The 5 Best Tea Places in Charlotte

According to recent research, Charlotte has over 350 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 Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary

The Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary, situated in the Ashley Park area near Uptown Charlotte, NC, offers a quiet space focused on organic herbal teas and flavored tisanes. This tea bar is characterized by its simple, contemplative environment, inviting guests to take a break from their busy lives.

At the heart of its offerings is a diverse range of teas. The menu includes detailed descriptions of each tea, from classic black and refreshing green varieties to soothing herbal blends, providing insights into their caffeine content, flavor notes, and potential health benefits. Seasonal tea selections also feature, ensuring a rotating variety for regular visitors.

Accompanying the tea selection are fresh-baked pastries, adding a homely touch to the tea experience. The use of 100% pure essential oils subtly infuses the space with calming scents, contributing to the overall tranquil atmosphere.

The owner, Sherry, brings a personal approach to service, enhancing the welcoming feel of the tea bar. A distinctive feature here is the choice of individual mugs available for guests, allowing a personalized tea-drinking experience.

Besides serving tea and pastries, The Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary functions as a community space for events and gatherings. The absence of Wi-Fi is a deliberate choice, promoting a more disconnected, relaxed atmosphere conducive to conversation and reflection.

The Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary in Charlotte provides a straightforward, peaceful setting where guests can enjoy a variety of teas and pastries, experience a break from digital distractions, and engage in quiet social interactions or personal contemplation.

Pros

• Warm and welcoming atmosphere.
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
• Variety of tea selections.
• Unique and cozy decor.
• Hosts special events and gatherings.
• Offers complimentary pastries and snacks.
• Woman-owned and Black-owned business.
• Offers a selection of mugs for customers to choose from.
• Provides detailed information about each tea.

Cons

• Limited seating space, potentially affecting comfort during activities like playing games.

Location: 2326 Arty Ave, Charlotte, NC 28208

2. Pepperbox Doughnuts and Coffee

Pepperbox Doughnuts and Coffee is a cafe that offers a selection of vegan doughnuts and a variety of teas. The doughnuts here are known for their vegan recipes, featuring a range of flavors such as lemon poppy, olive oil and tangerine, and mango passionfruit habanero. These doughnuts are appreciated by both vegans and non-vegans for their flavor and texture.

Teas are a notable part of the menu at Pepperbox. The selection includes options like bubbly Jasmine tea, known for its sweetness, and Golden Chai, a popular choice among milk tea lovers. Other unique offerings include almond milk teas with saffron, catering to those looking for something different from the usual tea flavors.

The cafe operates mainly as a counter-service establishment with limited indoor seating. This setup makes it suitable for quick visits or takeaway orders. The staff at Pepperbox are known for being informative, often sharing their recommendations with customers.

While the cafe has garnered attention for its vegan doughnuts and tea selection, it’s also recognized for its location in a lively part of Charlotte, making it a convenient stop for those in the area. Pepperbox Doughnuts and Coffee is a straightforward option for those seeking vegan doughnut choices and a range of tea flavors in Charlotte.

Pros

• Delicious and unique flavors.
• Vegan options that are indistinguishable from non-vegan choices in terms of flavor.
• High-quality, fluffy, and soft dough in the donuts.
• Friendly and helpful staff.
• Creative and diverse menu offering a variety of donuts and beverages.

Cons

• Limited seating available in the shop.

Location: 101 W Worthington Ave, Ste 150, Charlotte, NC 28203

3. Afternoon Tea at The Ballantyne

Afternoon Tea at The Ballantyne, situated in Charlotte’s commercial district, provides a traditional tea experience in a quiet section of the hotel’s main lobby. This setting offers a more subdued and intimate atmosphere for guests.

The centerpiece of this tea service is its diverse range of teas. Patrons have a selection that includes classic options like Earl Grey, alongside unique blends, such as a special Parisian variety. The teas are served in elegant china, adding a formal touch to the experience.

Accompanying the tea are various cakes and pastries, each designed to complement the flavors of the teas. The attentive staff is available to assist with selections and answer any questions, enhancing the overall experience with their service.

