The Triangle

Issue date: 12/5/08 Section: Arts & Entertainment

Media Credit: Melissa Cell

I'd been talking to my dad when I came across an ad for Remedy Tea. He was going through a phase and was rambling on about how he cut down on coffee and switched to a healthier alternative - advising me to do the same.

He had picked up blueberry green tea and raved about the different flavors of tea that existed throughout the world. The various mentions of flavors did not change my mind - I was not willing to cut out my caffeine fix. How else was I suppose to survive a day filled with crew practice, class and homework? As our conversation ended, I eventually said that I would try to cut back on the coffee.

With this new notion in mind, I thought a trip to Remedy could be fun. Mint-green painted walls, an orange chandelier, a red-and-white striped tapestry and some wooden tabletops filled the café. At first, the place felt a little cramped with all the tables close together, but the atmosphere was cozy and the music was soothing.

I finally walked to the counter and let the real adventure begin. I stood starring at a menu that offered over 50 different choices of hot and cold teas. Did I want black, green, oolong, roobibus, herbal, mate, tisune or organic tea? How about a chai latte or a seasonal special, which consisted of an apple à la mode latte, a maple cream latte and a caramel oolong tea? To top it off, there were some exotic flavors which included: "Dirty Chai," "Paradise City," "White Knight," "Garden of Eden," "Berry Punch" and "Moroccan Mint." Believe me, there was something for everyone.

The "Dirty Chai" was great if you like your tea on the creamy side. It had all the characteristics of an original chai tea but with an added twist - a hint of cinnamon and a mix of chocolate create a resemblance to hot chocolate with the flavor of tea.

There are also the basics such as Earl Grey and English Breakfast on the menu, but if you're willing to step out of your comfort zone, the Crème Caramel tea is decent. This tea had a clear, auburn brown color and a mild smell. There were traces of caramel flavoring that lingered after taking a sip, but nothing too strong. The taste of this tea was similar to that of a Thai iced-tea - without all the cream. With its mild flavor, this is perfect for the English Breakfast tea drinker who doesn't want to seem boring.

Yes, I know it is approaching winter, but sometimes people crave a cold beverage. The "London Calling" is pretty enjoyable. This drink was a mix of Earl Grey and vanilla and had the same consistency of a frappachino at Starbucks but cheaper. While the vanilla flavor was fairly prevalent, the essence of the tea was also present, allowing for a delicate balance of both. Remedy offers prices that won't break the bank. Students can afford a 16-ounce cup of tea for $2.35 (before taxes), while tea enthusiasts can order a whole pot for $4.35. Remedy's baked goods are also quite affordable but not as worthwhile - stick to the tea.

Now that I've given my input about tea, take the chance to stray away from the usual coffee order for just one day. Rejuvenate the mind and body with a new alternative. Come in from the cold and warm up with a holiday inspired flavor or enjoy afternoon tea with something more familiar.

Remedy Tea is easily accessible by foot, located at 1628 Sansom St. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed on Sunday.

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