Calabash Tea & Tonic

Love this place! The vibe was amazing, and it was great to see a bohemian-​esque tea shop with a nice mix of POC. Not something I find a lot in NY. The music was great– loud enough to hear and vibe to, but low enough to get work done and make calls if needed. Kombucha was great, and the gluten free pb-​oatmeal raisin– chocolate chip cookie was oh so delicious!
Highly recommend that you stop by here! I didn’t try the chai, which I heard is one of the best things here, but plan to tomorrow morning :)

I came in with a sore throat in hopes of a basic peppermint tea and the barista recommended an even better tea blend that soothed my pain. The space has a wonderful ambiance and I’ll definitely be coming back for their matcha tea. I hope to catch one of their upcoming yoga events this summer too!

I knew I would love this place when I first saw it! It’s a very cute tea and tonic shop, but that is not all. The herbs and the tonics are great for your mind and body, and even your soul if you have one ;). The owner Sunyatta is serious about her herbs and her customer care! Don’t expect to have some sludge squirted expediently into a cup so you can run to the job you hate. Expect visiting calabash to be the best part of your day, where someone looked you in the eye and took care to make sure you were present in the moment to receive some delicious and nutritious blessings.

Best Tea shop in DC!
Striking jobs conversation with the owner Sunyata is always a delight as well as the Apple Zucchini bread and Kombucha! You can’t go wrong with any of their tea or chai options either!

I absolutely love everything about Calabash. The calm atmosphere, the music, the teas, snacks, just everything. The customer service is just wonderful as well. They are some of the most pleasant people I have ever met. if you can’t decide what to get, they are more than willing to help you decide and really take an interest on finding out what exactly you like. I stop here just about every morning on my way to work and get a Yoni-​Verse and the apple zucchini bread (which is absolutely amazing!)
If you are looking for a place to study, relax, have some tea with friends, Calabash is definitely the place to go!

I wanted to like this place… but apparently the proprietor is happier to be abrasive/​make fun of costumers than create a peaceful and accepting atmosphere.
I was recently mugged and was looking forward to enjoying their «Last Good Nerve» tea as I have previously enjoyed it.
When I approached the bar, I was told to «remove your glasses, you are freaking me out,» and when I asked for the tea I wanted she tried to encourage me to have a different tea before allowing me to articulate what I actually wanted.
I understand the need to engage costumers in a joshing sort of way but there is a fine line between extraversion and bullying. One never knows what is going on with another person and if you want to create a neighborhood place where everyone feels safe, it would serve them well to avoid harshly poking fun at victims of violent crime.

What a relaxing and warm vibe! I was looking for Wi-​Fi, and found zen.
When you enter Calabash, you leave a changed person. With refreshing teas, snacks, and five generations of herbal knowledge, the owner, Sunyattia, takes an interest in your ailments and a shot at your health. Definitely worth a taking a tea, or two!

This place is my go to for when friends are in town because it is adorable, I love supporting women-​owned businesses and it has vegetarian options for the veg heads in my life. The décor is great and the baristas are super friendly. It is very easy to convince yourself that they are your wise, mystical best friends. It is a little expensive but worth it, I think. Great chais! The loose teas to take home are a little pricey but v good quality.

Amazing, Amazing, Amazing, Amazing, wonderful, wonderful, wonderful
Great venue. Great staff (Remy)
Terrific tea and more.

First off, I am in love & I need them to open a Calabash in Florida. The lady working was probably the most pleasant person I have come across. She was so knowledgable & excited to share the health benefits of each drink (they have an awesome selection) I ended up getting the iced turmeric & ginger latte to help with inflammation; it was wonderful.
**Tip**
There is a parable written in patois on the back of the restroom door that they post weekly. If you speak it in patois and tell them the meaning they will make you a free drink!
Unfortunately, I just thought you had to translate it. Mine was «Dawg Nyam Yuh Suppah» — Meaning if you are not careful with what you have, you will lose it.

Wow! I must say that this place has the best Iced Chai I have had so far. It’s not too sweet and has the right level of Cardamom and such. The veggie samosa is up there too. The atmosphere is Bohemian without trying too hard and the cashier/​serve was friendly and knowledgeable. I would go here again.

