Hello, tea enthusiasts! Today, I’m going to dive into the world of Mariage Frères – a tea house that has been synonymous with luxury tea for over 160 years. Most of you, you may not know Mariage Frères. Although this is a company it is important in the Tea House realm. Trust me, this is going to be an interesting article, especially if you are interested in Tea Houses. From their humble beginnings in 1854 to becoming one of the most respected and renowned tea houses in the world, Mariage Frères has a rich history that is reflected in every cup of tea they serve. With a focus on quality, craftsmanship, and innovation, Mariage Frères has been a pioneer in the tea industry, introducing new blends and perfecting traditional ones. Most of you may live in a city that has a Mariage Frères tea house (I know there is one near me). Join me as we explore the history, teas, and unique experiences that Mariage Frères has to offer. So, grab a cup of your favorite tea, and let’s get started on this journey into the world of Mariage Frères.
History
Mariage Frères is a legendary tea house that is steeped in history, and no, I don’t mean tea steeped! The company was founded in France in 1854 by brothers Henri and Edouard Mariage, who were themselves descendants of a long line of tea traders. They started by importing tea from China and selling it in France, and over time, their business grew to become one of the most famous tea houses in the world.
Mariage Frères has a long and fascinating history, filled with twists and turns. In the early days, the Mariage brothers had to overcome various challenges, including the French government’s ban on importing tea from China, which was the only place where they could source their beloved tea. Undeterred, they persevered and eventually succeeded in getting the ban lifted.
Over the years, Mariage Frères continued to innovate and expand, introducing new blends and varieties of tea and even creating its own unique tea-scented candles and fragrances. Today, the company has more than 30 boutiques around the world, including in Paris, London, Tokyo, and New York City, and it remains a beloved destination for tea lovers everywhere.
Locations
Paris
The company has around 11 tea houses in Paris. Here are the ones I think are worth visiting.
The first and most famous tea house is located in the Marais district of Paris. This location has been open since 1854 and is often referred to as the “historical temple of tea.” It is a stunning location with classic decor that transports you back to the 19th century.
The second tea house is located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district of Paris. This location is a more modern and contemporary tea house. It features an open kitchen and a bar that serves tea cocktails, making it a unique and trendy spot to enjoy tea.
The third tea house is located in the Rive Gauche district of Paris. It is a small and cozy tea house that is perfect for an intimate tea experience. It has a wide range of Mariage Frères tea blends available, including some rare and exclusive teas.
The fourth tea house is located in the Place de la Madeleine district of Paris. This tea house is the newest and most modern of the four locations. It features a tea salon, a tea museum, and a boutique where you can purchase Mariage Frères tea blends and tea-related accessories.
England
The London tea house is located in the elegant neighborhood of Covent Garden, a stone’s throw away from the Royal Opera House. The interior of the tea house is a reflection of the brand’s signature style – a mix of classic and contemporary elements, with black and gold accents, and luxurious furnishings. Mariage Frères London is not only a place for tea lovers to enjoy the brand’s exceptional teas, but also a spot to savor delicious French-inspired dishes, including a range of sweet and savory treats that complement the teas. If you find yourself in London and are in search of a cozy and sophisticated tea house experience, Mariage Frères is a must-visit destination.
Japan
Mariage Frères has not one, not two, but four tea houses in Japan! The tea company has been welcomed with open arms in this country, known for its love of tea culture.
Mariage Frères has two locations in Tokyo:
- One in the famous Ginza district and one in the trendy Aoyama neighborhood. The Ginza location is in a beautifully designed building with an impressive collection of teas and a serene atmosphere.
- On the other hand, the Aoyama location is more modern and chic, with an indoor tea garden and a tea museum.
The tea company also has two locations in Osaka.
- The Osaka Umeda location is in the Hankyu Umeda department store, making it a convenient location for those shopping in the area.
- The Osaka Shinsaibashi location is a more classic tea house with a traditional atmosphere. Unfortunately, this Tea house is permanently closed
All of Mariage Frères’ Japanese tea houses offer an extensive collection of teas, including rare and exclusive blends. You can also find delicious food pairings and tea-infused desserts to accompany your tea. The tea houses also offer tea tasting sessions and tea workshops, providing tea enthusiasts with a deeper understanding of Mariage Frères’ tea culture and heritage.
Tea Blends
When it comes to Mariage Frères, their tea blends are the stuff of legends. They’ve been blending teas for over 160 years, and they’ve gotten pretty darn good at it. Their tea blends are a testament to their expertise and dedication to the craft. The company has over 500 tea blends available, ranging from traditional black teas to exotic and unique blends. They use only the highest quality tea leaves and ingredients, ensuring that each blend is of exceptional quality and taste.
Marco Polo
One of the most popular tea blends is the Marco Polo, named after the famous Venetian explorer. It’s a black tea blend with fruit and floral notes, making it perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a dessert tea.
Wedding Imperial
Another popular blend is the Wedding Imperial, which is a green tea with jasmine and bergamot. It’s a delicate blend that’s perfect for those who prefer lighter, less robust teas.
French Breakfast
For those who prefer something with a bit more punch, there’s the French Breakfast blend. It’s a black tea blend that’s perfect for starting your day off right, with a bold flavor that will wake you up and get you going.
Paris Breakfast
Other popular blends include the Paris Breakfast, a black tea with vanilla and caramel notes, and the Eros, a green tea with rose petals and red fruit.
No matter what your taste, Mariage Frères has a tea blend that will satisfy you. Their blends are the result of years of experience and a dedication to quality, making them some of the best teas you’ll ever taste. You can explore even more options on their website (https://www.mariagefreres.com)
Tea Accessories
Mariage Frères is more than just a tea house; it’s a lifestyle. And what better way to complement your tea-drinking experience than with their elegant and sophisticated tea accessories? From teacups to teapots, Mariage Frères offers a wide range of exquisite tea accessories that are both functional and beautiful.
One of their most popular accessories is their Tea-For-One set. This set includes a porcelain teapot, tea cup, and saucer, all adorned with Mariage Frères’ signature logo. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a cup of tea in solitude or for those who want to share a special moment with a loved one.
If you’re a fan of iced tea, Mariage Frères has you covered with their iced tea jug. This elegant glass jug comes with a built-in strainer, making it easy to make and serve iced tea at home.
And of course, no tea experience is complete without the perfect teaspoon. Mariage Frères offers a range of teaspoons, from their classic silver-plated spoon to their colorful porcelain spoons that add a touch of whimsy to your tea-drinking experience.
In conclusion, Mariage Frères is a company that has a long history of producing exceptional tea blends and creating elegant tea houses. Their four tea houses in Paris are a must-visit destination for any tea lover, offering a unique and memorable tea experience. With over 500 tea blends available, Mariage Frères has something to offer everyone.
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[…] Side note: Although Mariage Frères is amongst the most famous tea houses in the world, I will not be covering it in this article. I’ve prepared an entire article just for Mariage Frères and you can have a look at it here. […]