Brooklyn Tea

Tea house · Bedford-Stuyvesant

Brooklyn Tea

Tea house · Bedford-Stuyvesant

411 Lewis Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11233

Highlights

At Brooklyn Tea, this cozy Bed-Stuy tea haven serves up an impressive selection of loose-leaf brews and tasty bites, all in a chill, welcoming vibe.

411 Lewis Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11233 Get directions

brooklyntea.com

@brooklyntea

$$ · Menu

Reserve

@eater

"This cool, comfortable tea spot sources tea leaves from Asian mainstays China, Japan, Sri Lanka, and Taiwan, but its infusion of African teas and herbs from South Africa and Kenya stand out among NYC’s tea purveyors. Try a malty Kambaa Kenyan black tea, vanilla rooibos, or minty buchu — with Biggie-shaped cookies from BCakeNY. Canarsie-born co-owner and certified herbalist Ali Wright grew up brewing tea everyday for his Jamaican family, and is now bringing global tea culture to Bed-Stuy’s Black community with a tea-smelling wall, nutritional wellness labels, and a nook for reading or doing work. Brooklyn Tea has expanded to a second location in Brooklyn and an outpost in Atlanta." - Caroline Shin

15 Places to Try Tea in NYC

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@goop

"COVID-19 update: Open for pickup and delivery. In this town, we feel like coffee culture is taken very seriously—layered notes this, caramel notes that—while the world of tea often takes a backseat. But tea has a deep complexity and global culture all its own. Alfonso Wright and Jamila McGill, the duo behind Brooklyn Tea, get it. Their tea room on Nostrand Avenue is the spot for a steaming pot of Japanese sencha or single-estate Assam. The owners are incredibly knowledgeable about tea farming and emphasize the importance of choosing loose-leaf over industrially produced bagged tea. (Tea bags are generally bleached, and the crushed, dusty tea leaves they contain are often of an inferior quality compared to whole, loose-leaf options). Trade your weekend coffee for tea and sip it among the tea connoisseurs that frequent this gem of a café. COVID-19 disclaimer: We are working hard to keep our listings as up to date as possible (deliveries, outdoor dining, etc.), but given the evolving nature of local COVID-19 restrictions, we recommend double-checking the information in this guide with any business you plan on visiting. Also, please note that we have not vetted any businesses listed within our guides for their compliance with applicable safety regulations."

The Brooklyn Guide

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@eater

"Ali Wright and Jamila McGill offer a wide variety of teas from their store in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn." - Katie Okamoto

The Best Socially Conscious Sources for Coffee and Tea - Eater

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David Mejia

Google

10/10 if Google would allow. Very informative and helpful staff. I knew it was a good sign when the owners knew the people walking in by name and even bigger sign was when some of the employees came in to grab something themselves even though they weren’t on the clock. Tea selection is great, if you’re into Tea or even need to stock your own pantry, you absolutely can’t go wrong. Vibe and product so good that it’s worth making a trip if you’re coming from somewhere not in crown heights/bed-stuy. Walked in and was helped immediately. Didn’t end up leaving for another few hours. Got stocked up on loose leaf, had a few delicious teas while there. If you’re hungry, can’t go with the Chicken Wrap. Delicious, and would not expect food to be that good at a tea shop but it is really good and better than full fledged restaurants. Sauce that comes on the side is also very delicious. Would totally get a bottle of that to have at home.

Moonlighta McDonald

Google

This small black-owned tea house (almost a small chain!) has extensive options for teas. Both loose-leaf and prepared for you. Employees are so kind and helpful. I went with my mom for brunch, and we got a crush on you waffle plate, along with 2 teas (pomegranate-Hibiscus, and another that I forgot), a loose-leaf tea pouch (Tropical green), and a Brooklyn Tea shirt (Super soft!).

