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Subtle Tea

4.5 star rating
based on 76 reviews

Categories: Tea Rooms, Coffee & Tea  [Edit]

Neighborhood: Murray Hill
121 Madison Ave
# 3

(between 30th St & 31st St)
New York, NY 10016
(212) 481-4713
Nearest Transit:

28th St-Park Ave S (6)

28th St-Broadway (R, W)

34th St-6th Ave (B, D, F, V, N, Q, R, W)

Hours:

Mon-Fri. 6:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Sat. 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Sun. 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Price Range:
$$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
Wheelchair Accessible:
No
Outdoor Seating:
No
Wi-Fi:
Free
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76 reviews for Subtle Tea

Review Highlights   

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"Nothing warms up a cool morning like a Peanut Butter chai latte." (in 22 reviews)
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"Love the communal table setting - completely inviting." (in 16 reviews)
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"With the great buzz from the drinks, free wifi, chargers for ipods." (in 12 reviews)
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Sort by: Yelp Sort | Date | Rating | Elites'
Photo of maria d.

Elite '09

315

982

maria d.

New York, NY

5 star rating
11/19/2009

If Anthropologie created a tea house, it would be Subtle Tea. Not only do they sell an amazing array of classy warm beverages, they have gigantic cupcakes, fro-yo (chicks dig it!) and a bunch of homey stuff like candles and soap.

While the pun-y name kind of annoys me, the chai americaine has become my new substitute for coffee and they sell a bomb vegan ginger cookie.

I like it so I must really be turning a corner and becoming a true lady.

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Photo of Michael J.

 

12

373

Michael J.

New York, NY

3 star rating
11/24/2009

Tea Time,

This place has lots of tea, though it is cool looking and all, i dont think it is worth the price, dont get me wrong the tea is not bad or anything, but i personally feel it is not worth the price. The one that i got tropical something something, tasted like black tea and mango did not taste anything else though the name had a whole list of stuff in it. If i wanted to have something with a full list of things in it and taste like onthing i would just take a multi vitamen. Its just A-ok though not in a supper hurry to go back.

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Photo of Amanda L.

 

12

50

Amanda L.

Queens, NY

4 star rating
10/9/2009

I love that I work two blocks away from a friendly little tea place since everything around here is so typical + chain.  

The tea selection is great, and the staff is very helpful with making suggestions based on what you want.  The pastries are good, nothing amazing, but I have enjoyed their muffins + scones.

They also sell tons of beauty and kitchen goodies, like lip balms and green tea drops.  

Each time I come their computer/wifi area is always full.

I would definitely come here more if I wasn't so cheap about buying coffee/tea everyday.

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Photo of Elizabeth L.

 

0

8

Elizabeth L.

New York, NY

5 star rating
11/22/2009

I ADORE THIS PLACE.

I wasn't much of a tea fan before, but I've totally converted. I love the Pearls of the Nile tea, a fruity African rooibos to die for, and the almond cookie green tea is pretty good as well.

The place itself is really cute and communal - one long table of outlets, magazines, and lamps. There's also a couch, and shelves of tea and tea-related goodies.

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Photo of Linda L.

Elite '09

7

95

Linda L.

New York, NY

5 star rating
Updated - 11/12/2009

I'm bumping this place up a star because the staff are so sweet. There are two guys and a girl who are always working when I stop by for my lunchtime pick-me-up, and they are the best. This is the only place in midtown that I've ever gotten service with a smile, and since the coffee and tea are good, I can overlook the trying-too-hard decor.

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 4 star rating
    9/1/2009

    This place reminds me of a teashop version of GOOP, the Gwyneth Paltrow Lifestyle Newsletter. Aside… Read more »

Photo of Paul D.

Elite '09

15

58

Paul D.

Massapequa, NY

5 star rating
9/10/2009

Nothing warms up a cool morning like a Peanut Butter chai latte. I don't even look at the menu board any more. I'm sure their other offerings are equally delicious, (switch to Barry White voice) but Peanut Butter chai latte, you're my first, my last, my everything. (Switches back to normal voice)

They also have delicious scones. A selection of magazines that kicks the poop out of any doctor's office, and a must for any coffee or tea shop, free WiFi. Service was excellent as well. Even at the wee hours of the morning when I wake up.

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Photo of Chris D.

 

0

7

Chris D.

