Homegrown Herb and Tea

First stop on my Maine food adventure! I was treated to tea time at Portland’s Homegrown Herb and Tea, by my friends Megan, John and Ellie Bea. This charming little shop is dedicated to “herbal teas handcrafted in the tradition of the old world apothecary and the ancient art of Ayurvedic healing.”

Homegrown is the kind of place where the very knowledgeable and enthusiastic owner will interview you from behind the tea bar and then diagnose the blend of tea that best suits your mental, physical and emotional state at the moment. After a few questions about my mental state, recent activities and specific taste preferences I was “prescribed” the Herban Cowboy … a grounding, tonic blend of sasparilla, astragalus, ashwaganda, orange peel and schisandra berries designed to stimulate testosterone and counteract my recent travelling. My tea was like a fragrant herb soup broth garnished with an orange slice and fresh raspberries -- it was yummy, and just what I wanted! We were also presented with a small plate of crumpets, lavender shortbreads, ginger cookies and scones for a perfect mid-day tea time.
 

The shop is located near the Old Port section of Portland and exudes inviting neighborhood coziness and quaint New England style. There are several seating areas for small gatherings including window seats, a tall wood bar, a cushion-filled alcove with a house guitar, fireplace chairs and a private tea room behind a beaded curtain. It is the kind of place where I could easily spend a few hours reading, sipping, and eavesdropping on diagnostic conversations with the customers. The owner indicated that she does mail order teas as well – but that her website is down and it's best to call for information (207.774.3484).