Tea for Two In Downtown Vancouver Posted On: February 18, 2016 By: Ruth Chin Filed In: Downtown Vancouver, Restaurants Without a doubt Vancouver reigns supreme as having a huge coffee culture, but there’s something altogether soothing about a mid-afternoon cup of tea to escape the frenetic cacophony of downtown Vancouver. Here are Auberge Vancouver Hotel’s top 5 picks for where to score a steaming cup of tea; it’s time to raise your pinkies up! Murchies The grand dame of tea and in business for over a hundred years with several shops in Vancouver, a cup of tea to go is available at this downtown Vancouver retail location, along with a large selection of blended loose leaf and bagged teas. This venerable label which began in 1894, is steeped in tradition (no pun intended!) as the founder John Murchie actually began his long and illustrious career by delivering tea to Queen Victoria as a young boy before immigrating to Canada and setting up shop: thus the birth of this eponymous brand. Insider tip: Try the Diamond Jubilee blend for something rich and aromatic. Auberge guests: please show your key card packet and you’ll receive 15% off all purchases of tea and coffee. Thierry Patisserie Reminiscent of a modern European café with indoor seating as well as curbside tables in the heart of the downtown luxury shopping area, this pastry shop is full of delectable sweets including their famous macarons and other calorific creations. Insider tip: If you like Earl Grey tea, Thierry makes one of the city’s best London Fogs; have a cup accompanied with a macaron. The Gallery Café If you’re perusing the latest collection at The Vancouver Art Gallery, head up to the second floor to a lovely urban oasis; score an outside seat (weather permitting) in the patio under an umbrella and contemplate life with a full pot of tea! Bistro Verde Located on the second floor of Nordstroms, this restaurant has it’s own separate entrance off Howe St to accommodate it’s patrons after store hours. They serve Mighty Leaf, a premium whole leaf, artisanal tea and it comes in a teapot, too. Insider tip: ask for a window seat to get a great view of The Vancouver Art Gallery as well as Robson Square. Finch’s Out and about exploring the Gastown neighbourhood? If you’re craving some tea located nearby, try this cozy little rustic retreat serving some lovely pots of loose-leaf tea. Open for lunch, too.