FAQ

Where's the shop?

Our shop is located right in the heart of Ballard, just a block south of Market Street at 5405 Ballard Avenue West. Several bus routes stop nearby, and there is ample parking on Ballard Avenue, as well as unmetered parking a block to the south on Shilshole.

What are your hours?

We are open Monday-Saturday 8AM to 8pm. On Sundays we open at 8AM but close at 6PM. Holiday hours are provided with a banner on our homepage as the holiday nears.

What do you have to eat?

We sell freshly baked pastries from several local partners, including Macrina Bakery, Rila Bakery, Alexandra's Macarons, and cakes (including gluten free options!) from Sweet Violette. On Saturdays and Sundays only, we offer sweet and savory options from Fuji Bakery. Finally, we are proud to stock beautiful handmade wagashi from Tokara Japanese Confectionary in Phinney Ridge. You are sure to find something perfect to accompany your tea.

Can I reserve a table for a tea session at your shop?

You can absolutely reserve a table for tea sessions to ensure you have a personalized experience. Reservations can be made by calling us, emailing us at info@mirotea.com, or stopping by the shop. We can also accommodate small groups or special occasions with advance notice.

Do you sell teaware and accessories in addition to tea?

Yes, we have a carefully curated selection of teaware and accessories, including teapots, cups, infusers, tea canisters, and travel mugs. These items are chosen to complement our teas and enhance your brewing experience.

Can I bring my own teapot or cup to use in-store?

Yes, we welcome customers to bring their own teapots, gongfu sets, or cups to use in-store. This is part of our commitment to sustainability and reducing waste. Plus, it makes your tea experience even more personal!

Are pets allowed in the physical store?

While pets are not permitted inside due to health and safety regulations, service animals are always welcome. We also have outdoor seating available, where pets are welcome to join you.

Do you host events or workshops at the tea shop?

Yes, we host a variety of events, including tea workshops, pairing sessions, and cultural education experiences. These events are designed to deepen your appreciation for tea and its history. We also offer private workshops for groups and corporate events. The Miro Tea Studio, a custom-built space for such offerings, is currently under construction just a few blocks away from our shop, and will become the focal point for all Miro events and workshops in the coming year!

Do you have WiFi?

Of course! Our WiFi password is conveniently displayed next to the register, or available upon request from any member of staff. We pride ourselves on providing a comfortable and inviting space, conducive to focus and work of all types. In addition to the all-important work of relaxation and self-care.

What makes your tea shop unique compared to others?

Our tea shop is a blend of tradition and modernity. We focus on sourcing high-quality, artisan teas from around the world and introducing customers to the stories and culture behind each cup. Our goal is to create an inviting space where tea enthusiasts and newcomers alike can enjoy exceptional teas while learning about global tea traditions.

What music are you playing?

Our staff enjoys wide latitude in setting the tone musically--we sport a fairly eclectic mix of tastes, but always strive to keep the music unobtrusive and pleasant! If you like what you hear, just ask a staff member and we'll give you the details. If you don't like what you hear, or the music creeps up a little too loud, just let us know and we'll adjust accordingly.

What kinds of tea do you have?

We carry many exceptional teas in every category, from all around the world. Whether you prefer your tea black, green, white, oolong, herbal, or puerh, we have something that will excite you.

If I'm new to tea, where do I start?

Our staff is quite experienced at helping our customers zero in on a tea experience that will delight. Whether you have a favorite already or are completely new to the world of tea, we are happy to work with you to find the right cup. Just ask for help and we'll provide!

Do you have any organic or pesticide-free teas?

Organic certification requirements vary widely the world over--several of our teas are certified organic and labeled as such, however organic certification is not our highest priority when sourcing teas. We prioritize cleanliness, craftsmanship, integrity in production, and teas grown with the least amount of pesticides and chemicals as possible. Often times, many of these growers are not certified, but do in fact practice organic farming--we work primarily with small growers possessing multi-generational experience who view tea making as a craft and an art. We are a shop that exclusively provides specialty teas, and in the course of their rigorous production all over the world, many growers will be certified, however many more will not.

Can I sample teas before purchasing?

