Sassy Chopsticks

  • Flavorful Asian-inspired Recipes
  • Recipes
  • Pantry
  • How-To
  • About
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Pantry
  • How-To
  • About
  • Subscribe

subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipes
  • Pantry
  • How-To
  • About
  • Subscribe

×
Home » Pantry

What Tea Is Served In Chinese Restaurants: Full Guide

Published: Aug 23, 2023 by Yuan

29 shares
  • Facebook
  • Flipboard
  • X

Chinese restaurants are known for their expansive menus, but tea is one item you're almost always guaranteed to find. Although not all restaurants serve the same type of tea, traditional tea is served in Chinese restaurants worldwide. In this post, I'll discuss the types of tea served in Chinese restaurants, the featured taste behind each type, and so much more:

Chinese tea and cups
Jump To
  • Different types of tea served in Chinese restaurants
  • How to enjoy tea when dining in a Chinese restaurant
  • The benefits of drinking tea 
  • What to look for in your tea when eating in a Chinese restaurant
  • Conclusion
  • YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Different types of tea served in Chinese restaurants

Chinese restaurants often offer a wide variety of hot teas along with meals instead of iced tea. Here are some of the most common teas that you may find served in Chinese restaurants(especially dim sum places) here in the United States:

Jasmine tea

Jasmine tea is one of the most popular teas and widely consumed teas in Chinese cuisine. It is made by scenting green tea leaves with jasmine flowers, resulting in a fragrant and delicate floral flavor.

Oolong tea

Oolong tea is a partially fermented tea with a range of flavors, from light and floral to rich and roasted. It is known for its complex and nuanced taste. Different varieties of oolong tea, such as Tie Guan Yin(铁观音) and Da Hong Pao(大红袍), may be offered.

Pu-erh tea(普洱茶)

Pu-erh tea, also called Pu'er tea, comes from China's Yunnan province (where I was born!). Yunnan is the birthplace of tea, and it has a long history of tea production. Pu-erh tea is unique because it undergoes a fermentation and aging process that sets it apart from other types of tea. It is a fermented tea that undergoes aging, resulting in a distinct earthy aroma and robust flavor. It is often served in small cups.

Longjing (Dragon Well,龙井) tea

Longjing tea is a type of green tea from Hangzhou, China. It has a smooth, slightly sweet taste and a refreshing aroma. The loose-leaf tea leaves are flat and resemble the shape of a sparrow's tongue. Longjing teas are actually excellent choices for gift options to a Chinese tea lover! 

Chrysanthemum tea(菊花茶)

Chrysanthemum tea infuses dried chrysanthemum flowers in hot water. It has a light, floral taste and is often enjoyed for its cooling properties and reputed health benefits.

Black tea

While not as commonly served as other types of tea in Chinese restaurants, black tea may still be available. It has a stronger flavor.

In some Chinese restaurants, you may have the opportunity to choose the type of tea you prefer, while in others, a specific hot tea may be served as the house tea.

How to enjoy tea when dining in a Chinese restaurant

Here are some tips on how to make the most of your tea enjoyment:

  • Chinese restaurants often offer a variety of fragrant Chinese tea to choose from. Take a look at the tea menu or ask the server for recommendations. Consider selecting a tea that complements the flavors of the dishes you plan to order.
  • Once you have chosen your tea, the server will typically bring a teapot, tea leaves, and hot water. They may briefly rinse the teapot and tea leaves to awaken the flavors. Allow the server to handle the brewing process, or ask if you can participate.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the aroma as the tea is poured into your cup. Chinese teas often have distinctive scents that can range from floral to earthy. Inhale the fragrance and let it awaken your senses.
  • Observe the color of the tea in your cup. Chinese teas can have different hues, ranging from pale green to amber or even darker shades. 
  • Chinese tea is meant to be enjoyed slowly and mindfully. Take small sips and let the flavors unfold on your palate. 
  • Pairing with Food: Chinese tea can enhance the flavors of the dishes you are enjoying. Take a sip of tea between bites to cleanse your palate and appreciate the interplay of flavors. 

Relax sip slowly. 🙂 Feel free to experiment with different tea and food combinations to find your preferences!

