Forget coffee, tea is the new it-drink
Although tea is usually seen as a homely drink which can be used to cure all that ails, it appears the world's second most popular drink is getting a makeover.
Where coffee was once seen as the fashionista's hot drink of choice, the rise of trendy tea rooms and bars have helped modernise the trusty leaf.
While teashops such as Betty's are still attracting people looking for traditional afternoon tea, complete with scones and saucers, other establishments such as Cha Cha Cha are attempting to entice younger consumers. The Birmingham-based tea lounge offers leaves sourced from all over the world and allows shoppers to enjoy their cuppa in a modern setting.
Speaking to Reuters, Jutta Waldeck, a tea expert who has been in the industry for over a decade and works as a consultant for Singapore-based lifestyle brand Naturalis, said: "The days of tea appreciation are over, now it's all about chilling out with a tea cocktail."
"We need to keep innovating tea so that it remains relevant to the lifestyles of the younger generation," she added.
Take action
- Add your own reviews to your favourite UK tea shop listings on toptable.com
- Visit the Teaviews tea review website
- For a light-hearted look at cafes in the capital, read the London Review of Breakfasts
The drink has also gained popularity thanks to its reputed health benefits, with the United Kingdom Tea Council stating that the hot beverage can reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
It can also help you get ahead in work, according to new research. Fairtrade tea firm Clipper found that just over half of UK workers regularly make their boss a cup of tea in the hope of getting in their good books.
SIDEWAYS News for fresh perspectives
