Tea Time in the City: The Argo Tea Experience

Photo courtesy of ItsAllFare.com.

ArgoTea

1 N. Dearborn

Chicago, Illinois

312.212.8032

The artful, ambiance of Argo Tea is always alluring.  On first encounter, I knew it would be a place of romance; it was love at first brew.  Whether iced or hot, Argo Tea has the perfect cup for every tea (or even non-tea) aficionado.  All of Argo Tea’s concoctions are free of artificial flavors, colorings, or additives, giving them a distinct, strong, tea essence.  Only real fruit, flowers, and other natural ingredients are added to infuse the tea varietals. 

Posted at the busy, bustling corner of Dearborn and Madison, entering this heavenly haven brings about a sense of calm.  The multi-hued walls of Argo Tea have a brightness and freshness akin to a funky museum or a posh hotel lobby, with its modern adornments and hip framed artworks.  Remaining consistent no matter the location, all Argo Teas boast shades of earthy brown, opulent orange and minty green, accompanied by pendant lighting that is perfect for people-watching, or finding a nook to read a good book. 

Baristas, just as vibrant as their esthetics, are readily available for all your tea desires.  Each visitor lined up, waiting to have that special morning sip, afternoon delight, or post-dinner spot of tea.  Immediately noticeable is the loose leaf tea bar.  Argo Tea offers some of the most flavorful red, white, green, and herbal teas I have ever experienced.  Favorites include the Fruit Sangria: an infusion of hibiscus petals, dried fruits and rosehips, and the Carolina Honey:  black tea blended with bits of lemon and notes of honey.  For those seeking the buzz and jolt of a typical café, Argo Tea satisfies with a coffee assortment.  Additionally, for the hungrier tea (or coffee) drinker, Argo Tea offers several accompaniments, such as granolas, salads, pastries, and miniature paninis - some of which are made using the flavors of the teas offered.

Whether you happen upon Argo Tea by mistake or by intent, it’s a guaranteed unique experience.  Its comfort and quiet in a city of hustle and flurry.  Choose a new favorite, or indulge in an old beloved during your next visit to this cozy little magnum opus.

Like Magic

This is thee best tea in the world for skincare. If you're into herbals like myself, you will enjoy the benefits of this tea. I have been using this tea since I saw it on the stands at Whole Foods on January 1st and I have had great, fabulous skin ever since (not that I didn't before, lol, but with winter rearing his ugly head, I'm prone to dry patches). Please buy this if you love yourself.

Kombuchaaaah...

So, I started my Kombucha routine on Saturday. The plan is to drank on this here Kombucha on a regular basis (2-3 times per week), and see what changes my body, soul, and mind will experience. For those who don't know, Kombucha (pronounced Com-boo-chah) is a colony of bacteria and yeast that when mixed with green or black tea becomes fermented, ready to drink, and chock full o' active enzymes, amino acids, etc.

I heard through the raw foods grapevine that Kombucha is the literal fountain of youth. Supposed health benefits include:

• strengthening the immune system
• preventing cancer
• improving digestion and liver function
• lowering cholesterol
• lowering blood pressure
• healthier/clearer skin, healthier hair, stronger/longer nails
• increased circulation
• increased metabolism and appetite control
• body alkalinity
• increased vitality - rejuventation/restoration

I heard that if you drink Kombucha on the regular, you will basically be immune to all illnesses (minus STDs, I suppose). Kombucha is like some sort of liquid superhero that chokeslams all things evil. I bought the bottles (see above), and I also bought the Yogi Tea bags because they are cheaper. I'll give it a month or two and see what happens.

Oh...it's nasty as hell without any fruit flavoring....just thought I'd put that out there.

Bags Without Borders: Matt & Nat

I've been a Matt & Nat lover for a few years now, but I see that Bluefly is now selling their bags at a discounted rate. Why I love Matt & Nat: eco-friendly, vegan (no cow leather here, baby), and very stylish.

Farm.Girl.Fresh: Farmer's Markets (Chicago)

I have really developed a fondness for local Farmer's Markets...never truly understood the importance of them growing up, but within the past year or so, I totally get it. The more I cook and experience new dishes, the more I appreciate what I can find at a Farmer's Market. I'm talking garlic scapes, beefsteak tomatoes, real honey...you name it, your local Farmer's Market (or some other Farmer's Market nearest you) will have it. Check the link for Bronzeville, Hyde Park, Gold Coast and many, many others. Get your farm game up.

MK Solaire

I didn't get to see this the first time it came to town, but now its back. Michelle Kaufman's MK Solaire Smart Home is planted directly in front of the Museum of Science and Industry as part of the Green + Wired exhibit. She was actually living in it during the debut...not sure if she still is. Hauteness.