Beyond the shiny bright lights and cacophony of the “Big Apple” lies a picturesque and much quieter area that is easily accessible from New York City yet far removed from that fast-paced way of life. Upstate New York is filled with charming small towns, breathtaking views of mountains and lakes—especially in the autumnal season—and endless opportunities to indulge in leisurely activities, including the art of taking tea. From well-known brands and shops specializing in pairing tea with honey and chocolate, respectively, to enchanting locations for afternoon tea, four-and-counting worthwhile venues are waiting to be discovered in The Empire State.
Saratoga Tea & Honey Company
348 Broadway • Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
518-871-1419 • saratogateaandhoney.com
Having attended culinary school in Italy and having worked in the kitchens of multiple Michelin-star restaurants from Venice to Sicily, Hayley Stevens not only has an affinity for fine foods, but also a talent for preparing them. During her time working grueling shifts at prestigious eateries, the chef learned to lean heavily on caffeine to keep her alert and awake. “I started drinking espresso, which gave me headaches and left me feeling bad,” Hayley states. “It was a colleague of mine who told me to check out a tea pop-up around the block. I tried matcha, and I felt really great when I was drinking it.” The improvement in her focus and mental clarity was significant, she says.
Hayley’s discovery of and newfound love for tea led her to fully immerse herself in learning about the extensive world of the beverage. This knowledge inspired creative pairings of unique gastronomic experiences with tea. After a move to Saratoga Springs, New York, to be closer to her parents, and serendipitously connecting with the owners of a local olive oil store who desired to open a honey shop, Hayley began to dream about the possibilities of joining forces to bring a multifaceted business venture to life. In 2015, that vision became a reality with Saratoga Tea & Honey Company.
