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5.0

Based on 68 opinions finded in 1 websites

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Nº 2 in 227 in North Dorset

Nº 2 of 61 British in North Dorset

CUSTOMERS TALK ABOUT DISHES WITH..cakedumplings
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OpinionsNoteTripAdvisor685.0

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More than just a leading Tea House, Comins Sturminster Newton is a very coeliac friendly café.  Full 5* review at CoeliacwellNES.com.  They have soft doughy GF gyoza, gluten free sweet treats and obviously phenomenal tea.  A lovely place to watch all the comins and goings, will try out the Bath branch soon!

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CoeliacWellNES . 2021-06-19

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An amazing family run tea house. The owners are incredibly knowledgable and passionate about tea and it shows in how this place is run. I’ve visited many times and try to have a different tea on each occasion. Not found one I don’t like! Fantastic place

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Hannah Hannam . 2020-03-30

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Awesome to find a real tea house in Sturminster Newton serving a good selection of tea from the Far East and India. Michelle will guide you through their personally sourced teas. For the uninitiated like us, it is just fun working our way through the list. Lovely atmosphere where friendly patrons chat with each other effortlessly. Always look forward to going for a slow tea experience, to unwind and to chat. They serve dumplings as well as cakes. Dog friendly too. What's not to like?

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Tim029 . 2020-02-29

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We made a detour on the way to Devon to visit the Sturminster tea room as we had so loved our time at the Bath tea room. It was well worth it. Michelle made us feel very welcome, we had delicious gyoza, fantastic reviving tea and a peaceful time in the garden. It was so good we stopped again on our way back and it was fantastic again.

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Sarah J . 2019-07-14

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Wow! What a place, exceeded my expectations. We went for my birthday treat as a family and I expected a bog standard afternoon tea with a bit of tea tasting thrown in. How wrong could I be! Imagine high class wine tasting, only with tea and fabulously different afternoon tea. Cakes and open sandwiches specifically picked to compliment the tea, food inspired by the owners' travels around the world. Michelle expertly guided us through the tea menu, helping us choose and try teas we would never have tried ourselves. We tasted 7 teas in the hour and three quarters we stayed. It was absolutely wonderful! Thank you Michelle, so much.

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Ally.x Wright . 2019-07-13

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If you love tea go here its unbelievable how much choice there is from around the world and the host will explain everything about the tea you choose and the proper way to pour infuse and enjoy your tea

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LAJQPR . 2019-06-23

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Who would think afternoon tea could be such a relaxing and pleasurable experience but is exactly what we had the good fortune to have when we visited for afternoon tea. Excellent food fasinating background to the wonderful tea we drank and SO relaxing. Thank you so much Michelle for sharing your knowledge and love of a culture that we could all take some time to benefit in our hectic lives. When I make my"tea" purchased in the shop it makes me take time out to enjoy this simple pleasure. Thank you

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wendywoodland . 2019-04-21

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Today was our first time going, we’d been planning for months to go but had never gotten around to going, I wish now we’d gone sooner! We were greeted so kindly and got told about the system and what the business is about by Michelle the owner. Online we had seen their menu and saw the option of tea, gyoza and ice cream so decided to go for that. Unfortunately there was no ice cream, but we had the option of some Matcha and white chocolate cookies, which were AMAZING! It was a completely new experience for us as we’d never eaten any Japanese food before and we definitely will be having it again! The tea was delicious and the experience even better! It was lovely to just sit and chat to Michelle about travel and tea. We’ve only just got home and we cannot wait to come again! Thank you again Michelle.

