Tao Tea Leaf

The shop hosts educational workshops where guests can experience a traditional tea ceremony firsthand. It is also the founder of the Toronto Tea Festival, so the staff depth on tea is real.

Online orders are available for pickup at the Yonge Street store, and pickup hours run Monday to Saturday from noon to 6 PM. Wait for the "Awaiting Pickup" email before heading over, since orders are held for one month from that notice.

It works as both: there is a tea room with hot and cold tea-based drinks and lattes for drinking in, plus loose-leaf tea sold by weight for home. Takeout is also available if you want your drink to go.

The store carries teaware in limited rotating stock along with tea tins and gift sets. Wholesale and catering inquiries go through their email rather than the shop floor.