New York, NY

4 star rating
9/25/2009

This is a great place! I've only been there once, but for a solid couple of hours, and I was very impressed. HUGE selection of teas, very friendly service, and extremely comfortable. There's a nice big "family-style" table w/ power hookups in the center for laptops. There's also two comfy window benches w/ tons of pillows.

I had a client meeting there, and it turned out to be the perfect spot. So much better than all those loud, uncomfortable, busy Starbucks. I definitely recommend it...

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Photo of Vivien J.

 

0

19

Vivien J.

New York, NY

5 star rating
11/16/2009

Fantastic, here you pay big money but you get what you want, loved it

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Photo of Eve S.

Elite '09

62

547

Eve S.

Brooklyn, NY

3 star rating
10/12/2009

I was at  a workshop at the open center when I wandered over here. I was drawn in by the yogurt ad in the window. The fro yo was good but a little skimpy on the toppings. I did not try the tea but clearly I have to return to do so. I wasn't so into the communal table; definitely a nice break from the typical starbucks/korean buffet/deli stuff you have going on nearby.

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Photo of Susan J.

Elite '09

68

187

Susan J.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
7/26/2009

I discovered this little gem while staying with friends in Manhattan. I'd heard it was tough to find a place with free wifi, but I walked by Subtle Tea and decided to have breakfast and catch up on email.

It's perfect for freelancers or travelers who need a spot to plug in their laptop or charge their iPod. The vibe is friendly and modern and unlike many other businesses, they don't shoo you away for lingering. I had the yogurt parfait with strawberries, almonds, and coconut, and I would have loved to try other yogurt combos.

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Photo of Jane K.

Elite '09

2206

471

Jane K.

New York, NY

5 star rating
6/14/2009

Everyone should have a place like Subtle near either their home or office so that when the mood strikes you can swing by for one of about a hundred different tea blends, a perfect latte, oat scone or some free WiFi.

I'm a chai tea latte freak and the friendly folks serve up a mean one. While I haven't sampled a wide range of their offerings, I can say with confidence that I've never tasted anything bad from here...well except that strawberry green tea fro-yo ... that shit was weird yo.

If you're a laptop lover, this better be a stop on your coffee shop tour. It's always packed with folks sippin' and typin', typin' and sippin'. Come to think of it, why would you ever leave?

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Photo of Shae C.

Elite '09

10

83

Shae C.

Long Island City, Queens, NY

4 star rating
8/7/2009

They have a great selection of teas! And that makes me really happy. The servers are very friendly all the time, and sometimes flirtatious, but in a non-threatening way. The almond cookies green tea, although it sounds kind of tacky, is delicious enough that I took some home (it has coconut pieces in it). I'd avoid the cinnamon chai or mix it with another variety, as it tastes too much like Big Red chewing gum. They always have a few fruity iced teas brewed and ready, but you can get anything iced if you wait a few minutes.

The atmosphere weirds me out, and is the main reason this place doesn't get five stars. Although it's great to have a place to do work, the large communal table and vaguely mod decor irk me.

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Photo of monica s.

Elite '09

958

220

monica s.

Philadelphia, PA

5 star rating
5/26/2009

Lately, I've been on a random craving kick. It involves: strawberry flavored Laffy Taffy, Original Combos, Reeses Pieces, anything that involves mochi (http://en.wikipedia.or...), and chai lattes. This review relates specifically to my quest to find a chai latte in Philly that is equal to or greater than (unlikely) Subtle Tea's version.

It's been over two weeks since I had my first and only Subtle experience and I still can't shake it. Since I don't live in NYC, I've been desperately trying to recreate the unparalleled tastiness of this latte here in Philly. First I started with making it at home from scratch. It took Subtle Tea a brisk 5 minutes to make mine. It took me a solid hour and I tossed it after two sips. Next, I tried Green Line Cafe (Locust St): too watered down, no spice kick. Tossed that one as well. Finally, there was Chapterhouse (my favorite locale for all things morning beverage). Even they don't cut it.

So, Philly, where's a girl to go for a spicy but mellow, creamy and just right morning chai latte? Save all the clever, "how about trying an actual tea house?" I know, I'm on it. Reviews to follow...

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Photo of Alison M.

 

0

1

Alison M.

Saint Louis, MO

2 star rating
10/8/2009

God this place is filthy.  Seriously.  I'd rather go to Tea Spot and pay a few bucks more than be swatting at gnats while I drink my tea.