MHz Studios

Google

I don’t even like tea but the tea here is delicious! Took some time to make (maybe because it’s freshly brewed) but that Earl Grey Tea was the bomb! Had me and my girlfriend dreaming about it for days after. The staff were knowledgeable and kind. The environment is amazing too. 20 stars!

Eleanor Quinn

Google

We were greeted immediately by a very friendly staff. It was a little crowded right after we got our tea, but the staff was pleasant to everyone and very attentive! The Lavender Earl Grey was excellent both hot and cold, and I hope I can come back one day to buy some of their Black Rose tea. Their tea wall is so lovely and organized, and they have a small selection of tabletop games for customers to play while enjoying a pot of tea. Relaxing music, lighting was not too harsh, very cute egg timers. They were sweet to a couple kids who came in and asked about the tea, and were patient in explaining the teas to them. Overall, very nice and relaxing experience. Definitely rejuvenates you for a busy afternoon or a hectic evening!

Riley H

Google

My wife and I had the most wonderful time here! Their loose leaf tea is so delicious, and they have a wide range of flavor profile. We ordered the Afropunk and iron goddess of mercy, both incredibly tasty and flavorful. Would definitely come again!

Mind soul and collective consciousness

Google

Beautiful place, i purchased a tea and banana bread. I was never asked what sweetener or if i wanted the tea to stay or go. I love tea so i was quite excited, no interaction with the young lady in the cashier. I noticed another young lady came out she seemed more welcoming. I think the owner maybe...i think welcoming staff makes the place.

Millicent Murph

Google

Went to Brooklyn Tea for the first time today. The staff was welcoming and friendly. The service was very good and so was the food. I had a tomato and mushroom quiche and a slice of banana bread. The atmosphere was very chill and relaxing. Would definitely go back again.

Andrew Ian

Google

I discovered this place by accident since I was looking to have lunch at another place but it was full. The emphasis of this place is tea, but not so much on what you can drink at the location but what you can buy and take home. Food wise, I went around 1:30 PM and had the quiche and their version of the McMuffin which seemed to be vegan. It tastes ok, the only issue is that it felt that it took too much time to warm up the dishes. Seating wise there is a table and a sofa, so it could get complicated if there was a crowd. They also had a few table games so you can spend time playing Chess, Jenga or some card games.

David Mejia

Google

Moonlighta McDonald

Google

MHz Studios

Google

Eleanor Quinn

Google

Riley H

Google

Mind soul and collective consciousness

Google

Millicent Murph

Google

Andrew Ian

Google

Alexandria R.

Yelp

I was looking for tea house in Brooklyn and this come up on my list. Tea: 3.5/5 I got an oolong tea which I was hoping to get in a pot, but my partner told me that they no longer have that as an option. In its old location, they gave pots of tea, which I loved. Instead, I got a paper cup with a plastic lid to hold my oolong tea. Sadly, these cups tend to influence the taste of the tea. So, the oolong tea was diminished. It was okay. All in all, I really enjoyed its old location better and felt the tea was better then. However, it is nice to get tea that isn't a tea bag of tea dust.

Khalidah B.

Yelp

Amazing Service! Amazing Vibes! Amazing Tea! I spent 2hrs here and it truly was worth every minute. The owners were friendly and very knowledgeable about tea and were willing to answer any and all questions. I meet some really cool people and it felt so nostalgic being in a tea shop again. The tea was so delicious, I had 2 cups while there- Apple Cider and Cucumber Melon- both 10/10. I also got to taste Chocolate Mint latte, which tasted like a cookie. Traveling from Manhattan to Brooklyn Tea was definitely worth the two train transfers and 10 min walk while the temp was dropping. The tea's were hugs in a cup and greatly appreciated. I brought plenty to hold me until I travel back to visit.

Tremaine R.

Yelp

Great service, delicious teas, and relaxing ambiance. Great spot to relax and catch up with a friend or to take a minute to yourself. You'll always feel welcomed here.

Christiane W.