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260lucyf . 2019-02-28

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I booked afternoon tea for my husband's birthday and we were six adults. The place was busy with satisfied customers enjoying a wet saturday afternoon with top quality tea, with plenty of water for top ups and fantastic and knowledgeable service from Michelle the owner. We were greeted warmly and led to our table where Michelle had even custom made birthday menus for us. She managed all the requirements of many of us who had not had instruction in proper tea before and we loved the way she prepared and poured them for each drinker. The teas were fabulous and I was so happy my husband liked the experience as it was a risk, his not being a tea afficionado. The food was fantastic, the tartines were laden high with delicious fillings. Our second choices of teas were as good as the first and were accompanied by cakes and matcha biscuits as well as really light and tasty blueberry muffins. We felt indulged, looked after and welcome. We travelled 20 miles for this and it was absolutely worth it. It was my 4th time and my families first all together. It really won't be the last and the only reason I don't take all my friends there is that I want to keep it to myself as a get away. However, I have promised to take a few! Michelle, thank you so much. It was a triumph. Cant recommend it more.

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crowther312 . 2018-11-25

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I thought I knew tea but this experience was so different! Wonderful hostess and superb tea. I bought 1 pack and will go online for more. Definite revisit when in the area once more. Faultless.

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TouristEastMidlands . 2018-09-14

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If you like tea don't miss. The cakes are pretty good too. A vast range of teas served to perfection.

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DaveMsomerset . 2018-07-06

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One of my favourite places to have afternoon tea. And it isn't just tea, is it? The perfect brew, the right teapot, the right sipping cup and so many to choose from. Michelle today took our last minute order to pop in for afternoon tea and provided us with a banquet of deliciousness and teas so good we took them home. Everything was freshly made and delivered with a very personal touch and we loved chatting to Michelle about her travels all in the name of tea. This wasn't our first visit and it certainly won't be our last but wanted to mention it particularly this time because it was so special. It isn't every day you get to spend time sipping tea, talking and listening to your daughter, eating lovely food and chatting with the owner and tea expert. We both loved the experience. Thanks Michelle!

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crowther312 . 2018-04-06

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Comins is the only place in England that can properly brew tea. Forget the sad excuses for tea you've come across in the millions of tea shops around the country and try this place, you will not regret it! The staff has a high knowledge of their products, and do their thing with great care and passion. They are also very helpful, and the teas offered are of excellent standard. I especially like that they actually meet the tea producers and make the effort in sourcing in various places by themselves; this allows for a more fair trade. My only regret was that I was only able to visit both shops twice thus far.

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Veera P . 2018-03-20

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I have been here several times now with either a friend or my other half. I absolutely love it and can't fault it at all. The family owners are so welcoming and passionate about what they do, as is the lovely girl that has severed us several times (and has to put up with me chatting away non stop!). I have had several different teas and loved them all. You can buy some to take home which I have also done. The gyoza is divine as are the cakes, all made on site! The whole experience is wonderful and relaxing. You are shown how to serve the tea subject to what you have chosen and given info on the traditional tea service. I can't recommend this enough & if you do go, make sure you don't rush as you will not get the full experience. I plan to go again very soon, it has also almost become a designated place to catch up with a friend who is away alot and we are never rushed to finish and go.

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NibblesinNooks . 2017-11-04

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We arrived 1h30m late for our afternoon tea booking, but they kindly stayed open. Their knowledge and enthusiasm was contagious. It was interesting, fun and above all, delicious. Would definitely visit again, here or the bath store. Truly a wonderful experience!

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S I . 2017-11-02

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I came here with my sister and friend for a catch up. After hearing very good things about this place I was very much looking forward to going!

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Moominlars . 2017-08-27

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Dos amigos y yo (además de un 7 semana antiguo) visitado para el té de la tarde y fue una experiencia maravillosa. El menú de té era explicó al principio (justo la suficiente información pero nos ofrecieron más si queríamos). El té de la tarde consistía en 4 sándwiches abiertos, un bollo de arándanos con crema y mermelada y 4 tartas diferentes. En el lugar y casero absolutamente delicioso. La pareja que regentaba el lugar son muy atento y conocedor - nos sentimos muy bien cuidados.

