Tag Archives: Baltimore Coffee

The Clock On The Wall Is…

Tea Leave a comment

BlueLemonTeaFood5

At Baltimore Coffee and Tea (here’s their tea collection and list of locations) there never seems to be a clock.  Not that I’m looking for it.  It’s more than when I’m here, I feel an  ease and calm I don’t get everywhere.

The visits are always by happenstance (or are they?), where I don’t think about going, unless I think about going.  The latter part is due to circumstances beyond my control?  Maybe.   If I’m in the vicinity of one then theme music might be going off in my head, and I hope to see the light…

The many visits before (stories can be found here) might tell of cozy and community feeling experiences.  That’s exactly right.

They might also tell of enjoyment in solitude.  That would be the case as well.

There’s happiness where it’s the simplest.  What goes on here is also a separation from the commotion of the outside world.  I’m not in the city, there’s little to no traffic,  the noise is practically non existent, and all the cares and worries seem to disappear.

It’s like I’m the only person on Earth.  Feelings like that come more times than we realize.  Being selfish in that way is ok.  We’ve all had those feelings where the world revolve around us and no one else, but not in that narcissistic sense so much.  Just a feeling of we deserve and have earned a place to just be, and nothing else.

Forgetting when I was here at my favorite and original location in Timonium, while it always seems busy, it never seems crowded. There’s room for everybody.  They say that without having to say that.   Again, it’s just being.

Thanks again to Eastern Shore Tea Company for providing the tea this week, the Blueberry Lemon for my enjoyment, and hopefully yours.

The seasonal tastes of blueberries and lemons, is just right.  There’s not much else to it, and on a day where you don’t want too much, don’t ask for too much, and in many cases just want to be alone or left alone, this is perfection.

BlueLemonTeaFood4

My breakfast sandwich was just as yummy, and while that is for display, it also did go well with my tea.  Not so much for pairings sake, but for my sake.

While the friendly patrons seem to know one another, and it would be nice to be in the know, it’s ok to be anonymous.  In a world where we’re more and more connected, and everyone seems to know you or about you, it’s nice to remain hidden, even if it’s plain sight.  It’s easier said and easier done.   As small as the world it, it’s also so big.  Just like our spirits.

I wish I could make every experience and story this simple.  When I go back and look, they all tend to be.  The teas may change, the locations may be different, the arrangements might be altered, but the story remains constant.  I love tea, it’s a timeless joy that I enjoy partaking in and sharing with you.

BlueLemonTeaFood5

I can’t wait to see what happens next…

Take good care…

Ideen

Hoping There’s Time

Tea Leave a comment

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaFallDrinks5

This week I may be cheating just a little, or I’m just pushing the boundaries oh what exactly constitutes a tea, and every now again I’ll throw in a cup of coffee.

So how fitting is it that I take it back to another familiar face and friend, Baltimore Coffee and Tea.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaOdentonFront

This week I take it to the Odenton, MD location, which is a first time for me.  The area is quiet, it’s connected to residencies and is part of one of the many towne centers you see popping up in every town or any location that has enough people that developers see the need to justify a towne center.  While many look the same, this location and it’s surroundings does feel a bit more charming and cozy.  There’s lots of green and trees in the vicinity, which is always a good thing.

The beverages I’ll be reviewing today were based on a simple question, ‘have you tried these?’  Two out of three is pretty good, and before today that number was zero.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaFallSign

I’ll save the Hot Apple Cider for later in the year, if there’s time.  But the Dirty Pumpkin Chai is something I had to try.   It’s early November, the time is now or never.  More on that in a second.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaFallPumpkin

I like the chai but it’s not setting the world on fire.  There’s truly no need for any analysis. You know what you’re going to get.  I assume black tea and milk since it’s a chai.  But it could all coffee for all I know.  I’m willing to wager zero dollars that I tasted some cinnamon, nutmeg, and all your other fall essentials.  I enjoyed it with a pumpkin biscotti.   It’s great for now and it’s great until this limited time beverage ends.  But I know there’s better out there.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaFallDrinks9

