tea menu includes organic loose-leaf teas from various regions, such as China, India, and the USA, and they offer both pure and flavored varieties including black, green, and dark teas. This wide selection makes it ideal for groups who want to sample different flavors or find their personal favorites. Tastings serve as a communal experience, where friends can discuss aromas, share preferences, and learn tea preparation techniques together. Beyond tea sipping, TAO TEA often hosts events or workshops related to tea culture, wellness, and spirituality, providing enriching group activities that deepen appreciation for tea traditions and offer educational content. The seating arrangements and cozy layout foster intimate conversations without interruptions, making it a perfect spot for both casual chats and in-depth discussions. This mix of tasteful beverages, educational opportunities, and comfortable ambiance transforms any meetup into a memorable event, adding cultural and sensory value that goes beyond just having a drink.
How does TAO TEA’s environment enhance group gatherings?
The environment at TAO TEA is carefully curated to balance tranquility with social warmth, which makes it uniquely suited for group meetings. The interior design emphasizes natural materials, soft lighting, and minimalist decor, which invites calm and focus, creating a peaceful retreat from the bustle outside. This calmness facilitates meaningful interactions within groups, allowing guests to hear each other easily without the loud background music often found in cafes or bars. Moreover, TAO TEA’s staff is known for their knowledge and friendly approach, often engaging customers with tea stories and brewing advice, enriching the social fabric of the visit. The place’s reputation for great vibes and delicious food complements this setting, providing options to complement your tea with both sweet and savory snacks, ideal for sharing with friends. This combination of peaceful aesthetics, attentive service, and quality food and drink means groups can relax for extended periods, whether for casual meetups, celebrations, or intimate gatherings, enhancing the sense of community and enjoyment.
What makes the tea selection at TAO TEA special for group experiences?
TAO TEA’s tea selection is a standout feature for groups because it offers both breadth and depth, catering to novices and connoisseurs alike. They specialize in organic, whole-leaf teas with an emphasis on authenticity and quality, including rare teas like Pu-erh and single-origin infusions. This means your meetup can become an exploratory tasting session, where attendees can try unique teas not commonly found elsewhere. Multifarious tea styles—ranging from robust black teas to delicate greens and highly aromatic flavored blends—enable guests to compare and contrast, sparking interesting conversations about flavor profiles and brewing methods. The option to try seasonal or limited-edition teas further adds a layer of exclusivity and excitement to your visit, perfect for groups looking to try something new together. The staff’s expertise in suggesting perfect tea and food pairings also helps groups optimize their tasting experience, ensuring every sip complements the flavors of their chosen snacks. This rich variety encourages communal discovery and shared enjoyment, making the tea selection itself a central, memorable part of the meetup.
How does TAO TEA’s food menu complement a social gathering?
The food menu at TAO TEA is thoughtfully designed to complement the tea drinking experience and enhance social gatherings. It features a diverse range of both sweet and savory snacks, allowing groups to share plates and discover flavors together. These offerings provide a balanced palate that pairs seamlessly with different teas, enhancing the taste of both the dishes and the beverages. Having food available encourages longer stays and more relaxed vibes, as groups can comfortably settle in for casual meals or celebratory bites alongside their drinks. The menu’s variety caters to different dietary preferences and group tastes, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Additionally, the snacks are prepared with the same quality focus as the teas, emphasizing fresh, wholesome ingredients, which reflect the brand's commitment to wellness and sustainability. Sharing delicious food alongside fine tea at TAO TEA turns a simple meetup into a full sensory experience, fostering camaraderie and making the occasion more memorable.
Why is TAO TEA an ideal venue for special occasions with friends and family?
TAO TEA’s blend of atmosphere, quality offerings, and attentive service makes it an excellent choice for celebrating special occasions with your loved ones. The tranquil yet stylish interior creates a warm and inviting backdrop that elevates any event, from birthdays and small anniversaries to casual reunions. Its ability to accommodate groups comfortably while maintaining an intimate feel supports both lively celebrations and quiet moments of togetherness. The focus on premium, organic teas and thoughtfully paired food ensures that the occasion feels distinctive and thoughtfully curated, adding a sense of occasion beyond typical dining or cafe experiences. Staff members at TAO TEA are experienced in hosting groups and often go out of their way to accommodate special requests, making guests feel valued and cared for. Additionally, the peaceful environment encourages guests to linger and truly enjoy each other’s company without the pressure to rush. Altogether, TAO TEA provides an elegant yet relaxed setting where the joys of friendship and family can be savored alongside exquisite teas and treats.
How does TAO TEA support wellness and mindfulness in group meetups?
TAO TEA enriches group gatherings by fostering an environment that supports wellness and mindfulness through its products and ambiance. The company’s dedication to organic, whole-leaf teas and sustainable sourcing demonstrates a respect for natural health benefits and environmental responsibility. Drinking tea here is not just about flavor but about slowing down and appreciating the ritual involved—this focus on mindfulness enhances social interactions by grounding groups in the present moment. The place often offers educational sessions on tea culture and wellness practices, allowing groups to learn together about the calming, restorative effects of tea and related traditions, which can strengthen collective relaxation and mental clarity. The peaceful surroundings combined with the ceremonial aspect of tea drinking encourage conscious conversation and thoughtful connection, supporting emotional well-being within the group. This emphasis on holistic experience makes TAO TEA a sanctuary for friends and family seeking meaningful interaction and rejuvenation away from daily stress.
What additional benefits does TAO TEA offer for group meetups?
Beyond the tea and snacks, TAO TEA provides several practical and thoughtful benefits that enhance group meetups. The space often features private or semi-private areas suitable for groups wanting a little privacy during discussions or celebrations. Free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating arrangements make it convenient for groups who may want to mix leisure meetups with light work or planning sessions. The knowledgeable staff offer personalized recommendations and brewing tips that can elevate the group experience, turning a simple drink into a mini tea appreciation session. Many groups also appreciate TAO TEA’s accessibility and location, which are convenient for community gatherings or social events. The venue’s reputation for quality and atmosphere also makes it a dependable choice when planning meetups, reducing the stress of finding the right spot. These additional considerations demonstrate TAO TEA’s commitment to creating a holistic, enjoyable, and hassle-free environment for group connections.