Eli Tea Bar

“I tried the Smoked Hot Chocolate, and I really loved it.”

I tried the Smoked Hot Chocolate, and I really loved it. It’s warm, smooth, and not too sweet. The light smoky flavor makes it unique and very comforting. The atmosphere is cozy, artistic, and inviting. Beautiful teapots, tea shelves, soft lighting, and thoughtful details make the space feel calm and creative. A perfect place to slow down and enjoy the moment. I’ll definitely come back.

Jess BoYd

Jan 2026

“I had the pumpkin spice tea latte, and the Traverse cherry iced tea and they were both delicious.”

I had the pumpkin spice tea latte, and the Traverse cherry iced tea and they were both delicious. I feel as though pumpkin spice can be a hit or miss, but this was totally a hit . My friend had the blood orange, which was very nice and floral. The staff could be a little bit more engaging and helpful due to the fact that there’s so many options but overall very nice place to go and have tea even in the evening. They have many caffeine free options.

Caleb Boclair

Oct 2025

“You’ll come back for the matcha and stay for the community.”

You’ll come back for the matcha and stay for the community. This place serves a comprehensive tea selection and expertly crafted drinks. The thing I love most is that owner has gone above and beyond to create a safe inclusive space for the recovering and sober curious community. They host a diverse line-up of monthly and weekly events where you’ll willing put down your phone and engage with someone IRL…

Christopher

Jun 2025

“Nice cozy store. They sell mugs and puzzle sets too which make for great gifts.”

Robert Chen

Mar 2025

“I’ve been here a couple of times now and there’s always a friendly chill vibe and I have liked...”

I’ve been here a couple of times now and there’s always a friendly chill vibe and I have liked everything I’ve tried so far.

Amanda Kasper

Feb 2025

“A gorgeous sober queer space with amazing tea & boba!”

A gorgeous sober queer space with amazing tea & boba!! They also sell loose leaf teas to go and have a cute shop inside with very unique items. There's also awesome events here from arts and crafts night to writing night, queer sober social, and more. There are cookies, pastries and vegan samosas to snack on. I love this place and stop by every time I'm in Andersonville!

Rachael J

Oct 2024

“Tucked into a cute little street, great atmosphere right off the bat.”

Tucked into a cute little street, great atmosphere right off the bat. The folks on at the counter were funny and kind and the tea is probably the best I've had in Chicago so far. Lots of things to look at and relaxing seating makes this a go back spot for me.

Amber Cowles

May 2024

“2/7 - Great place for coffee and sweets.”

2/7 - Great place for coffee and sweets. Eli and Brian are terrific! 4/3 - Love the tea. Nicolas is a great tea maker. Just right

Richard Lange

Apr 2024

“The atmosphere at Eli Tea Bar is incredibly welcoming and inclusive.”

The atmosphere at Eli Tea Bar is incredibly welcoming and inclusive. I was so amazed by the wide variety of tea leaves they offer, as well as the diverse selection of boba flavors and tea-based latte drinks available on the menu. We tried the lychee jasmine Ube latte, which was decent. There are plenty of seatings, with bar seats at the front and more tables along with a stage in the back for events.

Bill

Mar 2024

“Can I give this place six stars? First of all- the selection is so diverse and unique and amazing.”

Can I give this place six stars? First of all- the selection is so diverse and unique and amazing. I had the (seasonal) Butterscotch Rose Petal Black Tea Xmas Latte (yes I know that sounds made up) and GOOD GOD it was scrumptious. I can’t even describe the taste but I slapped my knee at least twice. The service was great, the space is quirky and fun and there’s lots to look at, and the little knick knacks to purchase are so cute. I almost bought twelve teapots until reality slapped me in the face (I am not the Mad Hatter). Go here, you won’t regret it.

Liz M

Dec 2023

“What a great alternative to your classic coffee shop with a huge range of tea options and other...”

What a great alternative to your classic coffee shop with a huge range of tea options and other drinks (with or without that caffeine boost). Additionally it has an awesome cozy atmosphere to both work and socialize.

Jasmine May

Dec 2023

“Mega uber cool vibes in this place.”

Mega uber cool vibes in this place. I got the cinnamon rooibus b/c it already has nondairy milk, and it is a very very unique taste that is quite good. There is a grittiness to it, so if you have food sensory issues don't get it. I was intimidated by the menus and thought there was only milk tea, but no, there's fruit tea too and it's cheaper. There is lots of seating, study areas, and gender neutral bathrooms. Seems like a good chat spot too! I recommend!

Dylan

Sep 2023