October, 23rd 2024. We turned nine today!

In Chinese culture, the number nine (九, jiǔ) is associated with longevity. The pronunciation is similar to the word for "long-lasting" (久, jiǔ).

In 2015, we opened our doors in a tiny West Village space. Our goal was simple: to create a peaceful haven where New Yorkers could pause and find moments of tranquility.

On the same day, nine years later, we are opening our second tearoom on the other side of town in the East Village. Let us take you on a little stroll through the charming streets of Greenwich Village, from our cozy 10th street tearoom to our shiny East Village location.

As you meander eastward, we invite you to uncover some of the neighborhood treasures during this season.

History: For decades, this space was home to Bonnie Slotnick Cookbooks, a beloved Village institution.
When Bonnie moved her treasure trove of books east, we found our chance to create something new. On October 23, 2015, we opened the doors to Té.
"If we can keep it open for a year, it would already be worth it," we told ourselves.
You gave us more than we bargained for...
Jefferson Market: Once you passed our favorite bookstore, Three Lives and Co. (ask for Troy if you are ever looking for a cookbook), you would shortly arrive at the Jefferson Market Library and Garden.
The Jefferson Market Library was once a courthouse where famous trials took place, including the case of Harry K. Thaw, who murdered architect Stanford White. Standford White designed the famous Washington Square Arch.
The community-run garden which sits right next to the Library, is a testament to the neighborhood's commitment to preserving green spaces (ps. No food or drinks allowed).
Today, it's a peaceful sanctuary where flowers in seasonal shades bloom in all their glory and New Yorkers pause for quiet contemplation in between their hustle.

As you step away from the library, you'll embark on a delightful "Stoop Stroll." 10th Street between 6th ave and 4th ave is arguably the most beautiful treelined block in the village and its residents dialed up their decoration for Halloween.

There are playful pumpkins, mischievous ghosts, and autumnal decorations galore. Prepare to be charmed by the creativity and whimsy of these enchanting displays as you make your way through the neighborhood.

Halloween Decor: This townhouse has gone all out with its Halloween decor, featuring a larger-than-life decor.
Stay Puft Marshmallow Man and Slimer making an appearance.
As you continue your stoop stroll, keep an eye out for creative and spooky decorations.

Before you know it, you'll find yourself standing before Grace Church's gothic spires.

Grace Church: For a full generation after it was built it was the most fashionable church in New York.
Matthew Hale Smith observed in 1869: "To be married or buried within its walls has been ever considered the height of felicity".

This is a good landmark where you start to feel the neighborhood's energy shift and transform from demure to brat (to quote a millennial) and the streets become livelier into the East Village.

East Village: The intersection of 2nd Avenue and 9th Street is one the busiest corner in the East Village. In the late 19th century this area was home to the Yiddish Rialto, a thriving theater district that showcased Jewish performers and playwrights.
Be sure to check out Veselka, a cozy Ukrainian diner that has been a fixture of the East Village since 1954.
While walking on the south side of 9th Street, you would come across our relatively giant-sized teapot flag. Keep walking...

You have arrived. We are there, eagerly waiting to welcome you to our second home in East Village.

We hope that was a fun autumn stroll for you. Here, have some tea and a pineapple cake!