What Is the Tea Used in Chinese Restaurants? And How Does Nepali Tea Compare?

June 23, 2025

You sit down for dim sum or dumplings, and before your menu even arrives, there it is — the signature steamy pot of tea. But have you ever stopped to ask: What exactly is that tea? And better yet, how does it compare to Nepali teas, which are quickly becoming global favorites?

In this blog, we’ll explore the types of teas commonly served in Chinese restaurants, their unique characteristics, and how they stack up against the bold, high-elevation brews from Nepal.

The Most Common Teas in Chinese Restaurants

Most Chinese restaurants serve one of these classic teas:

1. Jasmine Tea

A green tea base scented with jasmine blossoms. It’s aromatic, floral, and mildly sweet.

2. Oolong Tea

Semi-oxidized tea with a smooth, earthy flavor. It pairs well with fried or oily food and aids digestion.

3. Pu-erh Tea

A fermented tea known for its deep, earthy taste and gut-friendly probiotic content.

4. Chrysanthemum Tea

A floral herbal tea, often served caffeine-free. It’s light, refreshing, and traditional in Cantonese cuisine.

5. Boiled Chinese Black Tea

Strong, bold, and slightly bitter — often served in small cups with heavy meals.

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Why Do Chinese Restaurants Serve Tea?

Tea plays a central role in Chinese dining for several reasons:

Aids digestion after rich meals
Cleanses the palate between bites
Offers hydration without sugar
Enhances relaxation and ritual during dining

It's tradition, wellness, and hospitality — all in one humble teapot.

Enter Nepali Tea: A Flavorful Rival with Himalayan Roots

While Chinese teas are known for their centuries-old traditions, Nepali teas bring a fresh, high-altitude twist to the tea scene. They are gaining traction for their clean flavor, diverse profiles, and wellness benefits.

Let’s break it down:

Nepali Jasmine Green Tea vs. Chinese Jasmine Tea

Chinese Jasmine tea is often machine-scented and can be overly perfumed. In contrast:

22° Nepal Jasmine Green Tea

Hand-blended with real jasmine blossoms
Grown at high altitudes in Ilam, Nepal
Subtler, more natural aroma
Fresh, grassy green tea base

Verdict: Nepali Jasmine Green Tea offers a cleaner, less artificial experience — perfect for those who value purity.

Nepali Oolong Tea vs. Chinese Oolong

Chinese oolongs (like Tie Guan Yin or Da Hong Pao) are roasted and nutty. But if you prefer something smoother and lighter:

27° Himalayas Best Oolong Tea

Semi-oxidized, floral, and slightly fruity
Light roast profile
Easier on the palate

Verdict: Nepali Oolong is great for newcomers to oolong or those who prefer gentle flavors without sacrificing complexity.

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Herbal Options: Chrysanthemum vs. Moringa & Tulsi

Chrysanthemum is soothing but limited in benefits. Nepali herbal teas go further:

93° Himalayan Moringa Tea

Rich in iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants
Supports metabolism and energy

05° Tulsi Tea (Sacred Basil Tea)

Stress-relieving adaptogen
Supports immunity and digestion

Verdict: If you want your herbal tea to taste good AND do good, Nepali blends win with their superfood ingredients.

Digestive Teas: Pu-erh vs. Masala Chai

While Chinese Pu-erh is famous for post-meal relief, Nepali Masala Chai is a bold alternative:

02° Yak Mountain Loose Leaf Masala Chai Tea

Made with cardamom, cloves, cinnamon
Warming and digestive
Great with milk or plain

Verdict: If you're after spice, comfort, and digestion in one cup — Nepali Masala Chai brings more warmth and depth.

Sustainability & Ethics: How Nepali Tea Rises Above

Many Chinese teas are mass-produced with little transparency. Nepali tea stands out for:

Organic farming practices
Fair-trade sourcing
Support for small farmers and women cooperatives

When you sip Nepali tea, you support clean agriculture and community-driven trade.

Final Sip: A Tale of Two Traditions

Chinese tea is deeply rooted in tradition — and rightfully celebrated. But Nepali tea brings something new: mountain purity, artisanal touch, wellness power, and global heart.

So next time you're offered tea, go beyond the expected. Explore the Himalayan difference with Danfe Tea.

Ready to upgrade your tea time?
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