Cool idea - love the communal table and magazines, etc.  But I won't go back.  No way.

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Photo of Will A.

Elite '09

31

252

Will A.

Alameda, CA

4 star rating
6/5/2009

Staff was funny and helpful, and maybe even a tad flirty, which is ok by me :)  I tried mixing my flavors for an iced tea (pomegranate (white) and raspberry).  The flavor was maybe too subtle, but it went well with the chocolate croissant.

I liked the decor and would seem to be a cool place to have a lazy Sunday morning.

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Photo of Liz C.

Elite '09

168

265

Liz C.

New York, NY

5 star rating
Updated - 3/19/2009

I'm a pretty stern and unforgiving judge of character. No rose-colored glasses or second chances here; you've got one shot to be delightful, courteous, reasonable, intuitive.

So imagine my surprise when I found myself with a pebble in the proverbial shoe - that Subtle Tea, with its never not-delightful Almond Cookie tea, never uncourteous staff, never unreasonable hours, and never unintuitive presence of the Times crossword - should have been prematurely relegated to the four-star corner.

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 4 star rating
    2/8/2009

    What a cutie patootie, and so earnest too!, on Murray Hill's leg of Madison Avenue. The communal… Read more »

Photo of Esther K.

 

8

11

Esther K.

New York, NY

5 star rating
5/25/2009

Aw, Subtle Tea. When I think of you, I get all blushy and gushy. I've only recently found you, but I definitely have a crush on you. :)

In all seriousness, though, this place is lovely. Their staff is always friendly and helpful. They give their honest opinion about their teas, which is always welcomed.

Its long communal table is lined with outlets and chargers galore, painting Subtle Tea a perfect study environment. Most of the other frequenters seem to flock here for precisely that purpose; the majority of the time I've been here, the for-here folks have been the focused textbook/laptop types.

Overall, it's an extremely comforting environment. I've just gone in and spaced out on one of their plush green window seats for an hour or two whilst sipping iced tea.

Warning: If you want your tea iced, the brewing process typically takes five minutes. I've seen people bitch and moan about this; it's not pretty. But really, the wait is worth it. Also, it's reasonably priced! My delicious iced tea, with tax, regularly costs me $2.55.

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Photo of Megan B.

 

5

14

Megan B.

Winston-Salem, NC

4 star rating
6/21/2009

Very quaint and delicious! We have been here everyday for breakfast. They have fresh berries and yogurt parfait, as well as every kind of coffee and tea imaginable. I only wish that they had more substantial food there.  I have the oatmeal once, but that is about as substantial as it gets!

Try the iced pomegranate tea!

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Photo of Kat F.

Elite '09

510

595

Kat F.

Toronto, ON

Canada

5 star rating
4/17/2009

I'm a colossal fan of chai tea lattes at Starbucks (soy milk, no water) but let's be honest: Starbucks does not know tea. Their Tazo Green Tea With Ginger is among the most revolting conctions I've ever had. The chai tea latte is a solid choice but it's hit 'n miss depending on the location.

Enter Subtle Tea, which came highly recommended to me by more than one NY yelper as a contender for Best Chai Latte Ever™. It did not disappoint. There was a hint of honey and cinnamon in this "westernized" chai that I came to long to for every morning on my recent visit to New York.

In addition to a hot beverage menu and loose tea by weight, you can also buy all manner of tea accessories, tea-infused food products like biscotti, mints, nuts, protein bars and cookies.

As for sweetener, they have pretty much every type imaginable, including multiple types of honey and even agave syrup. The staff behind the counter is incredibly happy and pleasant, and you get the sense that they really enjoy the tea biz!

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Photo of Nauy G.

 

3

36

Nauy G.

New York, NY

4 star rating
5/1/2009

PRO: sooooo many plugs, free wifi, welcoming environment, and NOT starbucks.
CON: it's on Madison and only close to a six that is one avenue over and it closes at 8pm... what kind of cafe closes before 10pm? And sometimes, you can't find a seat.

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Photo of peter d.

Elite '09

1494

440

peter d.

Brooklyn, NY

5 star rating
1/15/2009

I feel odd giving five stars to a tea shop. But Subtle Tea deserves it.

