A view of the Gong Fu Cha brewing setup inside The Jade Turtle in Buffalo’s Elmwood Village.
I recently had the opportunity to visit The Jade Turtle, and undoubtedly, it was one of the more unique experiences I’ve been able to find in Buffalo’s Elmwood Village.
The Jade Turtle is a petite and peaceful tea house that specializes in Gong Fu Cha, a traditional Chinese method of brewing loose-leaf tea that focuses on skill. Brewing Gong Fu Tea requires placing an emphasis on technique, patience, and the art of preparation. It is a style and experience that offers an opportunity to appreciate the ritual behind each pour and the craftsmanship that goes into bringing out the character of every variety of tea, which the owner of The Jade Turtle, Jonni Kim does exceptionally well.
What makes a visit to the tea house particularly memorable is its intimate size and interactive nature. Kim is exceptionally welcoming and personable, and takes the time to walk guests through the brewing process all while demonstrating his knowledge of the craft behind a custom-built and beautifully designed tea bar. The shop has a minimalist setup, yet it is all aesthetically pleasing to the eyes which makes for an unique backdrop while enjoying an herbal or caffeinated cup of tea.
A close-up look at the beautifully crafted wooden bar inside The Jade Turtle.
After an experience enjoying my tea, the company, and the experience of The Jade Turtle, I truly believe they are offering something deeply personal, thoughtful, and an experience rooted in Chinese culture and tradition. For these reasons and more, I found it to be one of the more unique things going on around the Buffalo area that is worth seeking out.
If you appreciate tea houses, don’t mind cozy and intimate spaces, and love discovering unique things to do, then you’ll likely embrace the ambiance at The Jade Turtle tea house in the Elmwood Village.