Yelp

Such a cute little tea shop in the neighborhood. The staff are immediately very welcoming. Be prepared to be overwhelmed by all of the great tea options. The employees are pretty knowledgeable about what's what and offer great suggestions. They sell packaged loose leaf tea, branded swag, and gear. They also have baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, and vegan options. Unfortunately, gluten free was not an option. I love the vibe here. They have a few seating areas inside and outside. Great customer service. Don't sleep on this awesome little tea spot!

Ayanna E.

Yelp

Great place to have tea and to zen out. I usually get my tea to go but I had time. I got a nice latte. I like that was greeted warmly when I came in. I told the tea gentleman what I was looking for and he didn't disappoint. The space is quaint and cozy. Almost like being in one's living room. I also loved the fact that the music was audible but not overwhelming and very soothing. I will definitely be back when I am in BK to get my tea fix and BIGGIE cookies.

Lakisha A.

Yelp

I just love all things Brooklyn Tea. Now that I get my hair done right next door, I get to indulge in my hot and cold beverages through my micro loc maintenance (iykyk). Each cup/pot is brewed to order so it's not a quick fix but definitely worth the wait. I usually call my order in while I'm getting my hair done and just run next door to pick it up. I was even able to purchase a milk steamer from this location for when I make my favorite "Brooklyn Fog" at home (cream earl grey latte). Great apparel, and snack and tea options with chill vibe.

Alejandro R.

Yelp

Brooklyn Tea has become a regular go-to breakfast spot for me. The vegetarian and vegan sandwich options are always tasty and made to order, and the coffee is one of my favorites in the neighborhood. It is a great location to relax anytime of the week, and the service is friendly and pleasant.

Shantina B.

Yelp

I've been going to Brooklyn Tea often to get their special blend of "She's Gotta Have It" and "Elderberry Berry". The service is an amazing. Any questions I have about any of the teas were answered in detail. I love how they tell you the benefits of each tea. This last time I went was the first time I had their vegan breakfast sandwich. It was delicious. I was so happy the cheese was melted. I plan to sit and enjoy the green couch. Looks very comfortable.I will have to try the other items next time I pick up my next round of teas.

Wild J.

Yelp

I really love this place ! My favorite items are the Biggie & Matcha cookies!!!!! If you get anything I highly recommend them

Chelsea P.

Yelp

Super cute spot . The tea is so delicious ! I really loved it . The workers there also very warm and sweet . I will def be back

Rosanaly D.

Yelp

Energy is contagious, so make sure you surround yourself with great energy! If you're looking for a good cup of tea/coffee, great customer service, beautiful smiles and amazing energy....go visit @brooklyntea on Lewis Ave. I was having a blah morning until I stumbled across this gem. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by their amazing staff! And it was genuine! I'm one to pay attention to detail and their choice of stoppers for their coffee/tea cups added to my experience. I couldn't help but smile looking down at the stopper who was smiling back at me. I will be keeping it in my wallet so the days I'm feeling blah, I can be reminded to smile. Thank you for a beautiful experience. I will definitely stop by every time I'm in the area.

Samir D.

Yelp

The best customer service ever! it's also black owned & black staff! the energy is so addictive , tea r amazing. I recently move to bk . they immediately made me feel so at home . now I'm a regular.

Shay L.

Yelp

I've been to BT too many times to count after a friend invited me here during a meet up. I want to just say that Brooklyn Tea is not close to my home, so I make the travel- and its ALWAYS WORTH IT. Between the cozy, airy decor and seating, the mouthwatering teas and the alwaysssss wonderful customer service- I will continue making the trip here to enjoy an iced coconut oolong latte. I also love sampling the different blends that they have available while I'm there. They're very clean and personable! If you're in town, give BT a try! One thing to note is their food menu is not extensive. So if youre happy with a light tasty bakery bite with your tea, this is your place!

Kristal W.

