25 Specialty Tea Houses

Especially in the east, tea houses not only serve tea, but are also an important center for social interaction. While those in North America might be more likely to hang out in a cafe or a bar, tea houses imply a heightened sense of sophistication. Sometimes referred to as a tea room, these boutique establishments offer artisan dining experiences.

Tea houses are often an excellent example of architecture or interior design. As with most restaurants, ambiance is an important part of the service. This can be seen with fairy tale tree houses located in Hokuto City, Japan. Other parlors seek to enhance the perception of luxury, from designer tea parties to gentlemanly tea experiences. There is even room for eco-practices in this space, whether it's reflected in the architecture or a form of biomass bartering.