Chinese restaurants have a tradition of serving tea before and during meals. This warm, aromatic drink enhances the dining experience, aids digestion, and carries centuries of cultural significance. If you’ve ever wondered what kind of tea you’re drinking when dining at a Chinese restaurant, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll explore the most commonly served teas, their health benefits, and how you can recreate the experience at home.
1. Why Do Tea Used in Chinese Restaurants?
Tea has been an integral part of Chinese culture for thousands of years. It is deeply embedded in hospitality, wellness, and cuisine. Tea used in Chinese Restaurants serve tea for several reasons:
- Cultural Tradition: In China, tea is more than a beverage; it is a symbol of respect and harmony. Serving tea to guests is a sign of hospitality and warmth.
- Enhancing Digestion: Many Chinese teas have properties that help break down food, especially rich or oily dishes.
- Balancing Flavors: The mild bitterness and subtle flavors of tea cleanse the palate and complement the bold flavors of Chinese cuisine.
- Relaxation and Enjoyment: Drinking tea encourages mindfulness, making the dining experience more enjoyable and satisfying.
| Reason | Explanation |
| Cultural Tradition | Serving tea is a sign of hospitality and respect in Chinese culture, creating a warm and welcoming dining experience. |
| Enhancing Digestion | Many Chinese teas help break down food, especially oily or rich dishes, making digestion easier. |
| Balancing Flavors | The mild bitterness of tea cleanses the palate and complements bold, savory, and spicy flavors in Chinese cuisine. |
| Relaxation & Enjoyment | Drinking tea promotes mindfulness, relaxation, and a more enjoyable dining experience. |
| Health Benefits | Chinese teas offer antioxidants, metabolism support, and heart health benefits, making them a natural wellness choice. |
2. The Most Common Teas Served in Chinese Restaurants
Not all Tea Used in Chinese Restaurants serve the same tea, but the following are the most commonly offered varieties:
Jasmine Tea
A favorite in many Tea Used in Chinese Restaurants, jasmine tea is a green or oolong tea infused with the fragrance of jasmine blossoms. Its delicate floral aroma makes it a soothing and refreshing choice. Jasmine tea pairs well with dim sum, seafood, and light dishes.
| Step | Instructions |
| 1. Choose Quality Tea | Use loose-leaf jasmine tea for the best aroma and flavor. Tea bags can be used but may lack depth. |
| 2. Heat Water | Use water at 175°F (80°C)—boiling water can make the tea bitter. |
| 3. Measure Tea Leaves | Use 1 teaspoon of loose-leaf tea per cup (or one tea bag). |
| 4. Steep Properly | Steep for 2–3 minutes. Over-steeping can cause bitterness. |
| 5. Strain & Serve | If using loose leaves, strain before serving. Enjoy warm without adding milk or sugar. |
| 6. Optional Enhancements | Add a few dried jasmine flowers for extra aroma or a touch of honey for sweetness. |
Oolong Tea
Oolong tea is a partially oxidized tea that falls between green and black tea in terms of flavor and strength. It has a smooth, slightly roasted taste with floral or fruity undertones. Oolong tea is often served in Cantonese restaurants and is known for aiding digestion, making it a great match for stir-fried and savory dishes.
| Step | Instructions |
| 1. Choose Quality Tea | Use loose-leaf oolong tea for the best flavor and aroma. Whole leaves provide a richer experience than tea bags. |
| 2. Heat Water | Use water at 185°F–195°F (85°C–90°C). Avoid boiling water, as it can make the tea taste too strong or bitter. |
| 3. Measure Tea Leaves | Use 1–2 teaspoons of loose-leaf tea per cup (8 oz of water). Adjust based on taste preference. |
| 4. Rinse the Leaves (Optional) | Quickly rinse the leaves with hot water for a few seconds to awaken the flavors, then discard the rinse water. |
| 5. Steep Properly | Steep for 3–5 minutes. Longer steeping brings out a stronger, more roasted flavor. |
| 6. Strain & Serve | Strain the tea leaves before serving. Oolong tea is best enjoyed plain, without sugar or milk. |
| 7. Re-Steep for More Infusions | High-quality oolong tea can be steeped 2–3 times, with each infusion revealing new flavors. Increase steeping time slightly with each round. |
Pu-erh Tea
Pu-erh tea is a fermented tea with a deep, earthy flavor. It is widely recognized for its ability to aid digestion, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve gut health write for us. This tea is commonly served in restaurants that specialize in heavier dishes, such as roasted meats and hot pot.
