A Nice Cuppa

Boulder, Colorado.  Some people may think of the television show Mork and Mindy.  Others may think of the JonBenet Ramsey murder case.  And many may think of the mountains that lie just west of the city.

But when I think of Boulder, I think of tea.  After living and/or working in Boulder for the past ten years, I know how to fill an entire day just by visiting establishments that exemplify Boulder’s tea culture.

1. The Pekoe Sip House is located near the main hospital north of downtown.  You can stop for breakfast at any of several restaurants nearby, then have your morning cup of tea at Pekoe.  While they specialize in organic and local teas, Pekoe also sells tea accessories.  This environmentally friendly shop is completely wind-powered and only serves tea, coffee, and baked goods using recycled products.  (1225 Alpine Avenue, 303-444-5953.)
2. Celestial Seasonings offers free tours of their tea production plant most days of the year.  Located in northeast Boulder, the tours include free samples of tea.  Before or after your tour, you can enjoy lunch in the Celestial Cafe and browse the Tea Shop.  On some days, you can smell the peppermint tea from a mile away - I know because I worked across the street for almost three years.  (4600 Sleepytime Drive, 303-530-5300.)
3. In downtown Boulder, there is an interesting building with quite a bit of recent history.  The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse was constructed with the help of artists from Dushanbe, Tajikstan, a sister city of Boulder.  There are hand-crafted intricate designs and incredible sculptures throughout the building.  The teahouse serves afternoon tea, as well as three meals a day.  The restaurant became a fast favorite for me and my husband, as the menu highlights ethnic flavors from around the world.  If you go, be sure to check out the cocktails and desserts made from tea.   Teas and accessories can be purchased at the teahouse or online.  (1770 13th Street, 303-442-4993.)