The tea is unbeLEAFable!

When the autumn sky turns grey and the brisk air stings your face, there is nothing more comforting than wrapping your chilly fingers around something warm and soothing. A hot, steamy mug of tea can be just the beverage for that. Discovered in 2737 B.C. when a tea leaf accidentally fell into some hot water, it is now the most popular prepared beverage in the world. No longer reserved for just the afternoon, with all its different varieties, tea has become something that can be enjoyed at any time, by anyone.

We previously noted that the Jet Cafe has a large selection of teas. Today was the perfect day to sample some of the selection. We brought a tea-loving companion with us to share in the experience. It was midmorning on a Thursday and nearly every table was full with people enjoying breakfast, catching up over coffee or doing some work at a table. Students, artists, police officers, athletes and office workers came and went in a fairly constant stream. The atmosphere was relaxed and we were greeted with welcoming smiles from all the staff.

After looking longingly at the coffee, we turned our attention to selecting a tea. This was no easy feat. A display on the counter caught our eye.

We decided to try some herbal tea from "Two Leaves and a Bud". We chose the Pomi-Berry and Alpine Berry blends. We were pleasantly surprised to see that they came in pyramid-shaped bags that looked as if they were crammed full of dried flowers and other good things.

After sitting at a table for two, we settled in to enjoy our tea. Fragrant steam arose from our cups and the waters had respectively turned a soft purple and deep red. We swirled the bags through the water and once we decided our teas were perfectly steeped, took our first tentative sips. The Pomi-Berry was a gentle, purple-hued tea. Everything seemed to be blended perfectly so that nothing stood out. It was mild but satisfying. The Alpine Berry had a more fruity bouquet. The deep red colour immediately drew the eye. Our companion says it was a smooth, easy-drinking kind of tea that would also go well as an iced tea. We were highly satisfied with our selections and have planned to try different kinds on another visit.

There are many other kinds of tea available to try, depending on your mood and brand preference.

While we were waiting in line, a customer told us she regularly orders the Tazo "Refresh". We've added that to the list, along with the "Organic Chai". Will we become tea converts? Maybe...we're definitely looking forward to giving each one a try!

As we were preparing to leave, we were advised by Jeff, the owner, that Jet Cafe carries a hard-to-find honey and ginger tea designed to help ease cold and flu symptoms. Given that so many people we know are currently sniffling and coughing, we're sure it is only a matter of time before we're seeking this immune-boosting blend. And as most of the teas are herbal, it will still be possible to enjoy a cup and have a nap!

Due to technical problems, we couldn't get a picture of our Artwork of the Day. It was a gorgeous picture of Venice, with gondoliers steering their way down a canal filled with other boats and bright canopies. We challenge you to spot it on your next visit!

See you soon at Jet Cafe!