This is an awesome tea shop, super friendly and knowledgeable staff. I wanted something with lemongrass but not quite the combinations on the menu. They found out what flavors I like and customized a blend for me. They also have Kombucha. Cute, interesting décor.

Probably one of my favorite spots in DC. Always amazing drinks, great vegan sandwiches (not a huge vegan person at all), and lovely staff. Such a nice place to escape the hustle and bustle of DC and reconnect with yourself.

This place is heaven. I am in love.
+ Extensive selection of teas (four types of chais, hayyyy)
+ Comfy and cozy seating
+ Really cool ambiance
+ Art and books galore
+ Samosas ($ 2.69) are really good
+ Nice staff and quick service
Honestly, this place is divine. I can pretend I’m at a secret tea house in the mountains in Southeast Asia. I mean for real… where is the LOVE button?

I passed this place a few times and didn’t know what gem it was until it was blowing up on my Unilocal feed. Unilocal and the rave reviews from this tea café will have you believing that a genie will sashay from a tea pot at the front door and sprinkle you with herbs, spices and fairy dust, LOL. That did not happen, but the place was as cute as it is in the pictures. Adorable, sassy and my kind of feel good place.
Service was lovely. Insight and orientation to the Calabash world of teas and tonics by a master herbologist. I was recommended the chai latte, the tomato corn soup and a herb and cheese scone. Individually they were all good… well the scone didn’t do it for me, but together they all bombarded my senses with different spices, overwhelming me. My palate didn’t have a reprieve. I tasted a simosa also as it was popular amongst patrons. It was my favorite of all, even if the outside coating isn’t crisp. I wanted to try the apple zucchini bread, but I figured it would be perfect on my next trip back.
I sat at the counter to taste my goods. Most of the seating is couches with low tables, good for chit chat with a friend and sip tea. It didn’t seem comfortable for a solo venture, eating real food. I can’t wait to return. I’ll bring a friend!

A delightful little tea shop. This place totally envelops you; the rich tapestries the smell of burning incense, the friendly staff, the outside world momentarily disappears. We came here for lunch and had roasted red pepper soups and samosas, loved the accompanying mint sauce. I had a chai and my friend had a house conncoction which instantly made me wish I’d been more adventurous, oh well, guess I’ll have to come back…

I’m absolutely in LOVE with Calabash!
Came in with my girls Denna H. and Hannah H. after a meet up at Uprising, and eventual kick out because they close early. Walked into Calabash and immediately felt engulfed in a feminist gathering place.
Calabash hosts a variety of teas and tonics for healing. This wasn’t stated (and I didn’t ask), but you can CLEARLY SEE that Calabash caters more to women’s health. They sell raspberry tea and Maca, known to aid in reproductive health.
I ordered the Love Potion #10 with Assam Black Tea, Ginger and spices and almond milk. I really enjoyed this although I think the almond milk added a bit too much nuttiness to the subtle hints of spice. Perhaps I should have let the tea steep a while longer before adding the milk. They have a whole slew of tonics to help out with difficult ailments like anxiety, Pms, colds, memory, and even a mixture to help men get their little swimmers up (I just blushed).
While I absolutely enjoyed the atmosphere, I would have liked to taste the food, but there was only one gluten free offering that didn’t appeal to me. Meanwhile, all food and drinks are vegan, so it’s a great place for all you tree hugging, faux fur wearing hipsters. Calabash also has loose tea and tonic mixtures available for sale (BUY IT).
I’ll definitely return, possibly with a good book and my laptop in hand (free wifi). This place gets packed, but the waitresses are nice enough to find you a comfortable space to sit.
Notes:
1. Go now!
2. Ask the ladies at the bar to mix up something special for your needs
3. Vegan
4. Some GF items