1. Great name. Punny does not always equal funny to me, but I think this is kind of clever.

2. The "8 Treasures of the Shaolin" green tea is the best tea I have ever had. It combines 8 different green teas, and it tastes of pineapple and strawberries. And let's be honest, that name rocks too.*

3: It's just a pleasant place to be. The music is mellow, the seats comfortable, and there are outlets so you communicate with your virtual friends all day.

I've seen the same guy sitting at one end of the table, every single time I've come in. Sometimes he's alone, sometimes he's with someone, but he's clearly using Subtle Tea as an office. And I don't blame him at all. I almost wish it was my office; they serve amazing tea, and I wouldn't have to deal with the girl that sits on my right...let's just say she's a little grabby. And she may or may not have a flatulence problem.**

*I wanted to say something clever about Wu-Tang here, but I couldn't think of anything. Let's just pretend I did. Feel free to send me "You're Cool" compliments if you like Wu-Tang. Even better, if you can think of something, PM it to me and then I'll edit my review and pass it off as my own.
**I don't want to name names...but hers rhymes with Shmane K.

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Photo of Rosie J.

 

0

7

Rosie J.

New York, NY

5 star rating
4/7/2009

Ode to Subtle Tea:
My tranquil, calm Midtown refuge
Of puce pillows on window seats
I say "I'd like an Almond Cookies latte,
with half-and-half, please, Lindsey."
And she acts like making tea for me
Is the singular highlight of her day.
I plug my laptop into an outlet
Which I know will be always there for me
And wave to the cute guy, who's walking back
From Madison Square Park with his terrier
Just like he always does this time of day.
Bliss.

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Photo of Lauren B.

 

6

11

Lauren B.

New York, NY

3 star rating
9/1/2009

I was amazed at the selection of teas- the way they are written on a blackboard is really cute as well.  The workers are really friendly too.  Nice little place for reading, studying, gettin some work done.  I waited for my friend here while she was on an interview nearby..i had the chai..it was pretty good but i wished the flavor was a bit stronger.  I was pleased that the medium was a really good size for the price.

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Photo of MiRIAM w.

Elite '09

2054

2094

MiRIAM w.

New York, NY

5 star rating
Updated - 12/11/2008

Subtle Tea,

You've won me over. Your chai lattes are beyond reproach.

Since we met a couple months ago I've diligently returned to you and time and again you impress me with your congenial staff and of course with the high quality of your chai lattes.

I look forward to our brief, sweet encounters the way I long for spring, the ocean lapping at my toes and Mission-style burritos.

Until next we meet again. . .

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2 Previous Reviews: Show all »

  • 4 star rating
    11/10/2008

    I found out last week that Subtle Tea's iced chai latte is every bit as good as their hot version… Read more »

Photo of girl x.

 

1

10

girl x.

New York, NY

4 star rating
1/31/2009

Wifi: good; free.
Outlets: just enough.
Seating: see pictures for communal table.
Coffee: unmemorable, but not bad.

Preface to Story:

There is one bathroom [unisex]. It's a rather nice, small bathroom. It was clean the first time I went in. Nothing spectacular, though nothing to complain about.

The Story:

I am in line for the bathroom [again]. Ten minutes later, I am still in line for the bathroom.  I knock on the bathroom door.  Nothing.  Three minutes later, I knock again.  A woman opens the door but remains inside.  I hear water rushing.  The toilet flushes multiple times.  The woman does not exit the bathroom, though the door remains open.

I wait for 10 more minutes because I assume one of the employees is cleaning it.  I am wrong.  A frazzled, somewhat haggard woman clunks out of the bathroom with a bag containing kitchenware.  She glares at me.  I walk into the bathroom to find dirt all over the sink.  And what used to be the soap dispenser is now face down in the toilet.

I immediately tell one of the employees about the situation. She happily--note: haaappily--enters the bathroom with rubber gloves, fishes the soap dispenser from the toilet, and invites me to use the sink & soap in the employees-only kitchen-y area when I am done.

This employee was so sweet that my bladder stopped hurting from the long wait!  And I definitely used the employees-only soap and sink.

I think that experience [plus the writer-ly services mentioned at the start of this review] is definitely enough to bring me back here. :)

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Photo of Mark S.

Elite '09

18

132

Mark S.

