The Tea Ritual in Bogotá: Historic and Modern Tea Houses Beyond Coffee

Introduction to the Topic

Bogotá is, without a doubt, coffee country. We drink it as tinto, perico, double espresso, and at grandma's table. But there is another parallel world simmering slowly in porcelain teapots and clay bowls. A world of tea houses that have been operating quietly for decades, of Japanese ceremonies hidden in cultural centers, and of Andean herbs that our ancestors used long before coffee arrived at the port.

July 2026 finds Bogotá in a curious moment: while specialty coffee shops multiply like mushrooms, tea is experiencing its own quiet renaissance. It is no longer just the Lipton tea bag at the bakery. There are places where tea is served with the same reverence as a reserve wine.

This guide compares the best options for experiencing the tea ritual in the city, from historic tea houses that seem straight out of a Dickens novel to minimalist spaces that transport you to Kyoto. And yes, at the end we tell you which one to choose based on your mood and your wallet.

Comparative Table

Before diving into detail, here is a quick overview of the options we will analyze:

• Té de la Candelaria – Historic, traditional, affordable prices. Address: Calle 12B # 2-38. Dishes from $8,000 COP.
• Casa de Té Usaquén – English tradition, elegant atmosphere, mid-high prices. Address: Carrera 6 # 119-09. Dishes from $15,000 COP.
• Té Verde (Chapinero) – Japanese minimalism, imported teas, mid-range prices. Address: Carrera 5 # 34-03. Dishes from $12,000 COP.
• Matcha House (Zona T) – Modern, Instagrammable, premium quality matcha. Address: Calle 85 # 12-24. Dishes from $18,000 COP.
• Centro Cultural de Japón (Tea Ceremony) – Authentic ritual experience, cost per workshop. Address: Carrera 7 # 40-62. Prices from $30,000 COP per session.
• Andean Herbal Tea (La Candelaria) – Local, artisanal experience, low prices. Address: Various stalls on Carrera 3 with Calle 13. Dishes from $5,000 COP.

Analysis by Option: Pros and Cons

Té de la Candelaria: The Classic That Never Fails

Founded in the 1950s, this tea house is an institution in the historic neighborhood. Its wooden display cases, checkered tablecloths, and the smell of cinnamon that greets you at the door are a trip back in time. Here, tea is served in earthenware teapots, accompanied by freshly baked almojábanas and pandebonos.

Pros:

• Unbeatable prices: a tea with pandebono costs less than $10,000 COP.
• Authentic atmosphere, nothing artificial. Perfect for sitting down to read or chat without rushing.
• Variety of national and international teas, including Colombian herbal teas.

Cons:

• The decor may feel neglected for those seeking an "Instagrammable" space.
• No matcha or specialty Japanese tea options.
• Service can be slow during peak hours (weekends).

Casa de Té Usaquén: The British Corner in the Hills

Located in a restored mansion in Usaquén, this tea house is the favorite of those seeking a full-fledged "high tea" experience. Scones with clotted cream, cucumber sandwiches, fine pastries, and a tea menu that ranges from Earl Grey to house blends with Colombian flowers.

Pros:

• Complete English tea experience, with porcelain tableware and impeccable service.
• Quiet atmosphere, ideal for celebrations or Sunday afternoons.
• Good selection of black and green teas, with pairing options with local pastries like brevas and arequipe desserts.

Cons:

• High prices: an "afternoon tea" for two can exceed $60,000 COP.
• Location far from the center, difficult to reach without a car.
• The atmosphere may feel too formal for a relaxed plan.

Té Verde (Chapinero): Japanese Minimalism in the Heart of Bogotá

This spot in Chapinero is an oasis of calm in the midst of chaos. White walls, light wood, soft ambient music, and a menu that takes tea seriously. Here you will find ceremonial matcha, gyokuro, first-harvest sencha, and even fermented teas like pu-erh. The owner, a certified tea sommelier, offers guided tastings on Saturdays.

Pros:

• Exceptional tea quality, imported directly from Japan and China.
• Zen atmosphere, perfect for working or meditating.
• They offer tea preparation courses and monthly tastings.

Cons:

• Few savory food options; pastries are limited to artisan cookies.
• The space is small, with only 5 tables. Arrive early or make a reservation.
• Not the cheapest place: a cup of matcha costs around $14,000 COP.