The Salted Caramel Mocha was way too rich for me.  I mean it’s coffee with stuff that I don’t usually have.   For the sake of trying something new, I wanted to try something new, but I could barely get any sips in before my stomach and my head began to ache.  There’s a lot more sugar in there than I can handle.  But again, just because I don’t care for it, doesn’t mean you won’t.  And I imagine I would be on the minority on this one.  No biscotti, or any pastry, was going to work with a drink like this.  But my cranberry and pistachi biscotti tasted great on its own.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaFallDrinks7

But in the grand scheme of things, it doesn’t matter if these drinks are going to work for you or not.  I’m looking at the cup half full here and knowing that Baltimore Coffee and Tea has been good to me many times over the years, (previous stories can be found here) that a minor hiccup is not going to change that.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaFallDrinks

For their coffees click here, their tea list is here, and their growing list of store can be found here.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaFallDrinks4

I made a comment about time earlier.  Because I feel (and I’m inclined to believe many others such as yourself might too) time is moving rather quickly, and there’s so many teas I want to talk about..  I may make more than just my weekly post as we head towards Thanksgiving and Christmas.  I’ve been introduced to different teas, discovered different teas, drinks, and similar entities that I feel a weekly post may not be enough.  So I hope to take this further if I can make the time.  And that’s something that can be easily done.  Yet I still have to make the time for it.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaFallDrinks2

And I will…

Have a blessed one.

Ideen

I Will Not Take These Things For Granted

Tea 1 Comment

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaSalad5

So the title came to me earlier tonight.  And it’s inspired from this.

As I mentioned last week, there are certain teas, stores, and cafes that will hold sentimental value to me.  Baltimore Coffee and Tea Company will always be in that conversation.

BaltimoreCoffeeFront

As you can see in my history of posts, the love affair is real.

The teas haven’t always been the best, but the service from their Annapolis and Timonium locations has always been stellar.

If I were to do a weekly blog just based on this wonderful company, I would never run out of material.   I’ve been here that many times, but sometimes I go just for me.  No blogs no writing, not anything.  Sometimes we need that.  Not everything is meant to be shared.

But as the title says, sometimes a story is necessary.  Sometimes an entity deserves all the praise. I can only do my part to show my appreciation.  Because that’s what Baltimore Coffee & Tea deserves, all the appreciation.  Because I can’t take a place like this for granted.  It’s been so good to me.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaCup

And you know where else has been good to me?  The state capital of Annapolis (my history with tea in and relating to Annapolis can be found here) is the backdrop for so many small things and memories, that are truly the big things.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaCup2

I can’t go the entire summer without not giving love to this magical, colonial, and historical place.   So with that, my most recent visit was last week, and I was going merely for a cup of coffee.

That changed because I felt inspired.

When I’m reviewing teas purchased here, I usually grab them a bag from the display rack, or kindly ask one of the friendly staff members to open up a box of a tea I’d like to try.  They’re so good about that.  It’s opened up many new doors and experiences, I didn’t know existed.  The tea journey is never-ending, and they’ve added multiple dimensions to that.  I’m thankful for that.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaCup4

So how fitting is it, that I decided to order a tea from the menu.  And what do I see but the original or originals, the Eastern Shore Back Porch Iced Tea,  As the description says, it’s your standard iced tea.  There’s nothing fancy or earth shattering about it.  But if you know what to expect it’s going to be just fine.

For where I was, it was just fine.

I’ve never been a fan of just iced tea.  It’s not that I’m opposed to it, but I’ve always wanted something just a little more.  And I don’t mean sugar or any additives.  I appreciate a little natural flavor of some sort.

But sometimes you just want a cup of tea, you want some iced tea, and nothing else.  Well I can’t be too dramatic.  They did give me a lemon, which was plenty.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaSalad

I also got a simple chicken salad over lettuce.   And I found myself in a front corner spot of the store, which has now been a home away from home.  I’m serious when I say this.  I’ve sat here countless numbers of times over the past couple of years, that if I don’t get that spot (or porch in this instance) a part of me feels confused.  And no I haven’t always sat there but I think this resonates with a few people.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaSalad2

In saying all this, the old man or old soul is coming through a little more than I’d prefer. But that spot, and this place is a part of me.  It has a small piece of my heart, and I’m grateful to give that piece to them.

