Where to Buy Tea in Canada

Canada has a vibrant tea culture, offering a mix of high-quality loose-leaf tea, bagged options, and specialty blends. Whether you’re looking for a local tea shop, a national retailer, or an online store, Canada has numerous options to explore. This guide will help you find the best places to buy tea in Canada, both in-person and online.

Canadian Tea Drinking Overview

Tea is an integral part of Canadian Tea culture, enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. From traditional English-style afternoon tea to unique Canadian-inspired blends, tea consumption continues to grow across the country. Canadians commonly drink black tea, green tea, herbal infusions, and specialty blends, often incorporating locally sourced ingredients such as maple, berries, and wild herbs. Whether enjoyed for its health benefits, as a comforting beverage, or as part of social gatherings, tea remains a staple in Canadian households.

Canadian Loose Leaf Tea Shops

If you prefer fresh, high-quality loose-leaf tea, Canada is home to many specialty tea shops. These stores offer a diverse selection, including green, black, oolong, white, and herbal teas. Here are some of the top Canadian loose-leaf tea shops:

1. The Tea Haus (Ontario)

Located in London, Ontario, The Tea Haus is known for its premium loose-leaf tea collection. They carry a variety of blends, from traditional teas to creative infusions. Their tea prices generally range from $8 to $30 per 100g, depending on the type and rarity of the tea. 

2. Camellia Sinensis (Quebec)

Based in Montreal, Camellia Sinensis is one of Canada’s most respected tea retailers. They specialize in direct trade teas from China, India, Japan, and Taiwan, ensuring high-quality sourcing. Their tea prices typically range from $10 to $50 per 100g, depending on the type and rarity of the tea. 

3. Tea Sparrow (Vancouver, BC)

Tea Sparrow is unique because it operates as a subscription service. They curate high-quality loose-leaf teas from around the world and ship them directly to customers in Canada. Their subscription plans typically range from $20 to $30 per month, depending on the selection and quantity of tea included. 

4. Tao Tea Leaf (Toronto, ON)

A well-known tea shop in Toronto, Tao Tea Leaf specializes in high-end Chinese teas, particularly pu-erh and oolong varieties. Their teas are sourced directly from small farms. The shop caters to a niche market of tea connoisseurs, with prices generally ranging from $15 to $80 per 100g, depending on the rarity and quality of the tea. 

5. Justea (Vancouver, BC)

Justea is a Vancouver-based company that focuses on ethically sourced teas from Kenyan farmers. They offer loose-leaf options in unique flavors like Purple Tea and Earl Grey. Their market appeals to ethically conscious consumers who appreciate direct trade and fair wages for farmers. Justea’s prices generally range from $12 to $40 per 100g, depending on the type and processing of the tea.

Canadian Retailers of Loose Leaf Tea

For those who prefer shopping at larger retailers, several Canadian stores offer loose-leaf tea both in-store and online. These retailers provide a mix of premium and budget-friendly options.

1. DAVIDsTEA

One of Canada’s most popular tea retailers, DAVIDsTEA offers a wide selection of loose-leaf teas. They are known for their innovative flavors and seasonal blends, making them a favorite among tea enthusiasts.

2. Bulk Barn

Bulk Barn carries a variety of loose-leaf teas, ranging from herbal blends to traditional black and green teas. The advantage here is that you can purchase in bulk at affordable prices.

3. Well.ca

This Canadian online health retailer offers a curated selection of organic and specialty teas, including loose-leaf options from various brands.

4. Genuine Tea

Based in Toronto, Genuine Tea offers ethically sourced and high-quality loose-leaf teas. They focus on transparency and sustainability in their sourcing practices.

5. Tea Centre of Stockholm (Vancouver, BC)

A well-respected tea shop in Vancouver, this retailer offers an extensive selection of loose-leaf teas, including Swedish blends and classic teas from around the world.

Best Online Tea Shops for a Canadian

If you prefer the convenience of online shopping, there are many excellent online tea retailers in Canada. These shops offer a wide selection of teas, often with detailed tasting notes and subscription services.

1. Camellia Sinensis

Camellia Sinensis is a top choice for online tea shopping in Canada. Their website offers a detailed selection of premium teas, complete with tasting notes and origin information.

2. DAVIDsTEA

With a strong online presence, DAVIDsTEA offers exclusive blends and seasonal collections. Their website also provides free shipping on orders over a certain amount.

3. Amazon Canada

For convenience, Amazon Canada offers a variety of loose-leaf and bagged teas from different brands. Prime members can also benefit from fast shipping.

4. Tea Runners

Tea Runners is a subscription-based service that delivers high-quality loose-leaf teas to Canadian customers. They focus on sourcing premium teas from small farms.

5. Pluck Tea

Pluck Tea is a Toronto-based online tea store that focuses on sustainable and locally blended teas. Their unique flavors include Canadian-inspired blends like Muskoka Chai.

People Also Ask

Can You Buy Tea Bags in Canada?

Yes, tea bags are widely available in Canada. They can be purchased at grocery stores, specialty tea shops, and online retailers. Popular brands include Tetley, Red Rose, Twinings, and Lipton.

Where Does Canada Get Tea?

Canada does not produce tea on a large scale due to its climate, so most tea is imported. The primary sources include China, India, Sri Lanka, Japan, Kenya, and Taiwan. Some small-scale tea farms exist on Vancouver Island, but the majority of tea consumed in Canada is sourced internationally.

Which Tea is Famous in Canada?

Canada has a rich tea-drinking culture, with some well-known favorites:

• Red Rose Tea – A classic Canadian brand known for its orange pekoe tea.
• DAVIDsTEA Blends – Popular for their innovative and seasonal loose-leaf tea blends.
• Maple Tea – A uniquely Canadian blend infused with maple flavor.
• Earl Grey – A widely enjoyed tea, particularly in the form of Cream of Earl Grey.
• Chai Tea – Many Canadians enjoy spiced chai blends, especially in colder months.

What is the Price of Tea in Canada?

The price of tea in Canada varies depending on quality, brand, and retailer:

• Budget Teas (Bagged Tea): $3 to $8 for a box of 20–50 tea bags.
• Mid-Range Loose Leaf Tea: $8 to $20 for 50g to 100g.
• Premium Loose Leaf Tea: $20 to $50+ for 50g to 100g, especially for rare or single-origin teas.
• Specialty and Organic Teas: Prices can range from $15 to $60 per 100g, depending on the source and processing method.

Conclusion

Canada offers a wide variety of tea-buying options, from local specialty shops to large retailers and online stores. Whether you’re looking for high-quality loose-leaf tea, budget-friendly bagged tea, or specialty blends, there is something for every tea lover in Canada. Whether you shop in person or online, finding the perfect tea is easy with so many excellent choices available.