The founder of Mariage Freres, Henri Mariage, would often say that "each cup of tea, had the infinite perfume of adventure and poetry..." (my translation, sorry if I destroyed it) - I love how that sounds! and with tea houses in Tokyo, Berlin and Paris, they must be doing something right, nest pas? So, on my next trip to Paris, I decided to pay Mariage Frere's "Salon De The", a call.
For my fist visit to this historic, Parisian tea house, I opted for the one located in the Marais. I had heard, that it was "the one to try" (there are others, in various department stores, but not as quaint). Located a few blocks behind the Hotel de Ville, it was a bit hidden, in a tiny street, but I found it!
As I entered the shop, I first encountered the Tea Store - an area where specially brewed, fine teas, and other things related to tea are sold "to go" - over 500 varieties of blended teas from around the world! wow! both, impressive and overwhelming! (some varieties are also available in Duty Free shops at the Paris airport).
The Salon De The, was further back from the Tea Store, and in contrast to the darkish front store, it was well lit by sky-lights and seemed sunny and inviting. I was given a seat by a linen covered table, and I was served by a multilingual waiter who spoke perfect English (what a relief).
I chose a pot of Marco Polo tea and a creme brulee, both delicioux! and while I sipped my tea slowly, I read parts of a book on the History of Tea (ask for it in English) that the house of Mariage Freres publishes. I recommend it all! The tea, the Tea House, or the Tea Store for just a visit.
Mariage Freres
30-32-35 Rue du Burg-Tibourg
Le Marais, Paris
tel - 01-42-72-28-11
www.mariagefreres.com
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