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CMiller87 . 2017-07-05

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Teníamos una increíble menú de almuerzo. Mi marido tenía la opción de india, tuve el japonés. Ambos venían con té a juego. Este era un experiencia de sabor y olor, realzado por la información dada por el propietario y miembro del personal. Muchas gracias.

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SUE L . 2017-04-07

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Este no es un típico café o té/café estilo house. El énfasis está en tomándose su tiempo, disfrutando de la experiencia del té. Explorar nuevos sabores y estilos de ambos métodos de beber té y ellos. Yo vengo a menudo para almorzar con mi negocio y traer mi familia algunos fines de semana es el lugar perfecto para descansar y relajarse. El servicio y el conocimiento del té es excelente y estoy reconocido cada vez que asistimos, no puedo recomendar este lugar!

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Jason H . 2017-03-27

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La verdad es que viajar a oriente cuando entras en esta joya. También se muestra cómo el arte delicado de cómo hacer la taza perfecta de té. Usted no encontrará bergamota, té desayuno inglés aquí, mezclas más exótico son escogidos por la maravillosa gente que lleva este establecimiento. Para tener una experiencia aquí con usted como un maravilloso recuerdo.

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tara p . 2017-02-26

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Highly recommend and our favourite place. Lovely owner and staff and great dumplings and cakes! Lovely atmosphere and so relaxing. Such a huge selection of teas and knowledgeable staff.

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Sarah S . 2016-10-20

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Té relajante! Nuestras vacaciones, planes anómala nos llevó a bañera y Dorset, así que terminó de tomar té en ambas tiendas comins. Son absolutamente maravilloso. Si estás relajado, y lo que tiene el tiempo de vagar, los tés rebrewable son una excelente relación calidad-precio, ya...

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Jonathan H . 2016-08-12

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Una experiencia increíblemente diferentes de té. Me encanta estar aquí, la sensación de ser recibidos en el pliegue. Una maravillosa selección de tés de todo el mundo (tengo mi favorito!), con un menú de calidad que no encontrará en ningún otro sitio. Michelle y Rob hacen de este un lugar realmente especial y experiencia! Podrá ser difícil encontrar un lugar mejor.

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Illana1S . 2016-06-01

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Michelle and Rob are a great team who are passionate about tea and all of the fine traditions that go with it. Having lived in HK for 8 years, we were pleasantly surprised to see such a range of teas, and all of the knowledge and etiquette of how to enjoy them, in this very sweet spot in Dorset. Michelle did a marvellous job of catering for my gluten free daughter and the flourless chocolate cake was devoured just as happily by my son who was celebrating his Birthday. The blueberry scones were some of the best scones I have ever had. If you are in this part of the world I would highly recommend a visit to this unique and most welcoming, friendly and enjoyable tea shop.

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Georges L . 2016-05-18

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Until this place opened I was a 'normal' tea drinker, taking the uninitiated choice of good old tea bags. However, was recommended by a friend and have never looked back. Not only are the days of a paper dust film on top of the cup gone, to be replaced with crystal clear tea, but having the expert knowledge of two lovely people explaining the nuances of all of their great selection is just wonderful.

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allanrobson . 2016-05-18

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Rob is very welcoming and explains your "tea drinking" very clearly and makes it a real pleasure.....we had Japanese dumplings for lunch and they were so very tasty followed by some lovely cakes! Such a pleasure to visit....

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Pauline F . 2016-02-12

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A lunch stop on our round walk between Child Okeford and Sturminster. I left refreshed and replete and ready to walk the next 5 miles. I can't recommend this little gem highly enough!

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SueLesley2015 . 2015-12-06

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Forget everything you thought you knew about tea! Popped into Commins on a particularly wet afternoon because we were running out of ideas for things to do with our friends who were staying. Turned out to be the highlight of the weekend. Forget table cloths, retro China and heaving plates of cake. Here you get tea like you've never had it before. We were given the warmest of welcomes and spent 2 hours learning all about different teas and trying them out. Pure theatre and a great experience even if you thought you don't like tea! Amazing value too. If you want to try something really different, go for it!

