I recently joined a book group, and we had our first meeting yesterday at Le Pain Quotidien (we discussed the first half of Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantle). . Talk about like minds – we are all tea drinkers, and all ordered Earl Grey at the cafe! It is served in a personal teapot and of course I had to peek IN the teapot — there was a silken sachet with lots of full leaf tea inside, and the paper at the end of the string said Le Pain Quotidien, and no other brand or purveyor. A handless cup is provided for drinking.
I took the tea with no additions, and it was quite delicious! Good tea, very mild on the bergamot. I was worried that the tea would be rough or strong since I was too busy concentrating on the discussion to time the brewing, but there was nothing to worry about. The waiter took our pots for more hot water two more times. The first resteep was delicious, the next very weak and I wouldn’t go for a third again.
When I asked if we wanted to meet again at this venue or change, it was unanimous that we stay, so I think everyone enjoyed the tea and kind service! They offer a handful of tea choices, but the Earl was so delightful I would get it again next time without a doubt!
