Despite the recent invasion of our high streets by big brand coffee houses, tea rooms have staged a comeback, often in unconventional spaces. And as winter nears, a hot drink becomes ever more comforting. Business Review went downtown to find the places where everything stops for tea: so tea time in Bucharest.
By Diana Petrescu and Oana Vasiliu
PrioriTea’s big draw may be its ultra central location in the Villacrosse Passage, but we also love the chic furniture and the muffins (especially the muffins).
Address: 41 Romulus Street, 0722.756.401
Very few places in Bucharest warrant the use of the word “enchanted” but this – located in an old noble house, close to Romniceanu Park – is one of them. Its magic can work against it: the atmosphere is so cozy and dreamy, it is not ideal for business or formal meetings.
Address:7 Dr. Grigore Romniceanu Street, 0723.175.300
Green Tea was one of the very first teahouses in Bucharest, established some time before they became “a thing”. The old-style home has floors decorated in different styles, Japanese, Indian and French, which makes Green Tea one eclectic teahouse.
Address: 24 Dr. Burghelea Street, 0749.090.202
If you’re into alternative places, this is the teahouse for you. Located in a basement, it’s always shrouded in darkness, which can be a good thing because if you saw the old cracked walls in daylight, you may get the creeps. But there’s a reason this spot is one of the advertisers’ favorite hangouts in Bucharest. One word: inspiration.
Address: 25 Profesor Doctor Gheorghe Marinescu Blvd., 0721.669.535
Located near the Conservatory, the artistic streak is alive and well in this place, from the paintings on the walls to the hand-painted teacups.
Address: 1 Poiana Narciselor Street, 0727.333.631
Best visited in the summer, La Vlaicu excels for its incredibly green terrace. The interior keeps it classy and uncluttered.
Address: 47 Aurel Vlaicu Street, 0727.609.699
A vintage salon where your tea is served in floral porcelain cups, along with a generous selection of herbs and flavors for your brew. A good spot for a cozy afternoon.
Address: 7 Popa Nan Street, 0734.662.580
Camera din fata
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Once upon a time, there was a world of magic and fairy tales, a world where grandparents spoiled grandchildren with homemade goodies, carefully baked in old ovens. If the description sounds familiar, you’ll feel right at home here.
Address: 21 D. I. Mendeleev Street, 021.311.1512
Merci Charity Boutique
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Merci Charity Boutique is the perfect place to discover handmade items or enjoy a cup of aromatic tea – and all in a good cause. Located in the Old Town, just above French Bakery, Merci is Romania’s first boutique charity shop – a popular trend worldwide – bringing hope to the disadvantaged. Check their Facebook page: almost every night something interesting is happening there, in aid of charity.
Address: 13 Smardan Street, 1st floor, 0752.593.736
ArCuB teahouse
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A tiny, all-white tea room in the foyer of the ArCuB hall. Spice up your senses with different types of tea, from energy boosters to relaxing brews or blends with long-term benefits. Check them out before or after a performance.
Address: 14 Batistei Street, 0730.091.728