Tea for two
by Marie Winfield

A new boutique in the 8th arrondissement is an ideal intimate rendezvous spot for lovers of quality teas.
Cha Jin, launched by Carol Négier, originally from Los Angeles, is a small boutique specializing in traditional Japanese powdered green tea, called matcha, imported from the Shizuoka and Uji regions of Japan.
Négier and her husband Xavier became tea enthusiasts during their first visit to Japan. “Our special relationship with a tea plantation in Japan and a traditional mill brought to Paris allows us to import the best organic, hand-picked plants and to freshly grind our own tea. The philosophy of the tea farmers who work on the plantation is that they’re not tea producers — they just help the tea grow,” says Carol.
On a small scale, this Zen philosophy is present in the shop’s atmosphere, with its pleasant Japanese tearoom, where a certified “master” performs Chanoyu tea ceremonies, as well as the lesser known Senchado.
There is also a tea bar, where you can sample different varieties of green tea, order a classic Japanese lunch box, nibble on originally designed pastries or try an exquisite green tea mousse. Cha Jin, which means “tea master” in Japanese, provides a serene ambience, perfect to “stay Zen/rester Zen” in Paris.
Cha Jin, La Maison du Thé Vert Japonais, Tue-Sat 11:30am to 7pm, 24 rue Pasquier, 8e, tel: 01 53 30 05 24. During the month of February the shop will be offering a Valentine’s day special for two people in its intimate Japanese room — Two Valentine’s Day pastries with Kabusecha or Fukamushicha tea for 16,90 euros. Reservations recommended.