For travelers in Buenos Aires craving a strong cup of tea we have good news and bad news. Amongst foreigners in Buenos Aires, the prevailing descriptor for teas purchased from the neighborhood tiendas is often weak, in both selection and flavor. The good news is that high-quality tea does exist in Buenos Aires if you know where to go.
During the huge wave of European immigration in the 19th century British immigrants brought over their custom of high tea. Over the years, tea was replaced with the bitter tea-like infusion mate, scones with facturas, finger sandwiches with ham tostados and a healthy dose of dulce de leche was added to everything. And thus, the beloved merienda was born. Although mate may be the prevailing drink of choice for the merienda, many Argentines do prefer enjoying a tea you don’t need a metal straw to drink. Which, lucky for us means good selection of national and imported specialty teas available in Buenos Aires.
Here are our five selections for the tast-tea-est teas in Buenos Aires.
Tealosophy
Created by the local tea giant, Ines Berton, Tealosophy is high on the list of excellence. This line of teas can be find in exclusive gourmet shops throughout Buenos Aires as well as in their retail space at the Alvear Palace Hotel. This brand offers traditional teas as well as custom house blends like their “green calm.” A mix of green and chamomile tea, lemon verbena, and rose, the blend brews a delicious and tranquil cup of tea.
For the full experience head to one of their tea houses. The stand-out of the three locations is Palermo, which despite being located in one of the most buzzing parts of town, offers an oasis from the hustle and bustle. Tucked down a tiny passage off Gorriti, this quaint little bungalow keeps over 100 teas on stock along with collection of gorgeous ceramic and iron kettles to browse.
Gato Negro
The undisputed forefather of the modern Buenos Aires tea scene, Gato Negro originated as a spice business in 1928. They’ve since shifted their focus to tea, but have continued producing spices which fill this historical tea house with delicious and cozy aromas. Their extensive list of teas and spices are available online, but their delightfully cozy cafe is worth a visit. The vaulted ceilings, grand mahogany furnishings, elegant chandeliers and retro black and white tiles will take you back in time.
As a bonus, their packaging, which features their signature black cat, makes for a handsome gift for tea-lovers.
Pei Chen Tea Palace
Situated on the corner of Olazabál and Cuidad de Paz, Pei Chen is tucked in the fringes of Barrio Chino. Pei Chen Tea Palace is a traditional Taiwanese tea shop that offers an authentic selection of teas from the far East. The owners themselves travel to China every year to hand select hundreds of teas they offer. And, for those who want to immerse themselves further, Pei Chen also frequently put on events such as classes with a tea sommelier, tastings and traditional tea ceremonies. Overall, a great spot for anyone looking for a more exotic range of teas, or unique cultural experience.
Tehani
Nested in a leafy residential street in Belgrano just 10 blocks away from Pei Chen, Tehani is the newcomer to the Buenos Aires tea scene. Tehani is a feminine African name that means celebration, which epitomizes their philosophy of celebrating life’s simple pleasures, such as a steaming cup of tea. Cueva Negro Cueva de Café, Tostado and a handful of cafes in Buenos Aires serve their teas. Or to browse their selection of high end loose-leaf teas, blends, infusions and accessories head to their shop in Belgrano.
Inti Zen
The first to introduce Chai to Argentina, Inti Zen is a commercial gourmet brand found readily in dietéticas and specialty markets. One of the more affordable specialty teas in Buenos Aires, Inti Zen’s line in made up of signature blends. Both the Amazonia Mango, a summery blend of black tea, mango, papaya and peach, and the Patagonia Bee, a vanilla honey tea are good choices for anyone who prefers a sweet and flavorful tea.
