High-tech cuppas: A café for tea enthusiasts

The brand's new concept store, in the Mission district of San Francisco, is all white, pared-back minimalism to put the focus on the technology used to brew the perfect strength tea. 

On display are a series of stainless steel and glass brewing vessels that are similar to a chemistry set, each containing a different blend of tea leaves. The backdrop of white Japanese tea cups and Samovar's own signature blend, for sale in white bags, completes the modern, yet zen, décor.

Tea culture is gaining on coffee as people become more aware of their health and the amount of caffeine they consume. For more on the tea revolution, read our microtrend A Whole New Blend.