Dobra Cajovna
Vaclavske nam. 14, Praha 1
http://www.tea.cz
One of Prague's main attractions is its carefree, bohemian spirit. Dobra
Cajovna nicely encapsulates its best features.
Despite its central location, it's not easy to find. Among the many signs
fighting for your attention in the city's most bustling square (Vaclavske
namesti), one must spot an inconspicuous one atop a small arch. Duck
inside, and you will find yourself in another world.
Dobra Cajovna Interior
What unfolds before you is a peaceful courtyard, its silence punctured only by
the melodic Eastern music emanating from a door in the back. Spaced
throughout are tables with wooden umbrellas in the Chinese style. The tables
are an interesting creation: round plates of glass atop wooden chests used
to transport tea, colorfully decorated with original markings, which add a
nice touch of authenticity. Other decorations include a Buddha statue, live
orchids, and aroma sticks.
Stepping inside the door, you enter a cozy teashop, offering many teas, tea
utensils, and many books about tea. The tea sets are really interesting and
one may spend many a joyous minute playing around with them.
Proceeding further, you step into a cozy tea room with carpets covering the
walls and floor, containing small tables, lit with candles and infused with
the scent of aroma sticks. When the tables fill up, the atmosphere is so
casual, that most patrons kick off their shoes, and grab a comfortable spot
on the floor.
Dobra Cajovna Exterior
Once seated, one is presented with a menu that resembles a weighty novel,
and a bell to summon your waiter. Turning the pages of the menu, one is
delighted by a plethora of tea choices, from all corners of the tea world:
China, Japan, Nepal, etc. As well as information on the history of tea, and
advice on how and when it's best to enjoy it.
I chose
Pi Lo Chun (blue-green tea, with a tender "spring" flavor), and my
companion selected Long Jing (green tea, very refreshing). Each was 75
Czech crowns (about $2). Each tea was delivered in a very stylish set, with
an extra pot of hot water with a candle placed underneath to keep it warm.
Despite the light color, both teas were very flavorful. And had kept us
alert during the duration of our stay.
Additionally, there is a list of food items to go with your tea. I chose
pita with sweet cheese, raisins, cinnamon, and orange nectar. My friend
selected a pita with cheese (38 Czech crowns, about $1 each). Both just
melted in the mouth, sooo good.
It's quite difficult to reach Dobra Cajovna, and a free table is almost
impossible to locate, at any time of day. But the next time you're in
Prague, try hard not to miss this wonderful experience.
