Right when it starts to get cold, I began to gear up for trips to Saint’s Alp. Yes, I am aware there are other places in the city which probably serve tea, but this has become my favorite. They don’t rush you, so it’s a perfect place to order a large pot of tea and sit back for a bit as you write away. I prefer the Williamsburg location since it’s a bit quieter, but the one on 3rd Avenue is on par with regard to service, quality of food, and quality of tea.
For tea, my absolute favorite is their Almond (Black) Milk Tea, served hot. It’s an almond black tea, which is served with hot milk. I don’t usually like milk in my tea, but I really like something about their preparation. When I first tried it, I thought it was made with almond milk, since I’m an avid drinker of almond milk. Instead though the almond flavor is prominent and makes it taste as if it were made with almond milk. I also really like their honey black tea, which is a straight black tea paired with the addition of a honey. It’s perfect for a cold day or when you’re sick. Very soothing on the throat.
Shredded Chicken Noodle Dish - Saint's Alp
Recently I tried their food for the first time. I went with their shredded chicken dish, which was prepared with vermicelli, green tea noodles, and udon noodles, all topped with crispy onions. Green tea noodles? That was definitely a first. It actually tasted exactly like it sounds – noodles with the slight flavor of green tea. I was curious if the flavor would be overwhelming (because do we all really want to feel like we’re chewing on a grean tea bag?), but it actually ended up being only a slight flavor, and didn’t manage to conflict with the savory quality the dish needed to maintain. The overall portion size was quite large. I think I only managed to finish about half of the dish. I thought the dish also might be heavier on noodles than the chicken, but they definitely did not skimp on the chicken.
Supreme Toast - Saint's Alp
For dessert, we tried their “supreme toast with blueberry filling”. It was a thick slice of bread, quartered, topped lightly with condensed milk and blueberry preserves. It was only slightly sweet, which was nice seeing as we were already eating tea which had been sweetened. Perfect simple dessert to accompany the tea.
What’s your favorite teahouse?
Saint’s Alp Teahouse
39 3rd Ave (at E 10th St) – 212.598.1890
164 Bedford Ave (b/w 7th St & 8th St) – Williamsburg – 718.486.3888
So I’ve got a friend getting in from outta town at 10pm-ish and someone (me! me!) is also off tomorrow… So hellooooo personal Friday!
Dixie and I just made a productive trip to Filene’s where I snagged my birthday dress, among other purchases, courtesy of the great state of Alabama. Thank goodness they finally processed my income tax return. I know it’s technically my money anyhow, but it feels like a little unexpected cushion. She was super patient as I tried on dress after dress. Such a good pup. And she enthusiastically agreed with the winner, along with the second I chose as it was too perfect for my salsa plans this upcoming Saturday. And now? I think this little lady just wants her bed!
You’ve given me something wonderfullly uplifting to contemplate this technically Saturday morning as I’m nearing crawling into bed. Next time, let’s end on a positive note, ok Duane? Xx 
Hmmm. It doesn’t look too bad in comparison to Amtrak, except seats are less fancy and it smells intensely like days old fast food. 
grits in the city 