The Jackson Avenue Tea Company
418 South Gay St, Knoxville, TN
Crema's Take
“Tucked inside another storefront, this intimate tea shop punches way above its size with an impressive global selection of loose-leaf teas curated by a genuinely knowledgeable and polite owner. The ginger peach white tea has earned devoted fans who buy it by the pound, and the space transforms beautifully for special occasions like birthday afternoon teas, making it feel like a hidden gem for tea lovers willing to seek it out.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
There really isn’t a reason for an actual tea drinker to seek this place out. It’s actually just a bookshelf inside of another store. There isn’t anyone who seems to answer the phone when you call, and there doesn’t seem to be any staff dedicated to helping people in person. You could honestly probably find the same (or better) selection of teas at the co-op or maybe even at Marshalls or HomeGoods. Most blends seem to be trendy flavors they have concocted for impulse buys. There’s also nothing here that caters to the ceremonial tea experience, no pouring pots, no cups, just a little lose leaf straining ball and some mason jar steepers for $25. Two stars is being generous, I was really tempted to leave only 1 for the false advertising alone: A bookshelf, with bags of tea on it does not constitute a “tea company” and it’s not on Jackson avenue, it’s on Gay street.
My husband and I love Jackson Avenue Tea Company! The owner is very polite and the teas are flavorful and interesting. The ginger peach white tea is our favorite; we order it by the pound!
We had afternoon tea for my daughter’s 13th birthday, and it was absolutely beautiful. Exceeded expectations in every way. The food and drink was amazing. The decor was perfect, and the vibe in the Pharmacy was just right. We even bought the blueberry mango tea to take home. Cannot recommend highly enough for a special event or just a family get together.
I would call this a medium size shop packed with some of the best selection of teas from around the world. Pre-packaged in a couple of weights, as well as bulk. Staff is super helpful and knowledgeable of their product. And if you are in for just a cup of tea to take out, or try one you are interested in, they have various sizes of most tea selections and will prepare perfectly. Staff is skilled in how to prepare the right amount and at the right temperature, which is an important feature of enjoying such a beverage. This spot has become my local source for quality loose leave teas of all types.
Unfortunately due to COVID, I wasn't able to experience the full shopping experience inside the shop. But my sister and I ordered online and had a great experience! The selection is vast and unique. The descriptions and images on the website are informative and enticing. We ordered in the late afternoon and our box of goodies arrived THE NEXT DAY! It was so fast. They even included a little note, some stickers, magnets, and a reusable grocery bag. This business is incredible, and I can't wait to make my next purchase!! (PS The pricing is affordable with these great quality teas which makes it all the more encouraging to support local!)
Crema Reviews
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