Canberra’s first Asian fine tea lounge, Tea Connoisseur, is the dream of local woman Yun “Coco” Zeng brought to life after years of working in hospitality in the Capital.

She was born to a real Yunnan tea farmer family, from the cloud-veiled mountains of the Himalayas, and began working in the family business when she was just five years old.

Coco had long planned to open up her own tea lounge that combined luxury with ancient practice.

Canberra Daily’s Taste editor, Anja de Rozario, visited the lounge to spill the tea on what to order at this brand-new Braddon institution. Here’s what she had to say:

The spring rolls were fresh, zesty and crisp, pairing well with the more robust brews. Crafted with love and care by Coco’s parents (the pâtissier and chef of the joint), they prove not all basic entrees are made alike.

The colour-changing Purple Power iced tea is a balance of green tea, pea flower, and lemon soda. Sparkling and not too sweet, it’s the perfect summer brunch beverage.

The first bite of the White Tea Panna Cotta explodes on the tongue. Flavours of raspberry, lychee, and cream, the richness is best enjoyed with a mellowing dessert tea.

The Black Tea cheesecake is made from the leaves of 3,000-year-old tea trees, matching many of the brews in the shop. Creamy and light, it leaves the taste of dark tea on the tip of your tongue with every bite. Definitely takes the cake.

Coco has tea expertise that is parallel to sommeliers. Her drive to serve tea in its purest form moves towards the degentrification of food. Hours seem to slip by in the serene teahouse, which evokes modern Japanese kissatens. Tranquili-tea in the city.

Book now at teaconnoisseur.com.au

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