Ergo For Argo

One of the most unexpected foodie finds in New York City ended up being a place where we didn't even try any of the food. Instead, this is more of the beverage variety. Located a couple blocks away from out hotel, Argo Tea Café became a spot we visited every morning to pick up drinks to start our day.

I've been labeled by some as a "tea snob." I would argue that isn't true because my tastes aren't nearly sophisticated enough to be any sort of drink snob. I'm the one who thinks beer probably tastes like pee (don't know for sure as I've yet to sample any urine), wine tastes like blood, liquor tastes like gasoline, and coffee tastes like dirt. Not quite the connosieur. However, I do drink hot tea on a regular basis and I'm a big fan of Tazo Tea, whether hot or cold.

Also, being from the South, growing up drinking sweet tea is part of life. It's probably one of the reasons why many southern kids become diabetic by age five, but it tastes so good. Settle down, Michelle Obama. I remember (I was a fat kid so most of my childhood revolved around food) always having a pitcher of sweet tea in the refrigerator at home or at my grandmother's house, and I would say it was just as good as any sweet tea in any restaurants I've had.

Ironically, as much as I like tea, I didn't think I'd end up getting anything at Argo Tea Café. I think the mark up on buying tea is ridiculous and it's usually not worth it when I end up loading it with sweetener anyway. Spending $3.00 for a cup of tea just isn't my cup of tea! Zing! I'm here all week! [cue: fake laughter]

Then, I discovered the iced heaven at Argo Tea Café known as "Carolina Honey." Doesn't that just sound like a refreshing way to start your day? How could it not be a great morning when you have a glass of Carolina Honey with you? The more I think about it, the more I think it sounds like a name for a country music band. According to the website description, Carolina Honey is black tea that is mixed with honey, lemon juice, and cane sugar. I tried it the first morning we were there and then ordered the exact same thing the next two mornings. Many people would probably say it was too sweet but I thought it was excellent, with a hint of lemon and the natural sweetness of the honey.

My favorite part about Argo Tea Café actually ended up being that their teas aren't exclusive to the café locations. When we got back to Roanoke, I found a few different flavors of Argo Tea in the cold drink section at Fresh Market, one of which being Carolina Honey! Now, what started as a vacation treat has turned into a regular drink that could become a bad habit. And it was cool to find such a well known taste of the South in New York City.

For more reviews, check out my blog: From Ballparks to BBQ.