The 6 Best Tea Places in Columbus, OH

According to recent research, Columbus has over 290 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 6 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. Cambridge Tea House

Cambridge Tea House, situated in Marble Cliff near Upper Arlington and Grandview, Ohio, is a tea-centric establishment known for its variety of teas and accompanying food offerings. The atmosphere of the tea house has an old-world charm, providing a relaxed setting suitable for leisurely visits.

The tea selection is a central feature of Cambridge Tea House, offering a range of both traditional and unique flavors. Each tea is prepared with care, aiming to highlight its distinct characteristics. Alongside the tea, the cafe serves an afternoon tea service that includes an assortment of sandwiches, scones, and pastries. The scones, such as the cream scone and cranberry orange, are particularly notable for their taste and texture.

Beyond the tea services, the tea house also has a regular breakfast and lunch menu. A notable item from the menu is the homemade tea bread. The menu also features seasonal specials and various desserts, like lemon tarts and scones with unique flavors.

Due to the limited space inside the cafe and its popularity, making a reservation is often recommended, though the staff strives to accommodate walk-in guests when possible. The service at Cambridge Tea House is friendly and attentive, with staff members available to offer recommendations.

Cambridge Tea House in Marble Cliff offers a range of teas and food in a setting that emphasizes a relaxed and traditional tea experience. It’s a suitable choice for those seeking a quiet spot for tea and a meal in a quaint, comfortable environment.

Pros

• Delicious food and tea.
• Excellent service and friendly staff.
• Charming and cozy ambiance.
• Good variety of menu options.
• Suitable for groups and special occasions.

Cons

• Space is small and can feel cramped.
• Limited parking.
• Noise level can be high when busy.

Location: 1885 W 5th Ave, Marble Cliff, OH 43212

2. Zen Cha Tea Salon

ZenCha Tea Salon, established in 2002 in the Short North district of Columbus, Ohio, presents itself as a unique venue for tea enthusiasts. Its core mission is to offer a cultural experience that emphasizes the art of international tea traditions, health consciousness, and leisurely quality time.

The salon’s menu is predominantly focused on a diverse range of teas sourced from nine different global regions. This selection allows visitors to explore flavors spanning from the aromatic chais of India to the fruity notes of Germany’s Strawberry Valley tea and the spiced nuances of Middle Eastern cinnamon orange tea. Additionally, ZenCha provides a variety of bubble tea options.

Complementing its tea assortment, ZenCha also serves tea-infused desserts, a lunch menu, and a weekend brunch. The food options, designed to pair with the teas, include items like chai-infused waffles and lavender blueberry pancakes, integrating tea flavors into classic dishes.

The ambiance of ZenCha Tea Salon aligns with its culinary offerings. It features a warm, welcoming environment, aiming to create a comfortable space for guests. The staff, known for their knowledge about tea, assists guests in navigating the extensive tea menu and making informed choices about food pairings.

While ZenCha places a strong emphasis on tea, it also seeks to provide a holistic cultural experience. This approach is evident in various aspects of the salon, including its decor and service. ZenCha Tea Salon thus stands as a notable spot in Columbus for those looking to enjoy a diverse range of teas in a setting that values the cultural and leisurely aspects of tea drinking.

Pros

• Extensive tea selection
• Delicious food, especially scones, shrimp and grits, and pancakes
• Pleasant atmosphere
• Knowledgeable staff
• Freshly made items
• Good quality tea

Cons

• Slow service
• Long wait times for food and drinks

Location: 982 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201

3. Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee

Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee offers a New Orleans culinary experience with its primary focus on authentic hot beignets. This family-owned business emphasizes traditional preparation methods, bringing a piece of New Orleans culture to the city.

The cafe’s menu extends beyond beignets, featuring a range of breakfast items, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The commitment to homemade, scratch-made products is evident in the quality of their offerings.

Teas are a notable aspect of the menu at Way Down Yonder. Patrons have a selection of teas to choose from, ranging from classic black to fragrant herbal varieties. These teas are designed to complement the cafe’s food offerings.

In addition to teas, the cafe has its own signature house coffee. This coffee appeals to those who appreciate a robust and flavorful brew and is often paired with the cafe’s beignets or breakfast dishes.

The staff at Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee are knowledgeable about the New Orleans food culture, contributing to the cafe’s authentic atmosphere. The service is excellent, and the cafe’s environment reflects the unique charm of its New Orleans roots.

Way Down Yonder offers a taste of New Orleans in Columbus, with its focus on beignets, breakfast items, teas, and coffee. It’s a place where visitors can experience a bit of New Orleans culture and cuisine.

