My friends and I arrived there at 8.40 pm. The guy told us when we ordered that they run until 9 pm so, if we wanted anything after that time, he would serve it but to go. We all understood he meant if we ordered anything else.

The tea cups arrived. They were dirty on the inside, I assumed they had never been washed with proper dishwasher, as you could see a black / reddish coloured on the interior part, remained from other teas they served. It looked weird but we decided not to complain, afraid he would spit in our teas.

At 5 to 9 he shut down the music and came with "to go" cups and told us that they are closed now and we can take our drinks to go. I asked him why did they serve if they weren't willing to let us finish, and he answered back, telling me to be more careful next time and pay more attention to what he had to say. I asked him not to be condescending and he said he is sure he is. I told him he is rude and I want to make a complaint to the manager. He said he is the manager and I can consider my complaint submitted and just leave. I told him I will find a way to contact his bosses and place a review on the internet, which is the one you are reading now.

I had been there before, never too impressed. Food is not so good, their chai-latte is terrible, but since it is one of few tea places in the market, I ended up back. But not this time. I would in fact like to complain to the authorities about their unwashed cups, since this is a heath-safety issue.

I really enjoy the Tea Store in Ottawa, but the seating is slim pickings if you actually want to stay awhile. The Tea Party is a nice, simple, cozy tea cafe where you can either just buy tea, or sit down and enjoy yourself. With 140 different teas to choose from, you may be here awhile just smelling them before even drinking anything! (They have coffee for those of you who aren't tea fanatics). I enjoy how quiet this place is- possibly because few people know about it?

We went for "high tea" ($10.00) which takes place between 2-6pm Monday to Friday. It includes your own pot of tea, finger sandwiches. We were even given little chocolate truffles afterwards. If you don't go for high tea, they do offer a snack and lunch menu too.

My personal favorites: anything rooibos, such as the honey, rainbow, or strawberry rooibos teas. There is even a chocolate mint tea! If you're stuck, let them know what you're looking for and they will most likely be able to help you. With all the choices, it's hard to pick only one or two to walk away with!

Don't leave without trying an oatmeal cookie! They are amazing!