food-drink -

Make Like a Tea and Leave

The Magic City leans toward the bean. Cafecito, cortadito, cafe con leche — just motor up to the nearest window (there’s one up the road) and pick your poison.

But you’ve resolved to cut down on shots (of espresso, that is). Curb your addiction at the new Amate Tea Lounge with a pick-me-up that’s more om than oh-man-that’s-strong.

Owner Emilia Peña spent months devising and taste-testing potential mixtures for the charming tiki-oasis tearoom. Fragrant options like coconut truffle, infused azúcar, and Marrakesh mint made the cut, as well as locally made scones, cakes, and cookies.

Peña plans to host artists, musicians, and poets on the bamboo-shaded patio. And if you let her play matchmaker (she’s got a datebook ready for tea-drinking singles), your first cups together are on her.

An ambitious concept, for sure.

But one that’s oolong overdue.


Amate Tea Lounge, 811 Northeast 79th Street (305-759-8777).