New York, NY

5 star rating
9/18/2009

Wow, they have a lot of teas here. I'm not a big fan of tea, but after seeing some of the combinations they have on the board, I'm determined to go back and check some out. Wish I had known about this place two years ago instead of going to the corner Starbucks for my caffeine breaks. I opted for the matcha tea, hoping it would bring back fond memories of my recent vacation to Asia. It definitely did the trick. I also got an orange flavored honey straw, which brought back even fonder memories of going to the farmer's market as a kid. But I digress... Aside from the teas, or coffee if you prefer, the space itself is really cool. A long table greets you at the entrance where you'll find a number of individuals camped out, enjoying the free wifi and laptop chargers. There are also a couple benches that provide a bit more cushion if you prefer. AND they have free magazines that you can peruse, exactly what I need for that solo trip when I want to relax and unwind from work for a few minutes. At the back is where you place your order, and the baristas working on this particular day were more than pleasurable and friendly. They actually seemed genuinely nice and not just trying to put on a happy face for the sale. And that's a tough thing to do especially given the horrendous weather that was outside; Subtle Tea provided a little spot of sunshine that brightened my day.

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Photo of Whitney K.

 

2

16

Whitney K.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
2/23/2009

I miss this place so much!

The store is comfortable, free wifi, bright, with plenty of outlets, and great staff.  I went to school across the street and practically LIVED at subtleTea. Tim (the owner) is a great guy, and really cares about getting his customer what they want.  The tea selection is great (there are a few floral teas he can't get because they'd be too expensive, but it's a really innovative list).  My favorites: Cinnamon Chai, Oogasa Sencha, any of the rooibos teas, Almond Cookies Green (try it with steamed milk!), and the phenominal English Breakfast.  

Everytime I come in since graduating they seem to have upgraded their pastries and sandwich/salad choices.  I had the Goat Cheese salad last time and it was divine. They also have a very nice smoked salmon sandwich that I got whenever they had it in.

Try the cupcakes, but be forwarned, you may end up in a diabetic coma. lol They're HUGE and delicious, but you should always find someone in the office/cafe to share it with. For your own protection.  

Miss this place! Next time I'm in NYC I'm definitely stopping by again.

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Photo of Kathleen R.

Elite '09

264

209

Kathleen R.

Bronx, NY

4 star rating
11/14/2008

Apologies in advance to my co-workers and a few friends who live nearby, but I'm not afraid to admit that Murray Hill can be a bit devoid of the kind of personality and charm one finds in so many NYC neighborhoods.  Fortunately, Subtle Tea steps it up on this stretch of Madison with its yummy variety of hot / cold beverages, sweet treats and a friendly, bustling atmosphere.  I had the chai latte and hubby (who hates all coffee and tea...I know, I know) went for a delicious hot chocolate.  We cozied up on a comfy side bench to sip our selections and enjoyed a lovely NY moment.

Also, "Subtle Tea" is a cute, if not slightly cheesy name, and while I may try to be cute, I know I am a huge cheese ball, so it works for me!

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Photo of Hope E.

 

3

21

Hope E.

Long Island City, NY

4 star rating
1/19/2009

In many ways, New York -- midtown in particular -- can feel as devoid of friendly, relaxed spaces to gather and commune as it is lacking in public bathrooms.  But this stretch of Madison Ave near the park boasts not only a fancy new public toilet, but also Subtle Tea.  When I have to meet with friends or clients and discuss things in an un-intimidating (and not terrifically expensive) venue, this is where I tell 'em to meet me.  

The tea comes in many fun and interesting flavors, but this is no den of connoisseurs.  If you're expecting the best cuppa your life I'd suggest a fancier place. I would also suggest purchasing snacks but not lunch. It's not that kind of place.  

But if you want a cheap, warm beverage, infinite time to sit and talk, extremely congenial staff (many of which, I hear, attend the Academy of Dramatic Arts across the street)  and all the free magazines you can devour, this is your place.  If the management designed this as a non-franchise, tea-centered alternative to the Starbucks experience, they've succeeded and then some.

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Photo of JoJo C.

Elite '09

104

116

JoJo C.

New York, NY

4 star rating
8/29/2008

I adore Subtle Tea, and have determined through rigorous tasting and sampling that it offers the best iced coffee in the area.  Better than Guy and Gallard, Starbucks or any of the deli/cafes.  Although it hurts me to say this - their iced coffee is even better than Brasil House.  There I said it! (BH you still have my iced latte love forever!) Its so dark and strong it kicks all those other weakly brewed iced coffees asses!  I have yet to try any of the 12 varieties of iced teas offered - I needs caffeine!