Yelp

Visited their new location on Lewis Ave recently and I love it! The interior is nicely laid out with plenty of seating and there is also shaded seating out front. The menu has expanded since my last visit as well. I tried the matcha waffle which was made to order and very satisfying. The crew is awesome too, welcoming and personable. Almost everyone that walked in while I was there were regulars and it's easy to understand why.

Shari H.

Yelp

So happy to try the new location. I've passed by many days since the soft opening and missed the grand opening over the weekend. Loving the decor, staff and vibe of this spot. Khy was awesome and answered all my questions. I opted for the Black Rose small hot pot for $6 and the Biggie cookie for $2 . What an experience. Felt so regal. The hot pot comes with a timer for steeping and when you can discard the loose leaf. The menu offers a ton of hot and cold teas and coffee; vegan treats and wraps available. They also offer select tea samples in the front of you're not sure what to get. Definitely stop by and show some love.

K J.

Yelp

My colleagues warned me to stay away from there because of bad service and poor quality of products. I went against it and gave it a try. Initially I thought this would be a neighborhood gem. Not so much. I gave this place several chances. (6 visits) Only one person made my latte exactly how I wanted it. Great taste and all. The other days it was almost as if my money wasn't green enough to spend there. Simple questions about products will cause them the snare at you. I asked when were the brownies made and It was as if I cursed at her. She shrugged her shoulder signaling she doesn't know. Why are you selling "fresh" products and don't know when it's made. That's how patrons get sick and stomach bugs. No thank you. Tried the biggie cookies, those were very dry and probably stale. My last visit seemed to annoy the server. I ask for particular milk and she stuck her nose in the cup to smell it to see if it was fresh or sour. That is disgusting! do better Brooklyn Tea. I will not patronize this store any further.

Michelle' W.

Yelp

Excellent customer service when ordering through their site. Prompt and correct delivery occurred in beautiful packaging. Thank you. I would highly recommend this company's products and they have become my go-to site for loose tea.

Cristall G.

Yelp

I appreciate a black owned business with good customer service any day. I'm a tea lover so this definitely sparked my interest. Amazing, amazing, amazing! The baristas are beyond friendly ad make great recommendations. The establishment is always clean and well kept don't matter what time of day I have visited.

Charisse S.

Yelp

I am so excited Brooklyn Tea opened another location that happens to be closer to me. This spot is considerably smaller but just as charming as the first location. There's just enough seating to hang out for a bit. I can see my elf stopping by with my laptop to do a little remote work pretty soon. One thing that isn't different is the great customer service and tea selection. Can't wait to return.

Gary W.

Yelp

Came upon Brooklyn Tea purely by accident after dining nearby at one of our favorite local spots Peaches Loved the idea of a dedicated tea bar Wifey & I were impressed by the relaxed cool vibe and how well the place was merchandised We also appreciated the great service and informed recommendations from the staff. They made the experience fun! Was truly helpful being able to sample various teas to assist us in making our selections Probably the best thing I can say is the quality of their teas is top notch & BKT's blueberry/rooibos (our favorite) is in heavy rotation in our household. Finally our experience in ordering reups online has been seamless

Shania B.

Yelp

The only thing better than the tea, is the customer service! The owners opened up their business and took the time to explain everything in detail with enthusiasm. Not to mention the ambiance and decor adds to the experience. If I was a local I'd be here everyday but until then, it's in my must do's when I visit New York.

Bryant T.

Yelp

I went to this establishment today on 5/19/24 and I feel i was treated unfairly.The barrista who seved me had dreads she was unpleasnt from beginning to end i came there around 830 am and left around 10 am , I was waiting for Peaches to open and figured i would have something hot while i waited. This was a big mistake the matcha i ordered was quite BITTER AND I DIDNT REALLY DRINK IT. Additionally after drinking it my stomache hurt and i felt nauseous.U chose not to relate this with young lady who served me.What is really bothering me is on my eay out Both staff started laughing as i exited tge establishment....Dont worry i will never return to this business for you to Embarass me like that again Young Lady. Good Luck with promoting BLACK OWNED BUSINESS, when you are not Respecting your own BLACK PEOPLE.