The benefits of drinking tea 

Here are some key benefits of enjoying tea:

  • Tea acts as a palate cleanser between bites of different dishes. It helps refresh the taste buds, removing lingering flavors and preparing the palate for the next dish. 
  • Chinese cuisine can be rich and varied, often incorporating a range of flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques. Tea, mainly green tea, is known for its potential digestive properties. It can help stimulate digestion and alleviate feelings of heaviness or bloating after a meal.
  • In general, Chinese tea contains less caffeine than coffee. Different types of Chinese tea have varying caffeine levels. Green tea usually contains the least caffeine, followed by white tea, oolong tea, and black tea.
  • Tea is a hydrating beverage, especially without added sweeteners. Staying hydrated during a meal is essential for overall well-being.
  • Drinking tea is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and traditions. It provides an opportunity to connect with Chinese heritage.
  • Many types of tea, such as green tea and oolong tea, are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants have been associated with various health benefits. 
  • Sharing a pot of tea with dining companions fosters conversation, connection, and a sense of togetherness.

Drinking tea in a Chinese restaurant adds to the cultural experience and provides various advantages. Embrace the tea-drinking tradition and savor the flavors and benefits it brings to your dining experience.

What to look for in your tea when eating in a Chinese restaurant

When selecting and enjoying tea in a Chinese restaurant or tea shop. Here's what to look for in your tea when dining in a Chinese restaurant:

cup of Chinese tea
  • Look for a diverse tea selection that includes different types of tea, such as green tea, oolong tea, black tea, or herbal teas. This tea selection allows you to choose a tea that suits your preferences.
  • Opt for high-quality teas that are fresh and well-crafted. Fresh tea leaves will have vibrant colors and aromas.
  • Pay attention to the aroma of the tea. Chinese teas often have distinct fragrances, ranging from floral to earthy or nutty. Inhale the aroma and choose a tea that appeals to your senses.
  • Consider the taste profile of the tea. Chinese teas have many flavors, from light and grassy to robust and smoky. For example, if you prefer a milder taste, you might choose a delicate green tea or a floral oolong tea. If you enjoy stronger flavors, you might choose roasted oolong or bold black tea.
  • Think about how the tea will complement the flavors of the dishes you plan to order. If you're having delicate seafood dishes, a light and subtle tea might be a good choice. A stronger tea with more robust flavors can provide a satisfying balance for rich and flavorful dishes. 
  • Choose a tea that aligns with your taste and personal preference, whether you enjoy a particular type of natural tea or prefer a specific flavor profile.

Conclusion

Tea has been a part of Chinese dining for many centuries and is an integral part of the cuisine. I hope you enjoyed this post as much as I did writing it. Next time you visit a Chinese restaurant, take the opportunity to explore the different teas and find the one that speaks to you. Leave your comments below and let me know what you think.:)

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

  • A bowl of black sticky rice pudding garnished with mango slices and sprinkled with coconut flakes.
    Easy Black Rice Pudding: A Hearty, Delicious Dessert
  • A colorful strawberry banana smoothie in a clear glass, showcasing a blend of strawberries and bananas on a cutting board.
    Healthy Strawberry Banana Smoothie Without Yogurt
  • Close-up of warm red bean soup in a pretty blue and white color bowl 252.
    Easy Red Bean Soup Instant Pot Recipe You Must Try
  • A plate of lemon white chocolate cookies.
    5-Ingredient Lemon White Chocolate Cookies With Cake Mix

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




me

Hey there! Welcome to SassyChopsticks.com!

I'm Yuan, a writer, world traveler, web developer, and photographer based in the U.S. My journey has taken me across multiple countries, from Malaysia to England, before I settled in Tennessee, where I've called home for nearly two decades.

More about me →

Popular

  • Tuna kimbap on a brown cutting board with a few spinach leaves on the side.
    Spicy Tuna Kimbap Rolls – Quick & Tasty Recipe
  • Colorful stir-fried kung pao chicken with vegetables in a glossy sauce, served on a plate with chopsticks on the side.
    Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken: Easy Copycat Recipe
  • Cantaloupe slices on a cutting board.
    How to Cut a Cantaloupe: Simple Step-by-Step Guide
  • Baking soda in a clear glass with a silver spoon resting inside, ready for use in cooking or baking.
    Top 6 Baking Soda Substitutes for Easy Baking

Trending recipes

  • rolls
    Chinese Egg Rolls
  • stir fry Taiwanese spinach
    Stir Fry Taiwanese Spinach with Garlic
  • Creamy coconut shrimp buffet style
    Creamy Coconut Shrimp Buffet Style- Quick and Easy
  • Chinese sponge cake
    Chinese Sponge Cake Recipe (Chiffon Cake)

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions

Newsletter

Sign Up! for emails and updates

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
Cookie SettingsAccept All
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT