If ever a quote could sum up how I feel about Mother’s Day, Chaim Potok’s, “Come, let us have us some tea and continue to talk about happy things,” certainly says it all. Mother’s Day brunch or dinner out would be lovely. A meal planned and prepared by someone other than me would be even lovelier. A quiet cup of tea and happy conversation would be sublime.
Long Island is thankfully developing a tea culture. Tea-in and tea-to-go spots are popping up all over the island. From the exotic to the traditional English, there is an abundance of places to take Mom for a cuppa or a matcha and a sweet treat, too.
Ms. Michelle’s Urban Gourmet in Bayport (featured in our spring issue) has herbal teas and a delectable selection of gluten-free goodies. Both Infuse Tea Bar in West Sayville and Sip Tea Lounge in Huntington will transport Mom to faraway lands where tea is an experience to be savored and not served in a Styrofoam cup. Make sure you get Mom a fresh baked scone or muffin to enjoy with her Oolong, Rooibos or Pu’er tea. If Mom has a sense of humor, take her to The Witches Brew in West Hempstead for tea (coffee, too) and a vast selection of tempting desserts. Sweetie Pies on Main in Cold Spring Harbor is a cozy spot serving teas, coffee and a seductive selection of sweet treats. Proper English tea, scones, tea sandwiches and pastries are available at Chat Noir in Rockville Centre, Robinson’s Tea Room in Stony Brook and the Secret Garden Tea Café in Port Jefferson. Pictured above and below is the Hidden Oak Café at the Bayard Cutting Arboretum in Great River. Nestled within the grounds of the picturesque arboretum, this popular destination for Mother’s Day has been booked for over a week – maybe bring Mom there another day as they serve high tea all season long (reservations are required).
In addition, SerendipiTea in Manhasset (featured in our winter issue) and the Clipper Ship Tea Company in Northport both sell loose leaf teas, tisanes and related tea paraphernalia – all great gift ideas that Mom can enjoy at home.
Happy Mother’s Day!