Matcha House (Zona T): Modernity and Japanese Aesthetics

In the heart of Zona T, this spot is a paradise for matcha and clean aesthetics. Matcha lattes, frappés, matcha desserts (like matcha cheesecake), and even artisanal matcha beer. Everything is designed for the eye: the cups are transparent, the napkins have Japanese patterns, and the background music is Japanese lo-fi.

Pros:

• Ideal for taking photos and sharing on social media. The design is impeccable.
• Constant innovation: they are always releasing limited edition flavors (matcha with passion fruit, coconut, etc.).
• Good location, near shopping centers and nightlife.

Cons:

• Prices are high: a large matcha latte costs $19,000 COP.
• The atmosphere can feel more commercial than authentic. It is more of a "trendy café" than a traditional tea house.
• They do not offer loose-leaf teas or ceremonies; everything is prepared drinks.

Centro Cultural de Japón: The Tea Ceremony as an Experience

This is not a tea house you walk into to order a cup. It is a space where the traditional Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu) is held periodically. Guided by a certified master, participants learn about the history, movements, and philosophy behind each gesture. It includes a tasting of ceremonial-grade matcha and traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi).

Pros:

• Deep and authentic cultural experience, impossible to replicate in a café.
• Quiet and respectful atmosphere, ideal for disconnecting from the city noise.
• Includes a detailed explanation of the history of tea in Japan.

Cons:

• Not a place to casually "have tea." Requires prior reservation and a fixed schedule.
• High price for what it offers in terms of quantity: $30,000 COP for a 1-hour session.
• Limited availability: only one ceremony per month, and spots fill up quickly.

Andean Herbal Tea in La Candelaria: Living Local Tradition

On the cobblestone streets of La Candelaria, especially around Plaza del Chorro de Quevedo, there are stalls and small shops selling teas made with Andean herbs. Chamomile, mint, lemon verbena, calendula, nettle, and even combinations with coca and guayusa. They are simple preparations, served in plastic cups or totumas, but loaded with history and flavor.

Pros:

• Popular prices: a large tea costs between $3,000 and $5,000 COP.
• Fresh ingredients, many grown in local gardens in La Candelaria itself.
• Authentic experience connected to Colombian indigenous traditions.

Cons:

• Rustic and unsophisticated atmosphere. Not for a romantic date or an elegant plan.
• Quality can vary depending on the stall and the day.
• No variety of international teas; everything is local and artisanal.

Final Verdict

There is no single winner because the tea ritual in Bogotá is as diverse as the city itself. The choice depends on what you are looking for at this moment:

• If you are looking for tradition and low prices: Té de la Candelaria is unbeatable. Bring a book, order a tea with almojábana, and let time pass.
• If you want a formal and elegant experience: Casa de Té Usaquén is your place. Ideal for a Sunday afternoon with friends or to celebrate something special.
• If you are a purist of Japanese tea: Té Verde in Chapinero is the best option. The quality of the matcha and the sommelier's knowledge are unmatched in the city.
• If you are looking for something modern and photogenic: Matcha House in Zona T is perfect for a quick and aesthetic plan, but do not expect a deep experience.
• If you want a transformative cultural experience: The tea ceremony at the Centro Cultural de Japón is unique. It is worth the investment and planning.
• If you want to connect with the local and Andean: The herbal tea in La Candelaria is the most authentic and economical option. Perfect for a tourist stroll.

And for Malokal readers, we have an exclusive tip: several of these tea houses offer special discounts if you mention you come from our guide. Always ask when you arrive. Tea in Bogotá is not just a drink: it is a ritual that deserves to be lived calmly, with good company, and above all, with a full cup.

Analysis by Option (Pros and Cons)

La Candelaria

This historic neighborhood is not only known for its colonial architecture but also for its charming tea houses that offer a unique experience. Here, tea is served with a cultural touch, often accompanied by a chat about the history of the place.

Insider Tip: Visit La Tienda de Té for its unique selection of local teas. Ask about their special blends that you won't find elsewhere.

Teatro Colón

Located in downtown Bogotá, this iconic theater offers tea experiences before performances. It is an ideal space to enjoy a good tea while immersing yourself in the city's artistic atmosphere.

Insider Tip: Check the event schedule, as they often have tea tastings and talks about its history and preparation.

Casa del Té

A modern place that has gained popularity for its focus on tea culture. They offer a wide variety of options, from traditional teas to innovative infusions.

Insider Tip: Don't miss their monthly tea preparation workshop, where you will learn to make personalized blends.

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