After I took a few pictures I sat there for a while.  And it may have been an hour, but it felt like time stood still and I could sit there all day.  In many ways I did, I’v had before, and I will again.

Man I love this place.

BaltimoreCoffeeTeaSalad7

I’m not ready to put an end to summer just yet.  I’ve got iced teas I could write about for weeks, and maybe months.  I hope I can get to all of them, if not, I’ll save it for another time.  But you can be sure Baltimore Coffee and Tea will be a part of the conversation again, and soon.

How can it not be?

To purchase this tea, along with others, click here.

If you’re in the area, or will be visiting, here’s their list of stores, FAQ, and contact information.

Finally, here’s more from Eastern Shore Tea Company.

Thanks so much and I wish you a happy upcoming holiday weekend.

We’re just getting started.

Blessed,

Ideen

 

Tuesday Jam Session

Tea 8 Comments

BaltTeaMay2016Tea&Cake6

The sweet tooth bug has really hit me these past couple of weeks.  I have no explanation why.  Maybe it’s the sunny weather (or lack thereof), or maybe it’s some inexplicable and something that doesn’t need to be made sense of.  There I go getting all deep on you again.

I believe the choice of tea for this week is only fitting.   Oh and there’s cake too.

Random circumstances brought me back to the Timonium/Towson area and the stars aligned for me to return to a now familiar stomping grounds, Baltimore Coffee and Tea Company.

BaltTeaMay2016FarEast

With past posts I’ve been critical of their stalwart tea, Eastern Shore Tea.

BaltTeaMay2016Teas

One of the many pleasurable aspects of this thing is that I get to be random.  If I see a tea that catches my eye or even one that looks ominous, I’ll give it a whirl.  As I referenced earlier, my knack for something sweet has been permeating.  So with that resonating in my subconscious, I went with the Berry Jamboree Tea.

I’ve mentioned this before.  There is something missing with these teas. There’s been some quality ones don’t get me wrong.  But the oomph and the pizzazz is lacking.

For sure, I thought one bag would be enough.  The jammy elements of strawberry, raspberry, and blackberry should have made this black tea magnificent.  I wanted to feel cozy.  And with this horrific rain we’ve had all month, it would only be so fitting.  The irony was that it wasn’t and it was sunny.  Go figure.  Even two bags didn’t multiply the fruit.  If anything this cup plateaued.

BaltTeaMay2016Tea&Cake6

Regardless, this tea was good enough to drink but it needs a thing or two to put it over-the-top.  The touch of hibiscus was unbeknownst to me until I read the synopsis.

There may be something to be said about location.   Towson has a feel but not the shame charm I remember.  The store nestled in an office park should scream anonymity and a sense of a tight-knit community.  That might be there but I don’t see it like I used to. Maybe my energy level was not at its best on this day or in previous incarnation, but there’s something more.

The first visit or first experience is always the most unpredictable.  You have no expectations and no preconceived notions.  Well there’s exceptions but I think you know what I mean.  My original visit to the Timonium location was special.  But honestly I have no memory of when this was, what I ordered, or whether I was with anyone.   But it was special.  Some memories stay so private and internal, even with the person who created them.

Annapolis, on the other hand, has my heart.  And there’s that small town and community feel I yearn for and that I love.  Oh and there tea variety is a bit more expansive.   I just have to go back and report from there again.

BaltTeaMay2016Sign

I love local and love supporting this company.  Even though this tea was only good, but not a masterpiece, will not deter me from trying some more.  Something tells me this will be revisited this summer.

For more on their teas or to purchase, click here.

BaltTeaMay2016

To sunnier days ahead,

Ideen

P.S. That lemon cake was delicioso!

BaltTeaMay2016Tea&Cake8

Lots of Fruit

Tea 2 Comments

DellaSconeAerial

It’s a new month and the weather is showing signs of life.  And I am grateful for this.   It’s not quite shorts weather but we’re getting there.  I should also appreciate everything that February has to offer.   It’s traditionally the worst month for snow but it’s also the time when we start seeing spring-like products start to show themselves.  And tea is a big part of that.

