What is The Tea Used in Chinese Restaurants

The first thing that comes to mind during a visit to any Chinese restaurant is the soothing and welcoming aroma of hot tea served alongside dim sums and everything else on the menu. And what if I tell you that there is so much more to it? Why is hot tea served before eating? Whether you wait to try dim sums and soup, the tea has a light bitterness that makes the food taste even better. The primary concern that arises is whether tea can be associated with traditions. As surprising as it sounds, tea accompanied by health influences is a tradition that is full of rich history adventures, no pun intended.

Today, we will share insights on how to prepare Chinese tea, the varieties that are served in restaurants, and the most interesting parts, like the health benefits of tea served in Chinese restaurants. They could be anything ranging from serving hot water and drinking tea in front of food to setting up new hours, but I am sure in the end, tea and its purpose will leave any work we do greatly. Regardless this unique tea experience offered in Chinese restaurants will still be documented.

Types of Tea Commonly Served in Chinese Restaurants

Tea is a cornerstone of Chinese culture, served with meals to enhance flavors and foster a relaxing atmosphere. Here are the three most common types of tea you’re likely to encounter when dining at a Chinese restaurant.

Jasmine Green Tea

Jasmine green tea is one of the most iconic teas you can find in Chinese restaurants. This blend begins with a base of green tea that is scented with fresh jasmine blossoms. The result is a tea that’s delicately floral, slightly sweet, and perfectly balanced.

Hand placing jasmine flower in green teapot
  • What makes it special? this tea is prized for its aromatherapy-like properties that help calm the mind and reduce stress while offering a dose of antioxidants.
  • Best pairing: Try it with lighter dishes like stir-fried vegetables or dumplings to avoid overpowering the subtle flavor of the tea.

Gunpowder Green Tea

No, it doesn’t explode, but its name comes from its tightly rolled leaves that resemble tiny pellets of gunpowder. When brewed, the leaves unfurl to release a robust, smoky, and slightly acidic flavor profile.

Gunpowder green tea leaves with brewed tea in a glass cup
  • Health benefits: Gunpowder green tea is packed with catechins, compounds that support heart health and aid in weight management.
  • Best pairing: Its bold flavor stands up well to spicy and rich dishes, like kung pao chicken or crispy spring rolls.

China Keemun Black Tea

Keemun is a mellow yet full-bodied black tea that originated in the Qimen County of China. With fruity undertones and hints of honey, this tea is perfect for those who prefer more potent brews.

Clear teapot filled with dark Keemun tea beside loose leaves
  • What makes it unique? Keemun black tea has a richer flavor than many other different black teas.
  • Best pairing: Enjoy it alongside pork dumplings or roasted meats for an enanced your experience.

The Health Benefits of Chinese Restaurant Tea

The health benefits of tea served in Chinese restaurants extend beyond its distinct flavors and aromas. With each sip of jasmine, gunpowder green, or even black tea, there is much more than just hydrating that is taking place. Below is how these types of tea add value to our health.

Promotes Digestion

Do you recall tea helping with your stomach after overspending? Green teas primarily aim to help with containing foods. Having tea while or after eating assists in the breakdown of fat and improves its absorption of nutrients.

Helps With Stress Relieve Techniques

Because of L-theanine that is present in green tea, relieving stress and relaxing is very easy sipping tea. This does not make the person sleepy. This is the reason why that refreshing feeling experienced from a hot cup of tea is so common while in a busy restaurant.

Boosts Heart Health

Keemun black tea has shown an enhancement in heart health improvement by boosting LDL or harmful cholesterol levels and also aiding good blood pressure from the high content of flavonoids present.

Enjoying Chinese Restaurant Tea at Home

Has the tea served at Chinese restaurants caught your attention, and now you want to recreate that at your home? The good news is that most of the best Chinese teas can be found online, which is a plus for anyone who wants to enjoy the aromatic flavors and benefits without any hassle.

If you’re on the lookout for quality Chinese teas sold on Amazon, we have highlighted some of the best ones.

Xin Qing Taiwan Jasmine Green Tea tin with ceramic cup on marble table

Xin Qing Taiwan High Altitude Jasmine Green Tea

A premium jasmine green tea that delivers the perfect balance of floral aroma and robust green tea flavor. It is ideal for those who love the classic tea served alongside dumplings or dim sum.

FGO Organic Gunpowder Green Tea in green packaging on a marble surface.

FGO Organic Gunpowder Green Tea

Known for its smoky, bold taste, this organic gunpowder tea is perfect for adventurous tea lovers and pairs beautifully with spicy dishes.

Greenhilltea Organic Keemun Black Tea pouch with loose tea leaves on marble surface

Greenhilltea Organic Keemun Black Tea

This rich and flavorful Keemun black tea has fruity undertones that make it unforgettable. Brew a cup to complement your dim sum lunch, or indulge in an afternoon tea ritual.

Brewing Tips for the Best Cup

If you are looking forward to trying Chinese tea at home, ensuring its proper preparation is crucial to relishing its authentic taste. Here are a few pointers that are bound to make your brewing journey easy.

  • Filtered water always guarantees a crisp taste.
  • It is a must to preheat the water to a suitable temperature: around 175-185°F for green teas and boiling for black teas.
  • Always remember to steep for 4-5minutes; too much time can lead to bitterness, and must use with green tea.
  • Whenever possible, opt for high-quality loose-leaf tea over tea bags to experience full enjoyment and authenticity.

Closing Thoughts

At a Chinese restaurant, tea is more than just a drink—it is a sign of welcome hospitality and serves as a tremendous boost to one’s health. There is a wide selection of types that come from China, including floral jasmine, smoky gunpowder green, and rich Keemun black tea, which can all go perfectly with one’s meal.

You can try to make some of those flavors at home as well with premium options such as Xin Qing Jasmine Green Tea or FGO Organic Gunpowder Green Tea. A cup of warm tea can be soothing and relaxing at home, just as it is at a person’s favorite restaurant.

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Frequently Asked Questions

For the perfect Chinese tea, always ensure you use fresh, filtered water. Additionally, green teas require a temperature of 175–185°F (80–85°C) and black teas need 200–212°F (93–100°C).

The correct steeping time is linked to the type of tea. Green tea should be steeped for approximately 2-3 minutes, while black tea takes 3-5 minutes. For the best results, always check the tea packaging.

Many high-quality Chinese teas can be steeped several times. Each brew seems to add more flavor, with the second or third brew tasting the best.

Dishes such as dim sum, stir-fried noodles, and mooncakes are some of the best dishes to enjoy with Chinese tea. Try different combinations to find your favorite.

Keep tea in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and strong odors. Airtight containers help maintain freshness and flavor.