A one of a kind tea spot… and one of a kind tea selections!
This place is a rarity in DC. I’m not a herbologist or tea spazz by far, but as a health conscious fanatic I know a good product when I see it.
Calabash Tea & Café provides the right space for the one on one date, group meet up or… simply relaxing «me time» to the perfect cup of tea and/​or even a quick bite of mostly vegetarian fare. I first discovered this place by way of a Groupon and have been made a fan and definitely, a returning customer ever since. Their tea products are solid and the customer service is outstanding! The vibe is sort like «Shangri-​La Bliss» meets a «Moroccan Oasis.» It is chill, laid-​back and very welcoming. Upon entering, you feel very relaxed but at the same time can’t help to be intrigued by the array of tea concoctions and spice products boasted against the walls of the place.
With names like Eartha Kitt, Love Potion #10, and Black Pussycat you will definitely find a tea blend to get your «freak» on… ooops…I meant a «drink» on that suits to your liking and taste buds too! They also have house-​made brews of Kombucha on tap!
The tea selection is vast; but not overwhelming. The staff does a very good job describing their tea products. Even a novice tea drinker will have no problem finding something to their liking to enjoy. They seem to have tea and chai blended products to amuse any of your problems or pyscho-​somatic ailments from the rooter to the tooter! From mood swings, anxiety, PMS, dandruff… to the common cold and libido… there is an herbal tea elixir waiting for you to purchase! They also serve an array of sandwiches, baked goods, and standard-​common teas and spices; including green teas, black teas, rooibos, and herbal blends to name a few. All items are displayed in descriptive, labeled glass jar containers that resemble that of an apothecary (old pharmacy) and sold pre-​packaged or by the ounce. It definitely peaks your interest.
On this particular visit, I came in for a quick grab and go snack before hitting gym. I was indecisive but was quickly reeled-​in to the perfect drink by the owner, Sunyatta Amen. Sunyatta is a tea master and very knowledgeable about teas. If she happens to be there, you will know who she is. You can’t miss seeing her busy body and big «bright» personality within the place! She is very eager to assist you and goes out of her way to make sure everyone is comfortable. Per her suggestion, I tried the Raspberry Kombucha for the first time and it was amazing! I also ordered the Samosa which came with chipotle sauce and green chutney. It was really good.
In all, a cool — unique gem in the heart of DC. Stop on by for a cup of their magic tonics and tea temptations to see for yourself! The place is WiFi enabled but, leave the laptops and tablets at home if you wish. There are plenty of books stacked and piled around… to put your mind on pause for a moment from the already «wired» technology-​driven world around us and stressful day. Namaste… And, yes… real men drink tea too or at least Kombucha… lol

Oh, Calabash, you are super awesome! You get all the likes and all the stars from me!
Funny thing, I’ve passed this place several times not noticing that I was passing awesomeness. I was on my way to a hair appointment and I decided to see why people are so in love with this place. I got there shortly after they opening and the first thing I noticed was the positive energy of this place – from the colors on the walls and ceiling, to the fragrances from the teas and the beautiful artwork. Calabash makes me think of the 90’s neo soul era. The barista was very warm and welcoming. She gave me some background on the café and the owner. So the owner is 5^th generation Jamaican herbalist – when I heard of the name Calabash, I thought it sounded very «island-​y.» The barista gave me samples of their kombucha on tap – I liked the ginger ninja the most but I was looking for something warm. She suggested the chai latte but I saw that they have Jamaican hot chocolate; she said that it’s one of her favorite drinks and it’s spicy – yes, please! I was having a hard time choosing and she suggested that I do half and half. I got half cup of Jamaican hot chocolate and half cup of chai latte which equaled to a full cup of spicy delicious goodness!
As for food, since it was early, the barista thought that a slice of apple-​zucchini bread would go perfectly with my mixed drink – I trusted her judgment and she was right on the money. The apple-​zucchini bread had just the right amount of sweetness, and she offered to warm it up for me.
I’m so glad that finally got to try this place. I wasn’t in the best of moods when I got there, but I have to tell you that my mood totally changed after just a few moments in the restaurant. I told the barista that it was my first time at Calabash and she said «better late than never»…AMEN TO THAT! Also, the price is right – I got my drink and apple-​zucchini bread for under $ 10.00. I most definitely will be back – I want to try the samosas and vegan BLT as well as other tea drinks.
Keep up the good work Calabash!

