I have had an odd relationship with Evanston, a suburb just north of Chicago (and home to Northwestern University), since my life’s beginning. I was born here almost forty years ago (and adopted through the Cradle Society), but never actually lived here until I was 24 and came to attend Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. I left for Chicago at the age of 28 but recently came back “home” to live: And I am enjoying every minute of it!
Especially now that I have discovered Dream About Tea.
Dream About Tea is a serious (wide selection of teas and NO coffee available) yet friendly (the proprietors are a delight and are quite willing to educate folks about their teas) Chinese tearoom and tea shop. High quality tea, along with kind and knowledgeable service, make this place a primo discovery. Dozens of teas are on display, and the owners, Hong Wu and Daquan Yao, are happy to help you pick the right one. (As those who follow me on Twitter or Plurk know, I am very fond of pu-erh teas, and they have a marvelous selection.)
(Their Monkey Picked oolong, by the way, is incredibly good. Viewing the beautiful leaves unfurl whilst steeping is a lovely bonus!)
The tearoom itself is super-casual and comfortable: The decor is Chinese, and there are several tables, plus a comfortable couch, in which to sit and enjoy your tea. There is plenty of teaware available as well, so fun to look at! Owner Hong Wu also tells me that they are going to start regular tea tastings on Saturdays: If you are interested in attending, stop in and give them your email address.
Establishment Type: Tea Room (they also do mail order)
Location: Evanston, IL (just north of Chicago)
Retail Tea: Yes.
Atmosphere: Asian theme. Casual. Counter service: Hot tea is available both to-go and to drink in-house.
Product Mix: Teas and tisanes, pre-made sushi, Chinese cakes, teaware (Asian), tea smoked hard-boiled eggs.
Best Bets: Monkey picked oolong, black bean cakes, any of their pu-erh teas.
Store Hours: Tue & Wed: 9am-7:00pm; Thu, Fri & Sat: 11am-7pm; Sun: 12pm-6pm; Mon: Closed
Address: 1011 Davis Street, Evanston, IL 60201
Phone: (847) 864-7464
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