Rabiya I.

Yelp

great service and good vibes in this place! only a few outlets tho if you're looking to WFH

Bilal M.

Yelp

Wow! Brooklyn Tea (411 Lewis Ave) was the highlight of my NYC trip. The owner is super friendly and helpful with tea selections. The vibe was very welcoming. I highly recommend this spot.

Lee W.

Yelp

This is referring to the 411 Lewis Ave location: Lovely place, lovely vibe, great music.... but LOTS of problems -- wouldn't make a special trip to go back here. -The server was distracted, not as attentive as he could have been. -The counter stools are cute, but uncomfortable. Too hard, too high, and too small. -Not enough indoor seating. One table and one loveseat. Cute but not well-placed. They should probably lose the loveseat because the place is too small. -By the time my daughter was finishing with her meal -- which she really enjoyed -- mine still had not come out. I asked about it and they said it was coming....but 10 minutes later, they said there was a problem with the oven, so -- no breakfast. They offered me a free pastry. I choose a warmed cheese Danish. It was just OK. *** Most importantly: --There's a high platform dividing the small space, so you have to step up to get to the seating area -- but there is no colored safety strip alerting customers to watch the step, so I took a pretty bad tumble. The platform flooring is the same color as the rest of the floor, so it's not easy to see. I advised the woman at the counter, who witnessed my fall, that there should be a colored safety strip there. She didn't respond. The tea itself and the veggie wrap were great.... but as it stands, not sure this location is on my list for a second visit.

Toni M.

Yelp

Amazing Black owned establishment (HBCU Grads a plus). The selection of teas are amazing. Offerings of various flavored teas and an friendly staff. You'll have to wait a few minutes for the tea to steep so it's best not to think you're in the big coffee place with the green and white logo but it's worth the wait.

Victoria E.

Yelp

I looove this place. The variety of tea is unmatched. They're always playing great music and the atmosphere is very chill and relaxing. The customer service is excellent. The staff is so welcoming and kind and they never rush you. This is a must try spot.

M C.

Yelp

I really like their tea and vegan bites. However, today was off day for the tea batista. I left the establishment with my items. My tea tasted off. Upon reviewing my receipt, I requested Rooibios Chai but received Marsala instead. Luckily, the macadamia milk helped with the bitter taste. I miss the Nostrand Ave location.

Eyvone D.

Yelp

This place is sooo welcoming! The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable. Although my visit was brief I am obsessed and can not wait to come back for a longer visit with food, tea and more shopping.

Jerry W.

Yelp

The name says Tea but the coffee is excellent. Served by welcoming, friendly staff in a beautiful environment. Stopped in for the first time today on the way to work. I plan to make it a habit! Thanks to Jamila and Milo for getting my day off Tia great start!

Katie F.

Yelp

What a wonderful spot to meet with friends and enjoy a wide variety of teas (and coffee!). The ambiance is fantastic, the menu great, and I love that they keep a couple of fresh brewed options available to sample. The crew of parents from The Brooklyn Brownstone School loved our gathering there the other day and we'll be sure to be back!

Monique J.

Yelp

Lovely space w/ friendly workers , the worst coffee I've ever had in my life and more expensive than Starbucks... go figure

Ali L.

Yelp

O! M! G! This place is beyond amazing. I planned on just grabbing a basic tea and dipping out, but Milo and Epiphany guided me on a journey to tea heaven. I stayed and ordered two more teas. The vibes in there are just right. The employees are present, knowledgeable, homey, comedic, and a joy to be around. The array of teas are a bit overwhelming, but there's a tea for everyone and everything. And on top of that, they are efficient. I literally watched them pack a ton of teas for an event (??) and take customers with a smoothness and not one complaint. Milo and Epiphany need to be scheduled together all the time. I love this place. You will too.

