Kaleisia Tea Lounge is your stop in Tampa for a healthy pot of freshly brewed loose leaf tea. The great selection of organic teas, quiet setting, and nice presentation make it the perfect choice for a rejuvenating afternoon tea break.
Kaleisia offers a full menu of every type of tea you can imagine: green, white, rooibos, black, and special herbal blends can all be found on the extensive 100+ item tea menu.
The SnowBuds organic white tea was delicious: smooth, light, and not at all bitter. The presentation was nice as well: the bamboo based tea tray was attractive.
White tea is a perfect option for those who are trying to limit their caffeine intake as the content is much lower than black and green teas. You will get a small boost, but not the crazy energy jump you may experience from higher caffeine content black and green teas.
Tea can be ordered in a single serving size mug or a full teapot (which is easily large enough to serve 3 or 4). Prices are very affordable with a large pot ranging in price from $4-7. Update: As of 2023, only one size is now offered - priced at just under 4 bucks.
In addition, specialty tea based lattes and smoothies are an option for those with more of a sweet tooth. Around the fall season, you will find a delicious Pumpkin Spice Latte as well as other seasonal drinks.
A few light snacks including appetizers (veggie spring rolls, hummus & chips), hummus avocado wrap, salad, soups, and sandwiches can be ordered along with your tea. There are plenty of vegan and gluten-free items on the menu including a delicious Pumpkin Coconut Soup.
Servers were happy and friendly. Tea was brought out to our table within a matter of minutes.
Both indoor and outdoor seating are available. Non-smokers need to be aware that smoking is allowed outside on the patio. Not a good choice for a tea lounge, in my opinion.
A quiet Japanese tea room made out of local pine wood is the perfect place to study or read a book. If you prefer to socialize with friends, the main room is a better option as it is a bit more upbeat and modern.
The basic design is very minimalistic with little decor besides a few pieces of artwork and a few tea based knickknacks. The decor was a bit boring, chain-like, and bland in my opinion and could be spruced up to be a bit more cozy.
Overall, Kaleisia is a nice place to stop for a tea break if you find yourself traveling through the USF area of Tampa. The availability of a wide range of common and rare teas combined with great prices and friendly staff are a plus.