Yes, we encourage sampling to help you find the perfect tea. In-store, we have a rotating sampling station where you can taste a daily rotation of four teas. For teas not featured on the sample station, ordering a cup is the best way to sample them and decide whether you'd like to purchase in bulk. Online, we offer sample-size packages so you can explore our collection at home.

Do you offer seasonal or limited-edition teas?

We introduce new seasonal teas and limited-edition blends throughout the year. These reflect seasonal flavors, such as floral teas in spring or spiced blends in winter.

What’s the difference between loose-leaf tea and tea bags?

Loose-leaf tea uses whole leaves, providing better flavor and aroma. Tea bags often contain smaller particles or “fannings,” which can result in a less complex taste. Loose-leaf tea is ideal for those seeking the full experience, while tea bags offer convenience.

Are your teas fair trade or ethically sourced?

Yes, we prioritize working with suppliers and farms that adhere to ethical labor practices. Many of our teas come directly from producers who ensure fair wages and safe working conditions for their workers.

Are your teas gluten-free or allergen-free?

Yes, all our teas are naturally gluten-free, and we clearly label any products that may contain potential allergens, such as blends with nuts or dairy.

Do you offer herbal or caffeine-free options?

Yes, we have a wide range of herbal infusions, based around staid herbs like chamomile, rooibos, peppermint, and fireweed. These options are naturally caffeine-free and perfect for evening relaxation.

How do I brew my tea?

The tea we sell can be successfully brewed by adhering to a simple set of parameters per category of tea.

Starting with a baseline of 6 grams of tea (around two tablespoons) per 16 ounces of hot water:

Most black teas brew for a minute and a half in boiling water.

Green teas generally brew for a minute and a half in 170 degree water.

Rolled oolong teas benefit from an initial rinse (about a five second steep before dumping the water) in boiling water, followed by a three minute steep. Unrolled oolongs do not need to be rinsed, and brew for three minutes in 190 degree water.

Raw Puerhs also get a rinse in boiling water before steeping for 1 minute. Ripe puerhs, on the other hand, steep for 4 minutes after their rinse.

White teas brew for four minutes in 170 degree water.

Herbal teas brew in boiling water for four minutes, but will only develop stronger flavor rather than any unpleasant taste should you choose to steep for longer.

We have found that certain teas within these categories show their best selves with modified brewing instructions--the specific tips for each tea can be found on our shop page for the tea in question!

We also provide these parameters on a helpful card that we include with each online purchase.

All this being said, we encourage everyone to play around with their method of brewing to find their own ideal cup. A slightly longer or shorter steep, hotter or colder water, more or less tea, and multiple steeping can all result in a pleasant surprise for your individual palate!

Can I take some home?

Of course! If you've enjoyed your tea and wish to have some to brew on your own, we are happy to bag it up for your personal use. From 1 and 2 ounce portions good for 5-10 cups, pricier treats, and single herbs, to whole pounds for those who need a reliable supply. All of our teas are loose leaf, but we also sell fill-it-yourself tea bags and infusers, among all sorts of practical and attractive teaware.

How can I place an order on your website?

Simply visit our website, browse our selection, and add your desired items to the cart. When ready, proceed to checkout, where you can securely enter your shipping and payment information.

Do you ship internationally?

We do not offer international shipping outside of the United States and Canada. When shipping to Canada, we are not responsible for customs and duties.

How long does shipping take for online orders?

Domestic orders typically arrive within 3–7 business days. International orders to Canada may take 7–14 business days, depending on customs processing and local delivery services.

Can I track my order once it’s shipped?

Yes, once your order ships, we’ll send you a tracking number via email. You can use this number to monitor your package’s progress.

Do you offer free shipping on large orders?

Yes, we provide free domestic shipping on orders over $75. For international orders, discounted shipping may apply based on the order size.

What if my package arrives damaged or incorrect?

If your order arrives damaged or contains the wrong items, contact our customer service team immediately at orders@mirotea.com. We’ll work to resolve the issue promptly by offering a replacement, exchange, or refund.

Can I purchase gift cards online?

Yes, digital gift cards are available in various denominations and can be emailed directly to the recipient.

How do I find information about allergens or ingredients for online purchases?

Each product page includes a detailed description of ingredients and allergen information. If you have further questions, feel free to reach out to us before purchasing.