| Step | Instructions |
| 1. Choose Quality Tea | Use loose-leaf pu-erh tea or a compressed tea cake (beeng cha) for the best flavor. Aged pu-erh offers deeper, more complex notes. |
| 2. Heat Water | Use water at 200°F–212°F (93°C–100°C). Pu-erh tea requires hot water to release its full flavor. |
| 3. Rinse the Leaves | Quickly rinse the leaves with hot water for 5–10 seconds to remove dust and awaken the flavors. Discard this first rinse. |
| 4. Measure Tea Leaves | Use 1 teaspoon of loose-leaf tea per cup (or 5 grams if using a tea cake). Adjust for a stronger or milder brew. |
| 5. Steep Properly | Steep for 3–5 minutes for a deep, earthy flavor. For a lighter taste, reduce the steeping time. |
| 6. Strain & Serve | Strain the tea leaves before serving. Pu-erh tea is traditionally enjoyed plain, without milk or sugar. |
| 7. Re-Steep for More Infusions | Pu-erh tea can be steeped multiple times (up to 6–8 infusions), with each steeping unlocking new layers of flavor. Increase the steeping time slightly with each infusion. |
Green Tea
Chinese green tea, such as Dragon Well (Longjing), is known for its fresh, grassy taste and high antioxidant content. It has a naturally light and refreshing flavor, making it an excellent accompaniment to steamed or lightly seasoned dishes.
| Step | Instructions |
| 1. Choose Quality Tea | Use loose-leaf green tea for the best flavor. Popular varieties include Longjing (Dragon Well), Sencha, and Biluochun. |
| 2. Heat Water | Use water at 175°F–185°F (80°C–85°C). Boiling water can make green tea bitter. |
| 3. Measure Tea Leaves | Use 1 teaspoon of loose-leaf tea per cup (8 oz of water). If using tea bags, one bag per cup is sufficient. |
| 4. Steep Properly | Steep for 2–3 minutes. Over-steeping can cause bitterness. |
| 5. Strain & Serve | Strain the tea leaves before serving. Green tea is best enjoyed plain, but a small amount of honey or lemon can be added if desired. |
| 6. Re-Steep for More Infusions | Some high-quality green teas can be steeped 2–3 times, with each infusion offering a slightly different taste. Increase the steeping time slightly with each infusion. |
Chrysanthemum Tea
Unlike the other teas on this list, chrysanthemum tea is an herbal infusion made from dried chrysanthemum flowers. It has a mild, slightly sweet taste and is often consumed to cool the body and reduce inflammation. Some restaurants serve it on its own, while others blend it with pu-erh tea for a balanced, soothing drink.
