Boutique of the Week: Carytown Teas

24-26 S. Nansemond Ave.

Richmond, Va. 23226

When I first walked into Carytown Teas I knew exactly what I wanted -- even though the shop has an overwhelming four-page list of teas that includes everything from not-so-basic black tea to Pu-erh tea, a fermented and aged tea from Southern China pretty much unknown in the West. However, it was the Iced Ginger Matcha Latte on the specials board outside that had caught my eye. Matcha is a powdered green tea that is whisked until frothy. Owner Patricia Adams then blended the tea with soy milk and added ice to complete my latte. The result was refreshing and spicy, much better than a Chai Tea Latte from Starbucks.

The walls of Carytown Teas are stacked with bronze metal containers holding more than 100 varieties of organic fair-trade teas from around the world. The tiny Salon de The deals with the tea estates directly and only buys the best teas, Adams said. Carytown Teas, which is located next to Carytown Burgers and Fries, takes a holistic and healthy approach to life. Adams believes in medicinal herbs rather than pharmaceuticals. On the long list of teas are medicinal tea blends such as the Memory Aid or Hangover Helper. The Immunity Booster combines Elderflower, licorice, fennel, cinnamon and calendula to ease congestion and fever.

Contact staff writer Alexandra Varipapa at alexandra.varipapa@richmond.edu