The 5 Best Tea Places in Albuquerque

According to recent research, Albuquerque has over 250 places to enjoy a cup of tea. While there is an abundance of options, not all tea establishments offer the same quality.

In this article, we will explore the top 5 tea spots in the city. We won’t limit ourselves to traditional tea houses. We’ll also highlight regular cafes and even coffee houses where you can enjoy an exceptional cup of tea.

1. The St. James Tearoom

The St. James Tearoom, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, offers a distinctive British teatime experience. Established in 1999 at the corner of Edith and Osuna, the tearoom provides a setting reminiscent of traditional English tea rooms. Guests can enjoy a three-course meal served in private parlors, making it a suitable choice for various gatherings, from small personal celebrations to larger group events.

Central to the St. James Tearoom’s offering is its extensive tea selection. The variety of teas available is carefully curated to complement the menu, which includes both savory items and sweet treats. The staff’s knowledge of tea enhances the dining experience, helping guests navigate the range of options to find teas that suit their palate.

In addition to its tea services, the tearoom hosts public events aimed at fostering community engagement and creativity. These events reflect the establishment’s commitment to being more than just a dining location but also a space for social and artistic gatherings.

The St. James Tearoom also features a gift shop, The St. James Market, where guests can browse a selection of loose leaf teas, tea accessories, and other items like china and gifts.

The St. James Tearoom provides a setting where guests can experience the ritual of tea in a tranquil environment, designed to emphasize the enjoyment of tea and conversation. It stands as a place where the tradition of afternoon tea is both preserved and celebrated.

Pros

• Unique and immersive themed experience.
• Private and comfortable seating areas.
• High-quality, well-prepared food with options for dietary restrictions.
• Knowledgeable and attentive staff.
• Elegant and charming atmosphere.
• Variety in tea and food offerings.
• Special touches for occasions like birthdays.
• Regularly changing themes and menus.
• Offers take-home options and outdoor seating.

Cons

• Need to make reservations far in advance.
• On the expensive side.
• Limited menu options for certain dietary needs (e.g., vegan, non-dairy).

Location: 320 Osuna Rd NE, Ste D, Albuquerque, NM 87107

2. Michael Thomas Coffee Roasters

Michael Thomas Coffee Roasters, established in 2014, is located in the Nob Hill area of Albuquerque. This cafe is known for its hand-roasted coffee, embracing a variety of beans like Nicaraguan and Colombian. Their cold brew coffee is also a popular choice among customers.

The cafe has a notable selection of teas, with chai tea and London fog being among the favorites. Patrons also appreciate the Yerba Matte tea, reflecting the cafe’s commitment to a diverse tea menu. The iced chai tea latte, in particular, has a balanced blend of sweetness and spice.

The atmosphere of Michael Thomas combines a cozy indoor setting with an outdoor courtyard. The interior has a homelike feel, while the courtyard offers a green, tranquil space. This setting caters to customers looking for a place to work, study, or relax.

Staff friendliness and helpfulness contribute positively to the overall experience at the cafe. While the primary focus is on coffee and tea, the cafe also offers a range of breakfast items and pastries for those seeking a light meal or snack.

Michael Thomas Coffee Roasters is a place in Nob Hill where patrons can enjoy hand-roasted coffee, a variety of teas, and a welcoming atmosphere suitable for both work and leisure.

Pros

• Excellent coffee quality and variety, including specialty drinks.
• Friendly and helpful staff.
• Pleasant and cozy atmosphere, both indoors and outdoors.
• Clean and well-maintained premises.

Cons

• Couldn’t find any.

Location: 202 Bryn Mawr SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106

3. O’Bean’s Coffee

O’Bean’s Coffee, situated in the Northeast Heights of Albuquerque, NM, offers a distinct experience for those seeking a local coffee shop with a unique twist. Managed by Tony, a retired USAF pararescue jumper, this family-owned establishment exudes a friendly and genuine atmosphere.

The café’s interior is adorned with Volkswagen-themed decor, providing a quirky and comfortable setting. It features various seating options, including an outdoor patio, which is a popular spot for customers looking to enjoy the scenic views of the Sandia Mountains.

While O’Bean’s is known for its freshly roasted coffee, the café also places a significant emphasis on its tea selection. Catering to a range of preferences, the tea offerings include both traditional and more unique blends, each served with an attention to quality.