| Step | Instructions |
| 1. Choose Quality Flowers | Use dried chrysanthemum flowers for the best flavor and health benefits. Yellow or golden flowers are ideal. |
| 2. Heat Water | Use water at 200°F–212°F (93°C–100°C). Boiling water helps extract the full floral essence. |
| 3. Measure Flowers | Use 1–2 tablespoons of dried chrysanthemum flowers per cup (8 oz of water). Adjust for a stronger or lighter taste. |
| 4. Steep Properly | Steep for 5–7 minutes. Longer steeping brings out a richer, more aromatic flavor. |
| 5. Strain & Serve | Strain the flowers before serving. Chrysanthemum tea is naturally sweet and is best enjoyed without sugar, but honey or rock sugar can be added if desired. |
| 6. Enhance with Blends (Optional) | For a more complex flavor, mix with goji berries, pu-erh tea, or licorice root. |
| 7. Re-Steep for More Infusions | Chrysanthemum flowers can be steeped 2–3 times, with each infusion offering a slightly different taste. Increase steeping time slightly with each round. |
Why Chinese Restaurant Tea Is So Good:
| Reason | Explanation |
| High-Quality Loose-Leaf Tea | Many Tea Used in Chinese Restaurants use premium loose-leaf tea, which has a richer flavor and aroma compared to tea bags. |
| Proper Brewing Techniques | Tea is brewed at the right temperature and steeping time, ensuring a smooth taste without bitterness. |
| Traditional Tea Selection | Restaurants serve classic Chinese teas like jasmine, oolong, pu-erh, and green tea, known for their balanced and refreshing flavors. |
| Perfect Pairing with Food | The mild bitterness and delicate flavors of tea complement Chinese cuisine, enhancing the overall dining experience. |
| Multiple Infusions | High-quality teas are steeped multiple times, allowing diners to enjoy evolving flavors throughout the meal. |
| No Added Sugars or Flavors | Chinese restaurant tea is served pure, without artificial flavors, milk, or sugar, allowing the natural taste to shine. |
| Health Benefits & Digestive Aid | Many Chinese teas aid digestion, reduce grease from rich foods, and offer antioxidants, metabolism support, and relaxation. |
| Cultural Tradition & Hospitality | Serving Tea Used in Chinese Restaurants is a symbol of hospitality, warmth, and respect, making it an integral part of the dining experience. |
3. How Each Tea Complements Chinese Cuisine
Each type of tea serves a specific purpose when paired with food:
- Jasmine Tea: Refreshing and floral, it pairs well with light dishes, seafood, and dumplings.
- Oolong Tea: Its roasted and slightly sweet notes complement stir-fried vegetables, barbecued pork, and Cantonese-style roasted meats.
- Pu-erh Tea: The earthy depth of pu-erh helps cut through the richness of fatty dishes like roasted duck and braised pork belly.
- Green Tea: Light and grassy, green tea is a great match for simple and delicate dishes, such as steamed fish and tofu.
- Chrysanthemum Tea: With its cooling properties, this tea is perfect alongside spicy Sichuan cuisine, helping to neutralize heat.
Popular Chinese Restaurant Tea Recipes:
| Tea Name | Ingredients | Brewing Instructions |
| Jasmine Tea | 1 tsp jasmine loose-leaf tea, 1 cup hot water (175°F/80°C) | Steep for 2–3 minutes. Strain and serve. Avoid over-steeping to prevent bitterness. |
| Oolong Tea | 1–2 tsp oolong loose-leaf tea, 1 cup hot water (185°F–195°F/85°C–90°C) | Rinse leaves with hot water for a few seconds, discard rinse, then steep for 3–5 minutes. Re-steep up to 3 times. |
| Pu-erh Tea | 1 tsp pu-erh loose-leaf tea or 5g from a tea cake, 1 cup hot water (200°F–212°F/93°C–100°C) | Rinse tea with hot water for 10 seconds, discard rinse, then steep for 3–5 minutes. Re-steep up to 6 times. |
| Chrysanthemum Tea | 1–2 tbsp dried chrysanthemum flowers, 1 cup hot water (200°F–212°F/93°C–100°C) | Steep for 5–7 minutes. Strain and serve. Optionally, add goji berries or rock sugar for sweetness. |
| Green Tea (Longjing, Sencha, etc.) | 1 tsp green tea loose leaves, 1 cup hot water (175°F–185°F/80°C–85°C) | Steep for 2–3 minutes. Strain and serve. Avoid boiling water to prevent bitterness. |
| Eight Treasures Tea (Ba Bao Cha) | Goji berries, dried chrysanthemum, jujube (red dates), rock sugar, green tea leaves, licorice root, ginseng, dried longan | Combine all ingredients in a teapot, pour in hot water (200°F/93°C), and steep for 5–7 minutes. Strain and enjoy. |
| Ginger Honey Tea | 1-inch ginger slice, 1 tsp honey, 1 cup hot water (200°F/93°C) | Steep fresh ginger in hot water for 5 minutes. Stir in honey before serving. Helps with digestion and immunity. |
| Lemon Honey Green Tea | 1 tsp green tea leaves, 1 cup hot water (175°F/80°C), 1 tsp honey, 1 slice lemon | Steep green tea for 2–3 minutes, strain, then add honey and lemon. Serve warm. |
| Goji Berry Tea | 1 tbsp dried goji berries, 1 cup hot water (200°F/93°C) | Steep for 5 minutes until the berries plump up. Drink the tea and eat the softened berries. |
| Wolfberry & Red Date Tea | 5 dried red dates (jujube), 1 tbsp goji berries, 1 cup hot water (200°F/93°C) | Cut red dates in half, add goji berries, and steep for 5–7 minutes. Optionally, add rock sugar for sweetness. |
4. The Health Benefits of Teas Used in Chinese Restaurants
Chinese teas are not just flavorful; they also offer numerous health benefits:
Aiding Digestion and Gut Health
Pu-erh and oolong teas contain compounds that promote digestion by breaking down fats and aiding in nutrient absorption. Drinking tea with meals can prevent bloating and discomfort.
