 |
MARKET BASKET MARKETPLACE
It's always teatime at Lincoln Park shop and cafe
By Jennifer Frank
Special to the Tribune
Published August 27, 2003
Teas from the world over are setting the trend at Argo Tea in Lincoln Park, which offers myriad varieties from traditional leaf classics such as black tea, green tea and herbal chamomile to the exotic, hand-tied rosettes of green anemone.
"We serve over 35 different teas from around the world. Most tea comes from Asia, but we have a delicious red tea [rooibos] from South Africa which is caffeine-free and packed with antioxidants," said co-owner Daniel Lindwasser. "One of our best summer sellers is the iced tea squeeze, half hibiscus tea and half fresh-squeezed lemonade."
Signature drinks include iced bubble tea, a sweet concoction of milky Asian black or green tea with natural fruit-based chewy tapioca "pearls." On the hot side, the "teappuccino," a black tea mixed with steamed milk and froth, is a healthful alternative to coffee. The beverage of choice extends into dessert: Five flavors of tea ice cream are made on-site and include green tea, berry blast, espresso, chai and mate.
"All of our beverages have a healthy base," said co-owner Arsen Avakian. "We combine tea with fresh and natural flavorings to create both traditional and non-traditional drinks that preserve all the healthy aspects of tea."
The sleek cafe seats 24, with wireless Internet access; the patio seats another 20. Light lunch items, along with jams, pastries and biscotti, also are sold. Kettles, teacups, mugs, books and accessories are here too.
Drink prices range from $1.75 to $3.55. Loose tea is sold in 1- and 4-ounce bags or in bulk, and costs $1.10 to $5.90 per ounce.
----------
Argo Tea Cafe, 958 W. Armitage Ave., 773-388-1880.
Copyright © 2003, Chicago Tribune
|
