Hungry Hound: Tea

November 25, 2004 — Tomorrow marks the kick-off to the holiday shopping season and after walking the streets for hours, nothing beats a cup of tea. ABC7's Hungry Hound says there are several options for tea lovers this season -- whether you're on the Mag Mile with the kids, or just browsing the boutiques along fashionable Armitage Avenue.

There are more than a few places to grab a spot of tea and it doesn't necessarily mean you have to make a reservation at one of the big downtown hotels.

Adults who love to shop along Armitage in Lincoln Park now have an upscale respite. Along with the fabulous free internet access and comfy seating, Argo Tea is trying to carve out a unique alternative along the fashionable street.

"Well, this is an exciting new concept which was created in Chicago, we are trying to do for tea what Starbucks did for coffee," said Daniel Lindwasser, Argo Tea.

There's a wide assortment of loose leaf teas for sale but be sure to try one of the house tea drinks: a mate latte is a combination of milk, mate tea, almond extract and cocoa, all shaken together and served over ice.

Sangria tea is a refreshing blend of hibiscus tea combined with fresh fruit. Even Asian bubble tea has a presence - as black tea and milk are combined with those trademark tapioca balls.

"While you are shopping and you want to take a break you can come in here and have one of our teas, signature drinks."

For family shopping along Michigan Avenue, The American Girl Place cafe provides the perfect retreat for little girls and their favorite companions. While kids can assist their dolls with imaginary tea, they get to drink hot chocolate and choose from an assortment of savories and sweets.

"It's a traditional tea, items which range from finger sandwiches, scones, breads and also our fun desserts," said Sophia Dolkos, American Girl Place.

Besides hot chocolate, kids can also try a smoothie. They go well with sweet treats like "dirt" pudding and heart cookies. But the main attraction here is the interactive dining - between child and doll, that is.

"We cater to the young girls and also their families and also their favorite American Girl dolls." Along Division Street, another good bet is Aion Tea and Antiques and in the far western suburbs, inside the Westfield Shoppingtown Mall in Aurora, Savannah's Restaurant and Tea Room has one of the best tea services in the area.

Featured Tea Locations:

Argo Tea
958 W. Armitage Ave.
312-873-4123
(open soon in Gold Coast - Rush and Pearson; also in Loop - State & Randolph)

American Girl Place
111 E. Chicago Ave.
312-787-3883

Also mentioned:

Aion
2135 W. Division St.
773-489-1534

Savannah's Restaurant and Tea Room
Westfield Shoppingtown Fox Valley
2480 Fox Valley Center Drive, Aurora
630-499-7600

Other places for tea service:

The Bar at Aria
Fairmont Hotel
200 N. Columbus Dr.
312-444-9494

Atwood Cafe
1 W. Washington St.
312-368-1900

Park Hyatt
800 N. Michigan Ave.
312-239-4030

Peninsula Chicago
108 E. Superior St.
312-573-6760

Seasons Lounge
Four Seasons Hotel
120 E. Delaware Pl.
312-649-2358