Specialty food shops in Austin

Specialty food shops help you find ingredients and gifts that a regular grocery aisle rarely carries, from loose-leaf tea to custom blends made to your taste. Many also offer catering for tea parties and events, so you can ask what they prepare and how far ahead they need notice. Before you choose one in Austin, TX, ask to smell or sample a blend and find out whether the tea is whole-leaf, since that affects flavor and how it steeps. For catering, book early, confirm the menu and quantities in writing, and ask about tasting or pickup options.