More Herb, Less Mouthwash: A Tasty Alternative To Peppermint Tea

What am I drinking?

A peppermint herbal blend.

Where am I drinking it?

Grove Road Café in Rathmines, a recently opened coffee shop with a stark black and grey look. It’s not the most comfortable place to sit in, but that’s okay as it’s mostly aimed at take-away coffee, tea and pastries.

They claim their mission is to do the simple things well and be nice to people, as well as work with producers who are passionate about what they do.

All these things they are most certainly succeeding in: the menu is simple and tasty (though a little on the expensive side), the staff and friendly and helpful, with advice and tips on what to order, and they stock Roasted Brown coffee and Wall and Keogh teas.

What does it taste like?

Though not usually a fan of peppermint teas – that toothpaste taste too often makes it feel like warm mouthwash – this is actually a really flavoursome cup of tea. The taste of the mint itself is more herbal than menthol, and it’s balanced nicely by the addition of passion flowers, lemon balm and lavender.

What does it look like?

The teapot and cup are a welcome splash of red in this fashionably grey establishment, matching the other red highlights such as in its plastic chairs. The tea pot holds about enough for two cups, and it has a really deep filter so that it’s well brewed, though you can’t see the actual tea all that well.

Where does it come from?

Peppermint tea is a centuries-old way of ingesting peppermint, long thought to have medicinal qualities. In particular, it’s associated with North African cuisine, such as Moroccan maghreb mint tea.

What effect does it have?

It would take pages to discuss all the health benefits that peppermint tea has been claimed to have over the centuries, but all that aside, at the very least it’s a great refreshing drink, and surprisingly good with breakfast.

Where can I get it?

This is another unique Wall and Keogh blend, which is lucky as everyone seems to be stocking W&K these days. Check out their website.

Is it worth the try?

If you’re not a big fan of mint teas usually, but are still looking for something refreshing and light, this is an excellent choice.