Coffee or tea? Or both?

After a stimulating weekend of picking out new lighting fixtures, I decided I needed a pick-me-up a little stronger than usual today. Considering that I really dislike coffee (unless it's coffee ice cream) and prefer hot tea, I reverted to a Hong Kong recipe -- yin yang tea -- which I haven't had in ages. It's a pretty simple premise - half coffee, half tea. Purists make it super smooth (and sweet) with the addition of lots of sweetened condensed milk -- and it's closely related to "pantyhose tea" (though that's a new name to me). I just had a shot of coffee, and added hot water with a vanilla tea bag, plus sugar, and voila! At least I'm awake again.

Speaking of tea, does anyone in this town still drink bubble tea? Or is that a trend that's come and gone? Pacific Moon used to serve it in their Montgomery location, but I can't even find it on the menu in the new Newport spot. Essencha might serve it, but again, I don't see it on their menu.

But Essencha is having a tea tasting Thursday - space is limited! Check it out:

"New Teas Tea Tasting

"Date: Thursday May 10th, 6:30-8:00PM. What: Be one of the first to sample and learn about our newest arrivals, paired with some of our newest and most popular menu items on Thursday, May 10th, all while learning how to prepare and serve these delightful blends. $15/person. Reservations: Required. Space is limited to 15 people!" To reserve: 513-533-4832.