Snacks are tasty.  They sell all sorts including gorgeous tea infused chocolates.  They also have a small retail section offering tons of really yummy smelling creams, lotions, lip balms and body washes.   I went in for iced coffee and came out all body buttered and oolong tea scented - I smelled heavenly!

The communal table offers a ton of outlets to plug in laptops and even iPod charging stations.

This is my favorite place to spend breaks from the office.

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Photo of Mel M.

 

3

24

Mel M.

New York, NY

5 star rating
6/25/2009

As I happily shared with the baristas (chai wallas?) this morning - "Everything you do here, you do well!"   This in response to a sample he recently introduced froyo.   Have you had this? You must.  Froyo in NY is not a new trend, but with beach season upon us what self-indulgent dieter can say no?   Both of the days flavors, chai vanilla and pomegranate white, were delicious.  They are made on site with natural extracts, and the pomegranate is a subtle fruity kiss while the chai vanilla gives you a rich,

The tea menu should be comprehensive enough to fit any one's taste.  The Almond Cookie is recommended - an arousing, unexpected aroma that is as good to your nose as your tongue.

Nothing disappoints on the food menu, but you can't go wrong with a bowl of the hearty Roasted Garlic & Tomato soup.  The pumpkin-colored broth is filled with chunk tomatoes and generously seasoned with enough allium sativum to keep the most ardent vampire at bay.

Do me a favor and don't tell anyone about this Mad Ave gem?  It will be a sad day when there isn't room at the big wooden bench for all that want to sit and enjoy a tea and one of the most chill wifi spots north of Union Square.

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Photo of Phoebe J.

Elite '09

72

134

Phoebe J.

New York, NY

5 star rating
6/22/2009

Great little cafe! The iced cherry tea is my FAVORITE!

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Photo of Angela L.

 

26

34

Angela L.

New York, NY

5 star rating
8/8/2008

LOVE this place! After long trecherous visits to find the best coffee shop that offers free wifi, I finally found Subtle Tea. Bright lights, great drinks, fair prices, extremely friendly staff, casual atmosphere and jazzy alternative music, this place rocks.

There may be times with groups meeting up or people staying for hours with their laptop (such as myself) so it might get crowded, but just lounge around on their comfy pillow sofas by the window.

And not to mention they have great teas! Try Strawberry Chocolate Tea or Almond Cookie Green Tea, very subtle flavors that makes such a difference.

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Photo of yum e.

 

0

22

yum e.

New York, NY

5 star rating
12/3/2008

Yeah, I am going to be much more generous with my stars.

So I have only had coffee at this place. Their coffee latte (make sure to ask for the one on the menu with the MIX -- they love it when you request it) is so delicious! I am a coffee snob, which basically means that I hate regular coffee and needs lots of yummy flavored sweetener! But seriously, I really am picky about my lattes and this is definitely some good stuff. The iced coffee latte is even better.

The staff is amazing, always so friendly and upbeat. It really is the place to go when you want a nice lift in your day. They do have outlets but like a communal table that everyone shares. I would rather have my personal space but maybe it would be a cute way to meet someone? Or maybe creepy. I dunno.

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Photo of Don C.

 

22

23

Don C.

New York, NY

4 star rating
11/16/2008

Very cool spot for us non-coffee drinkers that still like the coffee shop vibe.

There is a long table that seats 12+ people with power outlets in the middle so you don't have to crawl under the table. There is also a sofa in the front widow area and another on the side. Overall a very comfortable place to hang out.

There is a plethora of inventive drinks including chai with hazelnut, chocolate or peanut butter flavor. A hot apple cider was just the ticket for my sore throat.

The staff was very friendly, too.

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Photo of Bea M.

 

9

28

Bea M.

Rockville Centre, NY

4 star rating
3/1/2009

Lots of tea to choose from and quite possibly the happiest staff I've seen anywhere, ever. I had a yummy chocolate chip scone this morning. The girl behind the counter suggested I try it warmed which was a good call. There's a big communal table for sitting and doing some work. It's small but it has a great vibe to it...a happy energy that makes you want to smile and drink lots of tea.

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154

248

K T B.

New York, NY

4 star rating
1/26/2008

Oh Subtle Tea, you are almost perfect!  Why can't you be more perfect?

