Looking for a peaceful escape in the bustling heart of New York City? Cha-An Tea House is a hidden gem located at 230 E 9th St, offering a calming, authentic high tea experience. Whether you're a tea connoisseur or someone looking for a serene afternoon, this is the perfect spot for an afternoon tea adventure. From the extensive tea list to the delicious Japanese-inspired sweets and snacks, Cha-An offers something unique for everyone. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about enjoying high tea at this charming tea house.
What is High Tea at Cha-An?
Before we get into the details, let’s clarify what “high tea” means at Cha-An. In many places, high tea is often mistaken for afternoon tea (or "low tea"), which traditionally involves lighter fare like sandwiches, scones, and sweets served with a variety of teas. While Cha-An's tea service leans more toward this afternoon tea concept, they elevate it with a Japanese twist, serving traditional Japanese sweets, savory snacks, and carefully brewed teas in a peaceful and authentic setting.
The Setting: A Cozy, Zen Escape
When you step into Cha-An, you'll feel like you've been transported out of the city. The ambiance is peaceful, with minimalist decor and soft lighting that creates a cozy, zen-like vibe. Whether you’re seated indoors or outside, the tea house exudes a calming atmosphere perfect for a quiet afternoon alone or a small, intimate gathering with friends.
For indoor seating, the wooden tables and dimly lit space make it a great spot to unwind. If you prefer being outside, their outdoor seating offers fresh air while still being tucked away from the noise of the city. This balance of intimacy and tranquility makes Cha-An a unique haven for tea lovers.
The Tea Selection: More Than Just Your Regular Cup
Cha-An boasts an extensive tea list with options for everyone. Whether you like green teas, black teas, or something herbal, you're sure to find something that suits your mood.
Here’s a look at some tea options you’ll find:
- Matcha: For fans of strong, earthy flavors, the matcha at Cha-An is unbeatable. It’s rich, frothy, and always served fresh.
- Genmaicha: A wonderful blend of green tea and roasted brown rice, this tea offers a toasty, comforting flavor.
- Hojicha: Another roasted green tea option, Hojicha is mild, nutty, and perfect if you’re looking for something low in caffeine.
- Sencha: A traditional Japanese green tea that’s smooth and grassy, perfect for tea purists.
- Flavored Teas: For those who like a little something extra, Cha-An also offers a range of fruity and floral teas like jasmine, rose, and peach oolong.
Every tea is served with care, brewed to perfection. You can even participate in a formal tea ceremony where you'll get a deeper appreciation of the art of tea-making, which is a rare treat in NYC.
The Food: A Fusion of Sweet and Savory
High tea at Cha-An isn’t just about tea—it’s also about the beautifully crafted snacks and sweets that come with it. Here, you’ll find a mix of traditional Japanese desserts (called wagashi) and savory bites that pair perfectly with your tea.
Sweet Selections:
- Dorayaki: These fluffy pancakes are stuffed with sweet red bean paste and are a must-try.
- Mochi: Soft, chewy, and lightly sweetened, these rice cakes come in different flavors like matcha and black sesame.
- Matcha Tiramisu: A fusion of Italian and Japanese flavors, this dessert is rich but not overly sweet, with a distinct matcha flavor.
- Anmitsu: A traditional Japanese dessert featuring agar jelly, sweet red beans, and a variety of fruits topped with syrup.
Savory Bites:
- Onigiri: Rice balls wrapped in seaweed, filled with different ingredients like pickled plum or salmon.
- Tamago Sandwiches: Simple yet delicious, these egg sandwiches are fluffy and melt-in-your-mouth good.
- Miso Soup: A light, warming broth that's perfect to sip on alongside your tea.
These items are served à la carte, allowing you to curate your ideal high tea spread. Whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer something savory, there’s something for everyone.
What to Expect from the Service
Cha-An offers friendly, thoughtful service that enhances the overall experience. The staff is knowledgeable about the teas and is more than happy to help you choose one based on your tastes or answer any questions about the menu.
It’s worth noting that the tea house does accept reservations, which is ideal if you’re planning a special outing or simply want to ensure you get a spot during peak hours. With seating options available both indoors and outdoors, you can choose the vibe that best fits your mood for the day.
Prices: What to Budget For
Tea at Cha-An is moderately priced, especially for the quality of both the tea and the food. You can expect to spend around $20 to $30 per person, depending on how many snacks and sweets you decide to order. Considering the experience, this price point is pretty reasonable, especially in NYC.
If you’re opting for the formal tea ceremony, the price will be a bit higher, but it’s definitely worth it for those looking to dive deeper into the traditional aspects of tea service.
How to Get There and What to Expect
Located in the East Village, Cha-An is easy to get to from most parts of the city. Just a quick subway ride away, it’s a convenient spot for locals and tourists alike.
Here’s the important info to keep in mind:
- Address: 230 E 9th St, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10003
- Phone: (212) 228-8030
- Opening Hours:
- Monday: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday & Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Reservations: Available, and recommended for weekends.
- Price: Moderate, around $20-30 per person.
FAQs About High Tea at Cha-An
Can I make a reservation?
Yes, Cha-An takes reservations, especially during busy times like weekends.
Do they offer gluten-free options?
While Cha-An has some naturally gluten-free options, it’s best to call ahead and confirm with the staff.
Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, you can enjoy your tea outside if you prefer an al fresco experience.
Is Cha-An family-friendly?
Absolutely! The calm atmosphere makes it a great spot for families, though children might not fully appreciate the subtle flavors of the teas.
What’s the best tea to order for first-timers?
If you’re new to Japanese teas, try the matcha or genmaicha for a full-flavored introduction.
Wrapping Up Your High Tea Experience
Bottom line? A visit to Cha-An is about more than just tea—it’s about the experience. Whether you’re a local looking for a quiet escape or a tourist wanting to dive into a unique part of New York’s food culture, Cha-An delivers a relaxing and memorable high tea experience. With its serene atmosphere, high-quality teas, and delicious sweets and snacks, it’s the perfect place to unwind and indulge in some much-needed “me time.”
