Tea lover Jason M heads to Scottsdale’s Mandala Tea Room for their soothing herbal elixirs and teas amidst a serenely modern setting. If you find yourself in Tempe, Tea Infusion gives you plenty to steep into, proclaims Kym C: “They have enough varieties of tea that I could come here 70 more times and never duplicate.” Prissy C swears that Urban Tea Loft in Chandler can compete with any chic Downtown tea shop:  “You can brew it, buy it, sample it or have it loaded! That’s right… you can get Tea-Tinis! Like a martini, but one of the mix-ins will be a flavored tea.” Gives a whole new meaning to ‘teatotaler,’ now doesn’t it?

If you haven’t yet experienced bubble tea, Mark J exclaims, “you are in for a treat/adventure, or a treatventure.” Authentic Lollicup serves “boba” tea and other assorted Asian drinks, as well as a quirky (steamed pork bun, anyone?) assortment of food. Equally bubbly, Helen Y advises “Boba Tea House is a great intro. The black chewy tapioca balls sucked through an extra large straw are oddly addictive.” Her fave is “the green jasmine honey milk tea with boba… take that Starbucks!”

For you homebody types, check out Solo Cafe –  it “feels more like someone’s study than a retail space,” declares Lesley C. Complete with a record and DVD collection, nice lighting, plenty of seating, power outlets, and free Internet, reasonably-priced caffeinated beverages are just the sweetener. And finally, if you’re looking for a for an authentic British tea party, follow Natalie D’s lead to The Phoenician, where “afternoon tea is served daily in the Tea Court and includes finger sandwiches, scones with Devonshire cream and preserves, pastries, a selection of fine teas, and classical music.” Hmm, wonder if they play Darjeeling Clementine?