I loved my first visit here. I was with the fabulous Adrienne M and the amazing Hannah H! We came here serendipitously after we realized uprising muffins closes at 3pm on Sunday’s. So we walked along hoping to find another place to hang out. We found few places that looked welcoming. We found calabash and I recognized it as I remember there had been an event here that looked awesome. (I was not at that event). Anyway we walked in and found it busy! We managed to get three chairs and one of the employees got us a table too. The employees were very friendly and greeted us upon entry. The store was very busy. It was overwhelming at first. I ordered one samosa and two teas during my visit. They have teas and tonics for all kinds of ailments and needs. It was great. The store itself is beautifully decorated and colorful. There are lots of different goodies for you to choose from. Even the bathroom was super colorful and playful with its colors and décor.
The samosa was not crispy but it was still delicious especially knowing it was vegan. The teas were also very soothing for me. The staff are helpful and upbeat. The whole vibe of the store is positive.
Limited street parking. It’s located very close to the Howard university metro area. Lots of vegan and some gluten free options.
I definitely plan on going back!

Calabash Tea & Tonic is SUPER CUTE! Owned by Sunyatta Amen, Calabash offers an extensive list of black/​Chai/​green/​healing/​herbal/​decaf tea beverages, handmade treats (such as pies, cakes, truffles, scones, etc.), kombucha on tap, some eats (organic Tuscan teriyaki kale, veggie samosas, granola bowl, etc.). as well as some loose-​leaf teas for purchasing. Two of my favorites, ADRIENNE M. and DEENA H., and I came here to check this place out as we were in the area. I tried their Love Potion #10, which was made with Assam black tea, ginger, and some exotic spices — this was absolutely DELICIOUS! It was milky, creamy, was infused with all these spices, had a nice little kick from the cayenne pepper, and served at the perfect hot temperature: D Just note that you can even get a customized drink, based on your current ailments!!! I couldn’t leave without trying one of their nibbles, so I had their Veggie Samosas (filled with a nicely-​spiced filling of chickpeas, cashews, and a great curry flavor; the exterior was a little thick and not crispy, but it was pretty okay with the sweet tamarind sauce that it came with (it also came with some cilantro chutney, but I avoided that); I really enjoyed the cashew bits in there!). Also note that you get two pieces if you do a ‘combo’ (meaning, an addition of a drink!). The staff were super friendly, patient, and made some great recommendations, and even made sure that we were comfortable. The place was super packed, but we were able to find some comfy chairs, and one of the staff members noticed we needed a little table, so she brought one over: D I absolutely loved the vibe here, as it was super relaxed, laid-​back, and an aura of coolness — definitely recommend in checking this little gem out! I can’t wait to come back and try out their other tea varieties and their treats: D
+Love Potion #10 :D
+customized drinks available!
+Veggie Samosas (with extra tamarind sauce!)
+loose-​leaf teas available for purchasing
+super cool and friendly staff: D
+relaxed, laid-​back atmosphere
+limited 2-​hour parking off of 7^th

NAMASTE & Welcome Home Mama Kat!
I have finally met the Yin to my Vegan Goodies/​Common Gathering Yang.
Before you take a step inside, you will sense the calming environment inviting you in. Once you’re inside, you are embraced by the highest compliment of salutations from the dynamic dame who looks like the younger versions of Dorothy Dandridge and Lena Horne all mixed in one. Her red floral head garment really flourished her presence… must give credit where credit is due.
It took me a few minutes from entering & making my way to the counter, as I was enjoying the mini journey of positive energy & intent. I was in scanning mode as my eyes were fixated on the never ending artwork, unique color scheme on the walls & furniture. I was intrigued by the cozy looking sofa in front of the window. With today’s sun beaming through, it gave off a radiant illumination of earth tone hues mirroring the exquisite décor of accent pieces that were placed around so eloquently. & what you couldn’t see of the invisible emanation of scents & aromatherapy, made the atmosphere even more enchanting.
Thank goodness my Daughter was present to handle the inquiries & ordering, as it took me a good while to stop being in awed of this herbal, bohemian, chakra type of tonics & mini bites before I finally sat down. I got myself together from the rhapsody of being a newbie & zoomed in on the big blackboards that highlights the vast selections of teas, coffee, lattes & more. The glass dessert domes provides a clear view & written description of the enclosed, sweet & savory items. In addition to daily samples offered, the array of Zucchini Bread, chocolate peanut butter cups, cookies & Samosas that are all Vegan, with the exception of the Quiche.
Let’s get down to ordering:
May we please & thank you have the Apple Zucchini bread, Savory Scone, Carrot Cake, Peanut Butter Cups, Pumpkin Bites (for later of course), & some Healing Teas of Maca & Yoniverse. The creativity of tonic naming is just as educating as the benefits of consumption.‘I love to move it, Rescue Me & Yeonce’.
Since we already had lunch, this just paved the way for my return to try their numerous delicious items they have to offer… soups, sushi, sandwiches & salads. I don’t recall the last time I’ve experienced such an adventure within a place that serves teas & crumpets, to say it mildly. We did not only enjoy the experience of consumable & tasty wellness, the impeccable customer service & ambiance of positive intentions throughout, resonated the cliché of becoming one with your mind, body, soul & spirit.
As we sipped on our Turmeric, Ginger, Lemon with Agave Tea (Me) & Matcha Maca Latte on our way home, I reflected on my 1^st of many experiences to come. Not only due to the highest satisfaction of Veganism consumption, additionally, the satisfying feeling of being enlightened from a herbal, aromatherapeutic & friendly, interactive encounter.
FLAWLESS EXPERIENCE.
Namaskar.