In addition to beverages, O’Bean’s Coffee serves a variety of pastries, including donuts sourced from Rise + Roast, among other baked goods. These items complement the drink menu and add to the café’s appeal as a place to relax or meet with friends.

The staff, including Meagan, Shane, Toney, Sara, and Conner, are known for their welcoming and attentive service, contributing to the overall pleasant experience at the café.

O’Bean’s Coffee thus presents itself as a notable spot in Albuquerque for those looking for a warm, community-focused environment to enjoy a good cup of coffee or tea, coupled with a light snack.

Pros

• Friendly and welcoming service.
• High-quality coffee.
• Comfortable seating areas, both indoor and outdoor.
• Unique and pleasant atmosphere/decor.
• Offers a variety of drinks and pastries.

Cons

• Can get busy.

Location: 12760 San Rafael Ave NE, Ste C-2, Albuquerque, NM 87122

4. The Ivy Tearoom

The Ivy Tearoom, situated in Albuquerque, established in 2015, offers an afternoon tea experience that combines tradition with a touch of modernity. Central to its offering is an array of teas, each thoughtfully selected to complement the three-course meal structure of appetizers, savories, and desserts. The variety of teas available caters to a wide range of preferences, and guests are guided on the best ways to enjoy each selection, whether with milk, sugar, or served plain.

While primarily focused on tea, the menu also includes a selection of adult beverages, adding a contemporary twist to the conventional afternoon tea. This inclusion caters to diverse tastes and adds an element of surprise to the traditional tea setting.

The ambiance of The Ivy Tearoom contributes significantly to its overall appeal. The establishment provides private spaces, designed to facilitate comfortable conversations and a sense of intimacy. Each area is decorated with attention to detail, offering an environment that is both inviting and elegant. For those seeking a unique experience, the outdoor heated igloos available in colder months provide an unusual yet charming setting.

Service at The Ivy Tearoom is designed to be efficient yet unobtrusive, ensuring guests’ needs are met with the right balance of attention and privacy.

The Ivy Tearoom in Albuquerque presents a tea experience that blends traditional elements with modern touches, set in a thoughtfully designed space that emphasizes both comfort and elegance.

Pros

• Delicious teas with a good selection.
• Tasty food and snacks.
• Excellent, attentive service.
• Private, aesthetically pleasing spaces and ambiance.
• Unique, enjoyable experiences for special occasions.
• Informative staff on tea pairing.

Cons

• Issues with responsiveness and communication, particularly via email and phone.
• Inadequate tea refills for the duration of the experience.

Location: 8830 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114

5. Snapdragon Tea

Situated in Albuquerque’s Bricklight District, near the University of New Mexico, Snapdragon Tea offers a distinctive tea experience. This cafe caters to a diverse clientele, including families, those with special dietary needs, and individuals looking for a casual setting to socialize.

At its core, Snapdragon Tea focuses on a wide range of teas, predominantly sourced from local providers such as NM Tea Co. The menu features traditional tea blends alongside unique flavors, including the notable chamomile compassion and biscochito tea. For a different twist, the cafe also serves tea lattes and UrbanMama505 Kombucha.

During the weekdays, Snapdragon Tea presents a cafe menu, while weekends are reserved for afternoon tea. The afternoon tea service varies, alternating between seasonal offerings and themed menus. These menus typically include a combination of sweet and savory items, with options like scones, cupcakes, and various savory dishes. The cafe ensures the availability of vegan and gluten-free choices to accommodate different dietary requirements.

The interior of Snapdragon Tea is designed to be welcoming, with an emphasis on creating a comfortable atmosphere. The use of authentic tea cups and plates adds a touch of traditional charm. The cafe also serves as a venue for small private events, such as tea parties and brunches, providing a personalized experience for these gatherings.

Snapdragon Tea is more than just a place to enjoy a cup of tea; it’s a venue that blends a variety of tea options with a relaxed environment, catering to a broad audience in Albuquerque.

Pros

• Excellent service and friendly staff.
• Creative and delicious food with a good mix of sweet and savory options.
• Unique and enjoyable atmosphere.
• Variety of tea options with high-quality taste.
• Offers vegan and gluten-free options.
• Local sourcing of ingredients.
• Suitable for various events and gatherings.

Cons

• High price for the quality of food and tea.
• Inconsistent cooking quality, with some items undercooked.

Location: 115 Harvard Dr SE, Ste 7, Albuquerque, NM 87106