Rota do Chá is located on Porto’s Arts District. Close to downtown, this is the spot for tea lovers (tea addicts are also welcome!). First of all, the building is really charming. And once you go through the doors, it’s like you’ve entered a parallel dimension. You’ll feel calmer and more relaxed. (I know what I’m talking about ’cause I’m electric and even I felt like entering planet quietness!)
As you go inside Rota do Chá you find a small little world. There’s a tea store. Everything you need for the tea ritual you’ll find it there. And it smells beautifully! And then, there are small and delicate places for you to have your tea, read a book, talk, think or simply enjoy the quietness! There’s the Indian Room. It’s read. Airy. Then, the Patio. Small and cosy. Go up a few steps and let yourself be seduced by the Garden. On summer days it’s cool and oh so romantic. On winter days, it sort of makes you feel like spring is just around the corner and you can enjoy your tea in the warmth of the Garden Room. If you want to take a look on the first floor, there’s the Ganesh Room. It doesn’t matter what room you choose, your tea will be delicious.
Choosing what tea to drink might be the hardest thing to do. There’s a menu that will help you. Or make it harder to choose. I usually ask them to choose for me. Never been let down! Try a piece of cheese-cake or passion fruit cake with the tea. Lean back and enjoy!
Rota do Chá is one of the best places in Porto to enjoy some quietness in the middle of the city jungle. It’s also very well located. You’ll be in the Arts District – you’ll find lots of art galleries, local designer stores, fashion accessories stores and you’ll be in walking distance from Palácio de Cristal, one of the city’s parks where will find hidden corners where the view of the Douro river and Porto is just breathtaking.