The ambiance, the customer service, the food, the drinks all 5 stars! I was so impressed to enter into this atmosphere on a Sunday afternoon. It was so quiet and chill and very few people in there so I was able to take my time trying samples of tea before picking the one I want. The Love Potion #10 is so delicious and warm on a chilly day. I paired my drink with the sexy miso soup which was so good (just know it’s spicy!) and a sambusa.
I enjoyed my meal on the window seat couch, read a little and talked to my friend before taking her to the airport to catch a flight. It is definitely a wine down/​namaste spot that has you so relaxed and happy after leaving. I will return. Thanks Calabash fam ;)

I came here for a Unilocal event, and knew that I’d have to return. I never would have tried this place if it weren’t for the event; I live in Arlington and it’s a touch out of the way. They do have a great location though. It’s in a hopping area within eyesight of the Shaw metro station.
My friend and I came in on a Saturday in need of a study session. I absolutely love that the ladies working there can help me come up with the right tea blend based on my needs. I ordered the roasted red pepper soup and samosas combo along with a special blend they concocted for me.
Two things my friend wanted to make sure I mentioned:
–My friend is gluten intolerant, but they made an exception and allowed her to order her soup with salad since they were out of veggie sushi. She was really appreciative of that.
–Not only did they make an exception on the salad for her, but it was a GOOD salad, and not the crappy house or Ceasar salad that other places would hastily toss together as a shabby substitute.
The roasted red pepper soup was misleadingly filling, but absolutely delicious. I enjoyed homework while having a chai latte, which hits the spot during this recent cold spell.
The environment is bright and welcoming, and the music they play is like my middle school soundtrack (which means I approve)
If I lived closer, I would be here alllll the time. For now though, it’s a special treat for my friend and I when we want to relax and get some reading done.

I was feeling kind of 4.5-ish, but I’ve decided not to break up their (perfect, as of this writing) rating. I’d never made it up to their previous shop, but this new place in Shaw attracted my attention pretty quickly. They have a variety of teas and herbal drinks, a small selection of vegetarian (and often vegan) food items, and a nice little space to sit in. They also take online orders. Their location is quite close to the Metro and a variety of other things.
Their samosas are filling due to the ample cashew nuts inside. A black bean brownie is one of those word combinations you think you’ll never hear, but, while a tad crumbly, it does taste pretty good (and yes, you can definitely tell the black beans are there). When they did not have the greens their online menu offered, I ended up with a rather large salad instead.
As the store is owned by a naturopath, health benefits are implied. Of course, good food is the best medicine, but above and beyond that, I did find that their «throat soother» tea lived up to the name when I came in with a cold. Not cheap, mind you, or even particularly tasty as teas go, but my throat was less sore. On the other hand, I was rather disappointed in their miso «sexy» soup. Even after consuming it, I am not particularly sexy. Perhaps the soup itself is supposed to be sexy? Feels like false advertising. It was tasty though.