Sorate

- 103 Sullivan St, New York, NY 10012

Sorate is a unique and serene tea house nestled on Sullivan Street in New York City's SoHo neighborhood. Stepping inside this intimate space is like entering a calming oasis, a welcome escape from the city's constant energy. More than just a place to grab a drink, Sorate is a destination for those who appreciate the art and tradition of Japanese tea. The shop's minimalist aesthetic and thoughtful design create a peaceful ambiance, providing the perfect setting to enjoy a meticulously prepared cup of tea.

The core of Sorate's mission is to provide an authentic and high-quality tea experience. This commitment is evident in every detail, from the sourcing of their teas to the precise way each drink is prepared. Customers frequently praise the authenticity of the matcha, describing it as "true to what matcha is supposed to be," with a creamy, rich flavor and a smooth texture. The baristas are not just servers; they are knowledgeable craftsmen who whisk the matcha in front of you, turning the preparation into a captivating and educational performance. This personalized approach sets Sorate apart from industrialized coffee shops and highlights their passion for their craft.

While a small and popular spot, Sorate's charm lies in its dedication to a focused and high-quality product. While some visitors have noted that the small space can feel chaotic during busy times, most agree that the wait is well worth it for the quality of the drinks. The staff is consistently described as kind, knowledgeable, and passionate, always ready to guide you through the menu and help you find the perfect tea. For New Yorkers who are true matcha connoisseurs or simply curious to try a high-quality, authentic tea, Sorate is a must-visit, offering an experience that is both a treat for the senses and a moment of tranquility.

Location and Accessibility

Sorate is located at 103 Sullivan St, New York, NY 10012, USA. This address places it in the stylish and lively SoHo neighborhood, known for its art galleries, trendy boutiques, and diverse culinary scene. The location is easily accessible from various parts of the city via public transportation, with several subway stations within a short walking distance.

The shop itself is small and intimate, with limited seating inside—reportedly a counter with only four seats and a few benches outside. This design encourages a quick, focused visit, although many patrons are happy to wait to secure a seat and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The surrounding neighborhood offers plenty of opportunities to take your tea to go and enjoy it while exploring the charming streets of SoHo or finding a quiet spot in a nearby park.

Services Offered

Sorate provides a variety of services to accommodate its customers, whether they are looking for a quick cup of tea or a more immersive experience.

• Dine-in: The shop has a limited number of seats for those who wish to sit and enjoy their drink in the peaceful ambiance.

• Takeout: For a convenient and quick option, takeout service is available.

• Curbside Pickup & Delivery: To make enjoying their tea as easy as possible, Sorate also offers curbside pickup and delivery services.

• Onsite Services: The staff provides full onsite service, with the added highlight of watching the baristas prepare your drink in front of you.

• Wagashi and Food: In addition to tea, the menu includes traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi) like Nerikiri and Sesame Cracker, as well as light food items such as Miso Soup, Lobster Salad, Ikura, and Smoked Salmon, providing a complete experience.

Features / Highlights

Sorate is renowned for several key features that set it apart in the New York tea scene.

• Great Tea Selection: The most prominent highlight is the quality and variety of tea, particularly the matcha. The shop offers a selection of ceremonial-grade matcha, including the high-quality Shibui Superior Matcha and the limited-edition Haru, ensuring an authentic and rich flavor. They also offer a range of other teas like Hojicha, Genmaicha, and Sencha.

• Authentic Preparation: Customers love the experience of watching their matcha being whisked by the skilled baristas. This traditional, hands-on approach to tea preparation adds to the calm and quiet ambiance of the shop.

• Unique Menu Items: The menu goes beyond standard tea and lattes to include sparkling drinks like the Matcha Yuzu, and a selection of traditional wagashi and other light food items that complement the tea perfectly.

• LGBTQ+ Friendly and Transgender Safe Space: Sorate is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all patrons, proudly identifying as an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space.

• Casual and Calm Ambiance: The cozy and minimalist interior, along with the quiet atmosphere, provides a tranquil setting for a brief and enjoyable escape from the city's noise.

• Efficient Payments: The shop accepts a variety of payment options, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions quick and easy.

Contact Information

For more information, or to place an order, you can contact Sorate at the following:

Address: 103 Sullivan St, New York, NY 10012, USA

Phone: (212) 256-0268

The shop's presence on delivery platforms and its direct phone number make it easy to enjoy their high-quality tea and treats, even if you can't make it to the physical location.

What is Worth Choosing

Sorate is worth choosing for anyone who values a high-quality, authentic, and peaceful tea experience. Its focus on traditional matcha and the artistry of tea preparation sets it apart from other cafes in the city. The consistently positive reviews regarding the quality of the tea and the kindness of the staff underscore its excellence. While the space is small, this intimacy is part of its charm, making a visit feel like a special, personal ritual.

The shop’s inclusive and welcoming atmosphere is another major reason to choose it. In a bustling city, finding a place that is a designated safe space for the LGBTQ+ community is invaluable. The combination of its superior tea selection, unique food offerings like wagashi, and its dedication to an authentic experience makes Sorate a top destination. Whether you're a devoted tea drinker or simply looking for a new and calming spot to discover, Sorate offers a brief but beautiful escape into the world of Japanese tea. It is more than just a tea house; it is a true haven for mindfulness and deliciousness.

Sorate

103 Sullivan St, New York, NY 10012, USA