The ambiance of Afternoon Tea at The Ballantyne is defined by its understated elegance, making it suitable for those seeking a traditional tea service. The cost reflects the setting and quality of the tea and accompanying items.

This tea service, while positioned at a higher price point, offers a classic experience in a convenient Charlotte location, appealing to those interested in a traditional afternoon tea setting.

Pros

• Tasty afternoon tea and food.
• Attentive and pleasant staff.
• Classy hotel ambiance and decor.

Cons

• Long wait times.

Location: 10000 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28277

4. Uptown Tea Shop

Uptown Tea Shop, situated in Waxhaw, North Carolina, has established itself since 2017 as a destination for tea lovers. The shop boasts a diverse collection of over 150 types of premium loose leaf teas. These include a variety of categories such as Organic, Black, Green, White, Oolong, Rooibos, Herbal/Tisane, Connoisseur, Caffeine Free, and Decaffeinated options. Their House Blend Chai is a distinctive offering among these selections.

The shop facilitates a hands-on approach for customers, providing sample jars for each tea type. This allows visitors to engage directly with the teas through sight and smell before choosing. For those wanting to enjoy their tea immediately, the shop also brews fresh hot or iced cups to go.

In addition to the teas, Uptown Tea Shop is equipped with knowledgeable staff who assist customers in navigating the extensive tea collection and provide insights into tea preparation. The shop also caters to tea preparation needs at home by offering a range of accessories, including teapots, strainers, tea bags, mugs, and travel mugs.

Uptown Tea Shop hosts a variety of events that add to its community appeal. Their High Tea events, complemented by artworks from the Eight Legs Gallery, feature a selection of snacks served alongside a chosen tea. Additionally, the Tea Tasting events and various Art and Tea classes offer interactive experiences for those interested in deepening their understanding and enjoyment of tea.

Overall, Uptown Tea Shop in Waxhaw presents itself as a comprehensive spot for tea enthusiasts, providing a wide array of teas and a setting that encourages exploration and enjoyment of the tea experience.

Pros

• Wide variety of teas.
• High-quality customer service.
• Delicious food.
• Knowledgeable and helpful staff.
• Elegant and unique atmosphere.

Cons

• Couldn’t find any.

Location: 310 ES Main St, Waxhaw, NC 28173

5. French Market Cafe & Gourmet Shop

The French Market Cafe & Gourmet Shop, established in 2010 and located in the Shops on the Green in Cornelius, North Carolina, offers a menu influenced by French culinary traditions. The cafe is known for its extensive tea selection, appealing to a variety of palates with a range of aromatic blends.

In addition to teas, the cafe serves breakfast and lunch options, including freshly baked pastries, desserts, quiches, soups, salads, and sandwiches. The quiches and sandwiches, in particular, are prepared with a nod to French flavors. Patrons can also find an assortment of soups and salads made from fresh ingredients.

Beyond its food offerings, the French Market Cafe & Gourmet Shop includes a retail section where customers can browse gourmet foods, fine chocolates, and gifts. This aspect of the cafe adds a diverse experience for visitors looking to explore more than just a meal.

The space of the cafe, while quaint and imbued with a certain charm, has been noted for its limited accessibility in certain areas. This might pose a challenge for guests with mobility needs. Those considering a visit, especially those who might require more accessible seating, are advised to contact the cafe in advance.

Reservations are suggested for those planning to dine at the cafe, as it can get busy, particularly during peak hours. The atmosphere of the French Market Cafe & Gourmet Shop is more on the traditional side, reflecting its French inspiration and creating a unique experience for its guests in Cornelius.

Pros

• High-quality French onion soup, sandwiches, and salads.
• An impressive selection of teas.
• Friendly and accommodating service.

Cons

• The space is cramped and challenging to navigate, particularly for those with mobility aids.
• The cost, especially for high tea services, is relatively high.
• Portion sizes are small.
• Automatic gratuity is added to the bill.

Location: 20920 Torrence Chapel Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031