Boosting Metabolism and Weight Management
Oolong and green tea are well-known for their metabolism-boosting effects. They contain catechins and caffeine, which help the body burn fat more efficiently.
Reducing Inflammation and Stress
Chrysanthemum and jasmine teas are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that help reduce stress and inflammation in the body. Their soothing aromas also promote relaxation and mental clarity.
Supporting Heart Health and Detoxification
Many Chinese teas contain polyphenols and antioxidants that help lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar levels, and support cardiovascular health.
5. How to Recreate the Tea Used in Chinese Restaurants Experience at Home
Want to enjoy the same tea-drinking experience at home? Here’s how:
Choosing High-Quality Tea Leaves
- Look for loose-leaf tea instead of tea bags for a richer flavor and better quality.
- Buy from reputable tea shops or online stores specializing in Chinese teas.
Proper Brewing Techniques
- Jasmine & Green Tea: Brew at 175°F (80°C) for 2–3 minutes to avoid bitterness.
- Oolong Tea: Use water around 185°F (85°C) and steep for 3–5 minutes.
- Pu-erh Tea: Rinse the leaves first, then brew at 200°F (93°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Chrysanthemum Tea: Use boiling water and steep for 5–7 minutes.
| Tea Type | Water Temperature | Steeping Time | Special Instructions |
| Jasmine Tea | 175°F (80°C) | 2–3 minutes | Avoid over-steeping to prevent bitterness. |
| Oolong Tea | 185°F (85°C) | 3–5 minutes | Can be steeped multiple times for evolving flavors. |
| Pu-erh Tea | 200°F (93°C) | 3–5 minutes | Rinse leaves first with hot water to awaken flavors. |
| Green Tea | 175°F (80°C) | 2–3 minutes | Use lower temperatures to preserve delicate flavors. |
| Chrysanthemum Tea | 212°F (100°C) | 5–7 minutes | Steep longer for stronger floral notes; can be blended with pu-erh. |
Serving Tea Like a Traditional Chinese Restaurant
- Use a small teapot and serve in porcelain cups.
- Pour tea in small amounts and refill frequently to keep it warm and fresh.
- Avoid adding sugar or milk—Chinese teas are meant to be enjoyed in their natural form.
6. Where to Buy Authentic Chinese Teas
To find high-quality Chinese teas, consider these sources:
- Local Tea Shops: Specialty stores often carry fresh, high-quality loose-leaf tea.
- Online Retailers: Reputable websites like Teavivre, Yunnan Sourcing, and Mei Leaf offer a wide selection.
- Asian Supermarkets: Many Chinese grocery stores stock `-quality teas at affordable prices.
When buying tea, look for:
- Whole, unbroken leaves (avoid crushed or powdery tea).
- A fresh aroma, free of artificial flavors or additives.
- A source from reputable tea-growing regions such as Fujian, Yunnan, or Zhejiang.
7. Final Thoughts
Drinking Tea Used in Chinese Restaurants is more than just a habit it’s a practice rooted in culture, health, and mindfulness. Whether you’re enjoying a cup at your favorite restaurant or brewing it at home, these teas offer numerous benefits, from digestion support to relaxation. By choosing high-quality tea and brewing it properly, you can enjoy the same authentic flavors and health benefits that have been cherished for centuries.
Next time you sip on a warm cup of tea at a Chinese restaurant, you’ll know exactly what’s in your cup and why it’s so special. Cheers to a healthier, more mindful way of enjoying tea!