I love tea. In fact, I like to think of myself as a tea connoisseur. One of my favorite things about tea is the way that it can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Iced tea can be enjoyed on a hot afternoon, which is something I do often since I live in Florida. A nice hot tea is something I also love to make after a long day, a nice relaxing break. However, my absolute favorite part of drinking tea is the adventures I go on trying to find my new favorite. Tea is not only a beverage but a social experience that you can enjoy with friends. A wonderful experience at a tea shop is just as important as the flavor. Listed below are some of my favorite tea shops in the Tampa area.
- Mojo Books & Records
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Right next to campus, Mojo is a staple for any local tea fan. As suggested by the name, Mojo Books & Records can be a hangout spot for hours, having a large selection of books, records, CDs, and more. In fact, before the pandemic, this shop also held small concerts, creating an intimate setting with the artist. Mojo has a wide range of teas and coffee, having options for everyone to enjoy. Also, due to the proximity to USF, on Wednesdays Mojo has a 15% off drinks discount for USF students. My personal favorite tea from Mojo is their Hibiscus Berry tea. Mojo Books & Records is located at 2540 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33612.
- The Blind Tiger Café
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The Blind Tiger Café is a local treat that has expanded all around the Tampa area. The location I frequent the most is in Ybor. The Blind Tiger provides a chill atmosphere to enjoy tea, coffee, and a limited menu of pastries and sandwiches. I also especially love the music they play; one of the last times I went, I couldn’t leave, because they kept playing my favorite songs! My favorites from Blind Tiger are the Blackberry Royale and the Strawberry Mango. The Blind Tiger Ybor location is at 1901 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605.
- Blush Tea and Coffee
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Located in St. Pete, Blush Tea and Coffee is in an unassuming plaza. However, when walking into the shop, you are immediately greeted by an extensive wall of tea containers. Additionally, the location also offers coffee, tea soda, and light snacks, like cookies. Blush is a beautiful shop, featuring local artists’ works (like earrings) and a large mural with their logo. In fact, Blush is so dedicated to its customer’s needs that teas can also be ordered online, if necessary. My favorites from Blush include the Mango Tango and Paper Airplanes. Blush Tea and Coffee is located at 2382 Dr. M.L.K. Jr St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704.
- Casa di Mazzaro
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As a part of the popular Mazzaro’s Italian Market, Casa di Mazzaro could easily be overlooked. However, I consider Casa di Mazzaro a hidden gem, the tea counter located in the back of the store. While the store does not offer to make drinks, some of my favorite loose teas can be found at Casa di Mazzaro. A stop here could easily be paired with getting authentic Italian food at the main location in the same plaza. My favorite teas from Casa di Mazzaro include the Parachiso Peach and Bingo Blueberry. Casa di Mazzaro is located at 3001 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713.