Upon entering this cute little tea shop I was struck by the big communal table right in the middle of everything.  This table dominates the space and leaves little room for any other kind of seating, but I don't mind that at all.  I think communal tables are awesome and ones with outlets readily available are even better.  Communal tables are good for group writing (good for the group, anyway.  Not so much for anyone else wanting to sit).

The tea I ordered was really fabulous, which gave me great hope.  I also chatted with the guy behind the counter and he informed me that  the weekends are slower than the weekdays due to the nature of the neighborhood.  This was very good news for me, because I would rather hang out and write in a dead coffee shop than a popular one.  Sundays are especially quiet.

Unfortunately, there are some drawbacks.  A minor one being the placement of the table.  Since the place is a bit small/cozy, one half of the table is right next to the door.  And there's no buffer zone outside the door.  Whenever someone walks in, you will get a blast of whatever cold or warm air is going on outside.  This is probably not a problem in warmer months.  But in this sub-zero hell we're living in now, it could be a problem.

The bigger issue is the hours.  Only open until 7 on Saturdays and 6 on Sundays!  WOE!!  It might work as group writing place but only if we're not planning on going late.  Still, it's worth considering once the weather warms up.

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Elite '09

281

549

Lindsay K.

New York, NY

4 star rating
9/24/2007

I am not one of those girls who needs chocolate everyday or I will whine. I don't get fro-yo cravings or delight in a bowl of m&m's. Yet for some reason, at exactly 3:12pm EST, I was knocked, bowled, thrown over my desk chair by a desire for a blondie. Oh, blondies, the sweet, sweet counterpart to the childish brownie.

Onwards, I marched down Madison avenue in search of a suitable blondie. Oh, hello. What do we have here? Tea? A pun? A butterscotch blondie?

It was the greatest 3:17pm EST I've had in months. If I had my mac on me I would have yelped it, right there amongst the free wifi-users, my smoldering moment of bliss. Now that several hours have passed, I am still holding onto that afterglow. Can't you tell?

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Elite '09

225

411

Julie K.

New York, NY

5 star rating
2/6/2007

was looking for other lunch place, and.. I saw those cute cute cute tea pots and cups through the window..
I couldn't stop myself to go in.. and I got a small sized chai tea for to-go.
woooooo~  smooth and tough at a same time..
if I had enough time, I'd get all of tea selection!!
their pots and cups are so adorable.. I need them too!!

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137

205

A G.

NY

2 star rating
7/13/2007

It pains me to write this review - it really does. I don't like being stingy with star ratings but this was the biggest Yelp letdown ever. Given all the rave reviews for this place, I was expecting something spectacular, and perhaps that's part of the problem: my expectations were WAY too high.

There is no question in my mind that the owner has a love for tea. I think he was one of the people behind the counter and he was extremely nice. I just can't get past the fact that I got tea in a paper cup. It was so unexpected and I don't know why this irritated me SOOO much, but it did. The thing about tea is, the vessel in which it is brewed significantly alters the taste and when it's brewed in a paper cup, you get this paper cup taste, which is quite unpleasant.

I was also unimpressed by the tea list that everyone raved and ranted about, but that's because I'm a purist and there were very few choices for someone like myself. Most things were strange concoctions like Key Lime Tea or Party of the Jungle. Just the thought of these teas is giving me shivers (and bad shivers, not good shivers!) In fact, I asked if they had any ceylon tea and the girl said "Ce-what?". That's when the owner jumped in and pointed me to the two options on the "extensive" list.

I did like the communal tables and the magazines available to browse through - this makes this a good place to sit alone. The iPod chargers are an interesting addition but that's about all. I do wish that the lighting had been better; it was a bit too fluorescent for my liking.

The food is all pre-made. I had a tomato mozzarella sandwich and it was quite decent. But my tea was a huge let down. I ordered the Organic Ceylon Needlewood (one of the few teas that had not been played around with and didn't have weird fruit and flower additions to it). I would have thought that it would at least have been pre-brewed before I was served my PAPER cup, but this was not the case. This would not have been a problem if they would tell me how long to brew it for but they didn't do that either (I know it's 4 minutes, but I suspect not everyone knows how long to brew their tea especially since teas have varying brewing times depending on the type). I'm not trying to be a total tea snob here (well, maybe I am but I can't help it), but I was really, really disappointed by this place.

I love the name and the passion of the proprietor. But Subtle Tea, you let me down, big time.

This tea snob is going to have to find another tea house. :-(

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