Pros

• Delicious and high-quality beignets.
• Friendly and excellent service.
• Charming and pleasant ambiance/decor.
• Generous portion sizes.
• Freshness of food.

Cons

• Couldn’t find any.

Location: 386 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215

4. Mozart’s

Located in the Clintonville neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio, Mozart’s offers a distinctive experience with its focus on Austrian cuisine and pastry, set against a backdrop of live classical piano music. Established in 1995 by Anand and Doris Saha, the cafe has grown from a European pastry shop into a restaurant and catering facility, known for its authentic European flair.

At Mozart’s, the menu features a variety of teas, thoughtfully curated to complement the assortment of pastries and savory items available. The tea service is a notable aspect of the cafe, often enjoyed as part of their high tea offering, which includes scones, canapés, and miniature desserts.

The interior of Mozart’s reflects a European-inspired decor, with live piano music contributing to the ambiance. This setting provides a conducive environment for enjoying meals, ranging from brunch on the patio to events in their dedicated spaces.

Mozart’s menu extends beyond teas to include Austrian specialties and a selection of pastries, showcasing the culinary skills and background of its founders. The cafe has become a part of the Clintonville community, offering a space where food, music, and European culture converge. Visitors can expect an experience that goes beyond dining, in an atmosphere that blends culinary arts with a cultural touch.

Pros

• Excellent service and staff.
• High-quality food, especially pastries, scones, and desserts.
• Good ambiance, including music and elegant setting.
• Suitable for special events and parties with great organization.
• Offers a variety of tea selections and afternoon tea experiences.

Cons

• Some may consider the atmosphere outdated or dark.

Location: 4784 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214

5. Cafe de Nook

Cafe de Nook, opened in 2015, is a Parisian-style coffee shop situated in Downtown Columbus, close to the Columbus Commons. This establishment offers a setting reminiscent of 1920s Paris, attracting both locals and visitors alike.

Upon entering, guests are greeted by a decor that combines elements of Parisian charm with a cozy, somewhat eclectic ambiance. The cafe provides a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, catering to those looking for a quiet corner in the city or an outdoor spot to enjoy the urban environment.

The menu at Cafe de Nook features a wide selection of teas, emphasizing variety and quality. From traditional favorites to more unique blends, the tea offerings are a central aspect of the cafe’s appeal. Additionally, the cafe serves a range of coffee drinks, including lattes and cold brews, prepared by experienced baristas.

Aside from beverages, Cafe de Nook also offers a small range of baked goods and snacks. These items, though not the main focus, complement the drink selections. The pastries, in particular, are a popular choice among patrons.

While the cafe is conveniently located in Downtown Columbus, its setting in the back of an office building gives it a somewhat hidden aspect, adding to its appeal as a peaceful retreat. The atmosphere is generally welcoming, with staff known for their friendly demeanor.

Cafe de Nook caters to a variety of visitors, from those looking for a place to work outside of the office to individuals seeking a casual setting for coffee or tea. Its central location in Columbus makes it a practical choice for both impromptu visits and planned meetings.

Pros

• Friendly and welcoming staff.
• Unique and cozy atmosphere with a Parisian theme.
• Wide variety of coffee and tea options.
• Reliable Wi-Fi, suitable for work or study.
• High-quality coffee and tea.

Cons

• Location can be hard to find, being hidden or in a less obvious spot.

Location: 175 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215

6. Third Way Cafe

Third Way Cafe, located in the Hilltop area of Columbus, OH, offers a variety of beverages, with a notable focus on teas. Patrons often appreciate the quality of their matcha tea and the chai tea latte, known for its spicy flavor profile. The cafe presents a relaxed and casual atmosphere, suitable for working or unwinding. It features ample indoor seating along with a few outdoor tables.

The range of drinks extends beyond teas to include a variety of coffee options. The cafe serves both traditional coffee drinks and more unique items like the sugar cookie iced coffee. Their coffee, sourced from local roasters, caters to diverse tastes.

The staff at Third Way Cafe are known for being approachable and knowledgeable about their menu. The cafe’s interior is decorated with local art, and they have a dog-friendly policy, contributing to a community-focused environment.

Food options at Third Way Cafe are somewhat limited but include selections like chai muffins and other pastries, intended to pair well with their beverages. The cafe has established itself as a part of the local scene in Columbus, offering a space for both regulars and new visitors.

Pros

• Friendly and personable staff.
• Wide variety of drink options.
• Comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
• Local community involvement and support.
• Quality and taste of coffee.

Cons

• Limited menu and food options.
• Limited parking availability.

Location: 3059 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43204