Quality over Quantity
Our goal is simple: to make high quality tea approachable. We offer a curated menu with a focus on less is more. Each drink we offer is made fresh to order. We use absolutely no powders, artificial flavors nor dyes. Our boba is made daily using grade A tapioca pearls. Many of our teas are sourced from family farms all over the world, are certified organic and fair trade. We offer multiple dairy alternatives and use the highest quality locally sourced ingredients. Additionally, more than half of our drinks are consumed for here in reusable mason jars and when you purchase a reusable kanteen in our shop, one of your drinks is on us.
About our Founder
Tea Bar was founded by Portland native, Erica Indira Swanson at age 23 after moving back to Portland from living in China for 2 years. In 2021, Erica was feautured in Forbes 30 Under 30.
As a child, Erica was raised by a single father in North Portland. From a very young age, she began learning Spanish and living abroad in both Ecuador and Cuba. She watched and eventually helped her Dad grow their family real estate business. From a very young age, Erica was immersed in design, construction and customer service. At 16, she moved to China to be immersed in the culture as well as to learn Mandarin.
Tea has always been her beverage of choice. In a city saturated with coffee and very few tea shops, Erica set out to create a new experience: a space reflective of her Scandinavian roots that was approachable, modern, and welcoming toward everyone. Tea Bar's goal has always been simple: to make high quality tea approachable.
