I was looking for a nice, chill place near home where I could bring my cribbage board and have tea. I googled a few places and found a couple of breweries that looked fun, but then I remembered I had walked by this mysterious place in downtown Hopkins before and never went in. You wouldn't know it was there because there is no sign that says 'Smile Tea Bar,' but there is a bright neon sign of a smiley face on the side of the building. As we walked in there was a hallway with more neon signs that lead to a staircase that goes down to the tea bar. At this point I was intrigued and excited to see what was on the other side of this stairwell.
We went downstairs and the lighting was low and purple. There were board games on one wall and a collection of vinyl records on the other. It seemed like just the chill, relaxing place we were looking for to play cribbage. One of the guys working behind the bar came up to us right away and greeted us, told us about the kinds of teas they have and was super friendly and welcoming. They have couches by a fireplace, bar seating and tables, but because there was a trivia game going on there weren't any open spots. The friendly guy who originally greeted us pulled up a table and chairs in an open space for my friend and I so we could have our tea and play our game. I found out that they are actually holding a cribbage tournament this weekend. I do wish that these events were promoted on the website instead of spread by word of mouth, but I guess that adds to the mystery of it all.
I had the red iced tea which is supposed to help with relaxation and pain relief. I would describe it as a combination of kombucha and a smooth iced tea. I wish I would've gotten a picture of the tea but I was so taken by the ambiance and just fully enjoying the experience. I don't know what they put in their drinks, but everyone who was in the tea bar seemed super friendly and happy to be there. There was even a dog walking around at one point taking in all the pets and love. I would definitely recommend this speakeasy type joint to anyone who wants to experience a trippy, alcohol free bar atmosphere with good, friendly people. read more