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Dream About Tea in Evanston, IL
Northwestern University students have historically relied on coffee to keep their minds sharp while studying for exams. But those who are in the know can avail themselves of a smoother, less jittery buzz at Dream About Tea on Davis Street.
Owners Daquan Yao and Hong Wu describe Dream About Tea as "an authentic Chinese tea shop". Those expecting frilly Victoriana such as lace curtains, whimsical teapots, or tiered tea-trays will be disappointed.
There aren't any teacups either.
Instead, tea is served in heat-tempered glass mugs: Tea leaves are heaped into the mug which is then filled with hot water. Customers are instructed to allow the leaves to settle to the bottom before drinking.
While this may seem a strange way to "take tea", it isn't at all uncommon in China, where most of the shop's teas are from. Chalkboard menus group teas by type: Blacks, oolongs, whites, greens, and tisanes (aka herbal teas) are all available.
Incidentally, don't be afraid to ask about one of the dozens of teas that are not on the menu: Apothecary-style jars of tea line the counter, and Daquan and Hong are happy to answer questions about their teas, which can be purchased by the ounce as dry leaves, or can be infused into hot tea on the spot, either to drink at the shop, or to-go.
Serious fans of Chinese tea and Chinese Tea Culture will be pleased by the vast assortment of Chinese teawares available, including Yixing teapots and gaiwans. Those who enjoy pu'erh tea will particularly appreciate Dream About Tea's vast selection.
Food offerings are limited to "Yummy Tea Eggs" (hard boiled eggs that have been marinated in tea and spices) and Chinese pastries.
(I have found that a couple of tea eggs, paired with one of the shop's excellent oolongs,makes a satisfying meal. Equally good is a Chinese red bean cake with a cup of Yunnan Gold Silk tea: The spicy black tea is a perfect compliment to the tender, sweet cake.)
Classical music (courtesy of NPR) plays in the background while tea drinkers quietly read or chat with friends as they sip. On Sunday afternoon a majong club meets, with the players enjoying hot cups of tea as they sit and chat around the gaming table.
Indeed, it is the variety of patrons, along with the variety of teas, that make Dream About Tea such a special place. While college students can be found studying and drinking tea at the shop's tables, children are welcome at this tea room, along with their parents and grandparents. Hong and Daquan can also be found chatting with customers as they refill their cups, all the while sharing with them their love, and dreams, of tea.
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