Jackie F.

Yelp

the chicken wrap with plantain is soooo god i love it so much every time i go for lunch

Kenza W.

Yelp

First off: don't come here if you expect to sit and spend time. It is not hospitable in that sense. There is no room to read or get any work done. Very common, though, I'll admit in Bk. There are two small bench/loveseats that are often full, so max four people can read, work, etc. The customer service is spotty. I've had a nice chat with one worker, and been ignored entirely by another. 3 stars because the tea is solid, -1 for the lack of space/inability to stay and the cramped feeling, and -1 for the subpar service.

Maren O.

Yelp

this place has become my favorite spot. energy/atmosphere and staff is always amazing. theres a beautiful window that lets the sun seep in even when its cold and sad outside, and every single one of the tea's I've tried has been incredible -- they make great latte's out of their teas too:) I don't usually spend money on food let alone drinks, but this has become part of my routine because it's just always worth it.

@eater

15 Places to Try Tea in NYC

"Ali Wright and Jamila McGill offer a wide variety of teas from their store in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn." - Katie Okamoto

The Best Socially Conscious Sources for Coffee and Tea - Eater

test

David Mejia

Google

Moonlighta McDonald

Google

MHz Studios

Google

Eleanor Quinn

Google

Riley H

Google

Mind soul and collective consciousness

Google

Millicent Murph

Google

Andrew Ian

Google

David Mejia

Google

Moonlighta McDonald

Google

MHz Studios

Google

Eleanor Quinn

Google

Riley H

Google

Mind soul and collective consciousness

Google

Millicent Murph

Google

Andrew Ian

Google

Alexandria R.

Yelp

Khalidah B.

Yelp

Tremaine R.

Yelp

Great service, delicious teas, and relaxing ambiance. Great spot to relax and catch up with a friend or to take a minute to yourself. You'll always feel welcomed here.

Christiane W.

Yelp

Ayanna E.

Yelp

Lakisha A.

Yelp

Alejandro R.

Yelp

Shantina B.

Yelp

Wild J.

Yelp

I really love this place ! My favorite items are the Biggie & Matcha cookies!!!!! If you get anything I highly recommend them

Chelsea P.

Yelp

Super cute spot . The tea is so delicious ! I really loved it . The workers there also very warm and sweet . I will def be back

Rosanaly D.

Yelp

Samir D.

Yelp

The best customer service ever! it's also black owned & black staff! the energy is so addictive , tea r amazing. I recently move to bk . they immediately made me feel so at home . now I'm a regular.

Shay L.

Yelp

Kristal W.

Yelp

Shari H.

Yelp

K J.

Yelp

Michelle' W.

Yelp

Cristall G.

Yelp

Charisse S.

Yelp

Gary W.

Yelp

Shania B.

Yelp

Bryant T.

Yelp

Rabiya I.

Yelp

great service and good vibes in this place! only a few outlets tho if you're looking to WFH

Bilal M.

Yelp

Wow! Brooklyn Tea (411 Lewis Ave) was the highlight of my NYC trip. The owner is super friendly and helpful with tea selections. The vibe was very welcoming. I highly recommend this spot.

Lee W.

Yelp

Toni M.

Yelp

Victoria E.

Yelp

M C.

Yelp

Eyvone D.

Yelp

Jerry W.

Yelp

Katie F.

Yelp

Monique J.

Yelp

Lovely space w/ friendly workers , the worst coffee I've ever had in my life and more expensive than Starbucks... go figure

Ali L.

Yelp

Jackie F.

Yelp

the chicken wrap with plantain is soooo god i love it so much every time i go for lunch

Kenza W.

Yelp

Maren O.

Yelp

Brooklyn Tea

Brooklyn Tea

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Highlights

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