Lesson learned... Listen to great recommendations when received. I have Charlie S to thank for this weeks wonderful discovery (and Ad T. on accompanying me on my first Char Wallah adventure).
This little tea shop is hidden away in the Pavilions Centre on High Street in Central Birmingham. When I say hidden, I mean hidden. Although it was listed on the store directory, I still had to walk around the correct floor a couple of times to find it. Here's a hint if you fancy a visit, head to the correct floor (down the teeny tiny escalators) and walk to the back of the centre (as if you are heading to Marks and Spencers) and it's on the left hand side.
It's a gorgeous little vintage looking place on the outside, but it doesn't begin to portray the wonders within. As a top "pro tip" there is ZERO internet connection in the store (and they have a check in offer), so check in as you get into the pallasades and keep it on your phone to claim 10% off anything in store. Nifty, ay!
Upon entering, I was immediately struck with an atmosphere of calm and delicacy. The shop is wonderfully decorated with different kinds of tea adoring the walls, all sorts of tea making paraphernalia to purchase (Mothers day is in March, remember) and a small selection of tables and chairs to sit and while away some time in this relaxing environment.
You can have a tester to "try before you buy", but I knew what I was having straight away. After being presented with a very impressive menu and a secondary menu with descriptions of all of the tea's on offer, I was immediately drawn to the black chai (being one of my favorites).
After ordering, I went back to my seat and waited for the big reveal. Within a couple of minutes the lovely lady (who I *think* was the owner), came and lit a small tealight underneath a strange metal contraption. Shortly after that, I was presented with what looked like a chemistry set! A beautiful glass tea pot, a timer, a small china teacup and a strainer.
Once everything was set down (and the timer was turned), I was asked "Have you been here before?", "Why no, no I haven't. But this all looks very exciting!" I said. It was then explained to me to wait for the full 5 minutes for the tea to brew properly before removing the internal bit of the teapot (with the loose leaf in it) and place it into the teapot lid (to prevent over brewing).
What can I say? It was the freshest, most delicious Chai I have ever had. Add that to great company courtesy of Ad and a total cost of £5.80 for two huge teapots (easily 5 cups) and this place is a winner. It loses a star as there is NO internet (would be worth them looking into WiFi), but that being said; then it might take away from the relaxing atmosphere.
If you haven't been yet, JUST GO! You Won't regret it. read more