Bits and Pieces from the World of Tea

• If you're like me, you love the recent infusion of taco trucks and other mobile food vendors in the urban scene. But what about tea? Two Brits have taken upon themselves to start A Couple of Mugs, serving up high grade teas from a vintage 1970's Citroen H van at weddings, bar mitzvahs, county fairs and other events all over the English country-side. 
• Tea cocktails? I met a friend for ramen at Toki Underground last week. Don't let the name fool you -- the restaurant is actually located above the Pug in the heart of the Atlas District. With manga table tops and a smattering of local art, this spot really does manage to capture the spirit of Tokyo. The ramen was scrumptious, but my cocktail was even more memorable - an Oolong Hai (oolong, simple syrup, and Kettle 1 vodka) was the perfect companion to my soup. 
• Or, for a change of pace, head over to Teaism's newest location in Old Town Alexandria. We've got a full bar, including mojitos, ginger limeade cocktails, and our own alcoholic tea creations! Full cocktail list coming soon...
• Chef Allison Swope has cooked up some delectable new dishes for our youngest sister. If it's gray and rainy, as our Spring has been, try a meal-in-a-bowl hot pot: miso chicken meatballs, cabbage, spring onions, and enoki mushrooms will warm you up from the inside. If it's warm and sunny, go for a Saigon Sub or Kelp Noodle salad with Spicy Almond Butter at the high-top tables in our airy open dining room. 
• Soon to come: check back on the blog for the Legend of the Salty Oat and learn the history of your favorite cookie!