I feel it’s only right to review a tea that represents the winter well but also contains flavors right in line with the spring-time that is forthcoming.   Maybe I am getting ahead of myself.

And with the tea I’m about to discuss, maybe I was.

I take it back to one of my favorite places, Baltimore Coffee And Tea Company, which I’ve written several pieces on before.   Those links are accessible here, or maybe over here, or somewhere far far away, or maybe just right here.

This is from a recent visit to their Baltimore Area location, which is hidden but everyone knows about it.  I love the set-up and the cozy environment.  The friendly faces behind the counter also add to everything.

Della&Others

DellaWithScone

However, the Della Robia from Eastern Shore Tea was missing everything it was touting it had.  It’s a serviceable black tea but I did not find any plum, pear, orange, and apple that was supposedly in the tea.   And where was the hazelnut?  What I did  get was small samples of what might be fruit or spice, but I don’t know what those may be.

I’m a huge fan of Eastern Shore, so it makes me take a step back when I try a tea of theirs that’s lackluster.  I’m genuinely surprised by this.

My last review I echoed the same sentiments.  What’s going on here?   Otherwise I’ve been championing their products for years.

What you see in the photos is a bacon and chocolate chunk scone.  People are going to love it.  I had an arduous time finishing the pastry as it was very rich for me.  But I’m going to assume I’m in the minority.  And I hope my tea disappointed reviews from here are going to be the exception as well.

And for information on all the teas they carry, go to this link.

For folks in Maryland their store are listed here.  I’ve been to a couple of their shops and it’s always a genuinely good experience.

You can also order online.  Just click on the teas you’re interested in and go from there.

I’ll be back here soon and with all the confidence that the tea will be amazing.

 

Best,

Ideen

 

 

From Baltimore to Annapolis

coffee, Maryland, Tea Leave a comment

BaltimoreCofee&TeaCompany

There is so much good about where we live and so much more to explore.  Sometimes we find ourselves in places, either because of planning, or, because of happenstance.   And just maybe, the serendipitous happens.

I have a plethora of tea related things I want to talk about, but I have called an audible.   And I’m happy with my decision.

I always love driving toAnnapolis.   It’s a place I don’t visit enough.  And because of that, places, foods, and things all seem fresh to me.

And I keep discovering new things!   I knew there was a Baltimore Coffee & Tea Co. location in the area.  But I wasn’t sure precisely where.   And without looking, it just appears to me in all its beauty. Life is good like that sometimes.   And I wasn’t even trying to find it.

I walked in and had no idea what tea I wanted. I just asked the friendly face at the counter, what were the teas to choose from, and she asked me to turn around.   And what a beautiful display to choose from.  She just handed me my cup of hot water and I was left to go on an adventure and discover.

BeautifulDisplay

As you can see, there was a copious amount to choose from.   I wanted to stay local, so I saw the Eastern Shore Tea Co. stash, mixed in with everything else.  Maybe I pulled a rabbit out of a hat, because I landed on the Celebration Tea.  How fitting.  There is much to celebrate being in the great state of Maryland.  And there is much to be proud of being a part of the Baltimore and Annapolis areas.

CelebrationTea

What really stands out is the powerful fruits. The trifecta of Passionfruit, Mango, and Starfruit really pack an amazing punch.  It’s a melange of what celebration is all about.   Throw in the Hibiscus and Roses, and everything about this screams joy, peace, love, happiness, and everything that’s right with the world.  This can be served chill for outdoor parties and complement various snacks and meals.   I enjoyed it boiling, but can’t wait to try it cold when the weather really shines through.

BrewingCup

If you would like to read a previous recap from this amazing company, click here.

I could have stayed at this shoppe for a while. Not only do they have tea, but plenty of coffee, and some charming gifts. These pictures are only just the beginning.  If I could try all these teas, I would.  And in time, I will.

The staff was incredibly friendly and that set the tone for the great energy inside the store.  What else can you ask for?

AllTheTeas

FunThings

The sun may not have been shining today but its only April.  We’re going to be blessed with many beautiful days.  I’m excited for the Summer, but one day at a time.  I will enjoy Spring, I will enjoy Maryland, and I will enjoy Baltimore.

All the Best.

Love,

Ideen