October 15, 2011
Now this is how I like to spend Friday afternoons. Never mind the black skies and pouring rain outside. We're safe in here, inside Bellocq Tea Atelier. Lisa and I met the proprietors - Michael and Heidi, at the 2011 International Gift Show earlier this summer. We've been meaning to stop by their Greenpoint Tea Atelier ever since.
The design of this space makes for a gorgeous apartment, and they didn't forget a single detail be it fresh oranges or cardamom pods. Both welcoming and soothing. Elegant, no doubt. Composed of two rooms - one for private tastings (complete with a pale pink couch) and another for retail, where you can also taste before selecting a tea.
And that we sure did, sipping cup after cup of tea. I lost track of how many we tried, but we spent nearly two hours there, learning so much. There was
Dragonwell from Zhejian Province in China. A
Siam Basil Lemongrass.
Hindu Holiday - like chai meets South African rooibos. And the
White Wolf, almost masculine with notes of cedar and black currant. They certainly know how to do it in style at Bellocq.
We went home with a pouch each of
No. 12, Le Hammeau. I wish I could transmit the scent of this tea over the internet! But you'll have to count on words and imagination.
Organic lemongrass meets lemon verbena, chamomile, lavender,
rose petals, mint, and sage. My favorite herbs and scents tucked tidy into a tisane. Am back home, and it's still raining. Cheese plate for nibbles - don't forget toasted walnuts, dinner delivered soon. Kettle on for a pot of Le Hammeau and a good movie for tonight.
P.S. Paulie Gee's is just two blocks away from Bellocq, so stop there for an unforgettable pizza (dinner only) after visiting the tea atelier!
Bellocq Tea Atelier
104 West Street
Brooklyn, NY 11222
1 (800) 495-5416
(Open Friday + Saturday 12-7pm)
March 12, 2011
Chef and James Beard Foundation Award Winner Marc Vetri has selected Bellocq Teas for his new menu at his namesake Vetri Restaurant. Marc is currently a semi finalist for three JAMES BEARD FOUNDATION AWARDS and two of those are for Vetri in Philadelphia. Marc's award nominations are for: OUTSTANDING SERVICE and OUTSTANDING RESTAURANT.
Vetri's newest restaurant Amis is also up for a JBF Award for BEST NEW RESTAURANT.
After visiting with Marc and his outstanding team we suggest they receive all three awards! Lovely service from a remarkably welcoming, well trained staff and the new menu is truly PERFECT!
Bellocq Teas are honored to be selected as part of the Vetri experience.
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