In 2015, Luv Tea started as a wholesaler of tournament-grade and award-winning teas from A-Li-Shan in Taiwan. Soon after, Tea Master Jaesy Wang opened the Luv Tea showroom and brought a little slice of zen to the West Village. Luv Tea is a quaint tea emporium that serves seasonal blends of high-grade teas. The specialty of the house is exclusive Taiwanese tea, from their own farms, grown harvested and roasted by local artisans. Since its opening, the cozy tea shop has amassed a loyal group of regulars, who often stop by to enjoy a relaxed unhurried beverage. Unlike the usual coffee shop, Luv Tea promotes relaxation. Their laid back meditative vibe provides an escape from the hustle of city living. Unlike the local franchise shop, Luv Tea doesn’t just offer beverages they offer a restorative experience that is meant to be savored. As tea lovers in need of a break, we were thrilled to visit and learn more.
Their showroom is a stark white oasis of minimalist furnishings and soft music. Once you enter, an overwhelming sense of calm engulfs you are as the aroma of warm tea entices. Behind the counter is Wang’s business partner and apprentice Wan Di, steeping teas and assisting regulars. Once we are invited to sit at the counter, the ritualistic steeping and pouring of tea begin. Luv Tea’s carefully crafted menu selections include several milk teas, seasonal iced teas and an assortment of tasty treats. To accompany their drink selections, Chef Miwa Oizumi creates beautiful pastries, including decadent Japanese style macaroons. After a brief consultation with Wan, we left our senses in his capable hands and prepared for an expert tasting. Wan is a patient teacher and tea expert who enjoys sharing his extensive knowledge. He spent our session offering anecdotes between pours and slowly enriching our understanding of the history, production, and levels of quality in Taiwanese Teas.
Wan also gets to share his knowledge with a broader audience as he teaches classes in the showroom. The classes range from the history of tea to advanced techniques including Bubble tea production. Wan is a fascinating teacher, recalling complex information whilst in constant motion. His fluid movements are hypnotic as he takes great care in ensuring the best tea experience. We spent just under two hours with Wan and we won’t drink tea the same. We know too much to ever go back to basic tea bags. In the short time we spent at Luv Tea, we gained a whole new appreciation for tea in its many forms. To have your own experience visit their location at 37A Bedford Street, New York, NY 10014. Luv Tea is closed on Mondays but is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am to 8pm. Be sure to visit Luv-Tea.com, for more information.
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