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Claire T . 2015-11-19

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I visited with my sister and father in late September - having tried to keep our father's vast experience of tea (he used to own his own tea house) a secret from the owners so that we could experience their full run down of what was available. What resulted was a knowledgeable, interesting and informative exchange followed by several sample teas and a very different foodie experience. If you're looking for refreshment in pleasant surroundings with an excellent choice of teas and homemade cooking with a difference this is the place for you. Highly recommended.

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Jo N . 2015-10-13

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A destination with a difference. Not your ordinary tea house; passion and knowledge abounds in this contemporary tea house focussing on the tea experience. Visit and tell your friends.

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Sarah F . 2015-10-04

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We stopped by at the tea house whilst we were on a long walk as we fancied a few drinks and we had a fantastic experience. The guy who was running the tea house gave us a detailed run through of all the different teas which was really interesting. When he bought the teas out it was great to be taught the correct temperatures and styles of brewing each type of tea. The small patio courtyard out the back was extremely relaxing to sit in and we were extremely glad we decided to stop.

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Brit_travellerUK . 2015-08-28

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This is not just a tea house, it is educational and a unique experience. The owner talked us through the different teas on offer and also showed us how best to make them (differently in each case). We (a group of five) ordered three different teas - from Taiwan, India and Japan and were also treated to a free tasting of a premium tea from China. The scones were also delicious. The owner was welcoming and informative. Our (12 yo +) children loved it and stayed behind tea-making while we explored the village. As others said, avoid if you just want PG Tips and buns. Cannot recommend this highly enough.

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Kiri_kh . 2015-08-07

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This is a wondefuld little tea shop, just on the side of the road of this little town. They have a huge variety of teas, and the owners are very knowledgeable about all their products and their sourcing. They are obviously very passionate about their shop and it shows.Not only is their a lot to choose from in the form of tea, the food here is also delicious, mysellf having had the gyoza, little dumplings with a choice of different meat or vegetable fillings. Their tea cakes and shortbread are also a weakness of mine. Everything here is delicious!

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Julia S . 2015-07-07

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This is a delightful experience but don't expect a cup of builders brew & a teacake! I was served by one of the owners who is so passionate & informative about teas, their origins & how to brew & drink the many different varieties on offer. The ambience of the cafe is peaceful calming & very relaxing. The proprietors will spend as long as you want chatting & their enthusiasm is all apparent. Do make the effort to visit it if you are in this area of North Dorset.

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Joannagray57 . 2015-06-30

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This is an experience especially if you love the idea of a tea ceremony. Everything about each tea is carefully explained. You are given a timer, flask of water and special types of receptacles to go with each brew. This is more than a cafe and truly is a tea house and a unique experience!

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ANGELA Y . 2015-06-27

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Fabulous teas and very knowledgeable and friendly couple who run it. Visit if you can for an English Tea Ceremony! Our order on line for some of the most sublime teas I've ever tasted. I love oolong and green tea especially. Fortnums isn't a patch on this place

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Ewan S . 2015-04-17

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We came across Comins Tea House whilst enjoying a few hours off work without the kids. Sturminster Newton ("Stur" to the locals) is a lovely Dorset country town with some wonderful walks along an old disused railway line or down by the river. As we wandered we came across this tea house. It was nothing like any tea house we'd come across in Dorset and we were unsure whether we would step across the threshold. Instead of carpets and dark furniture with a menu on the windows that spoke of eggs on toast, apple cake and PG Tips, we were presented with something quite unusual and minimalist. The co-founder, Rob, saw our confusion and came out to invite us to explore with no commitment. What we found was astonishing. A business that is passionate about tea. Now I'm a coffee lover; I have been to places in Dorset where there are coffee geeks - truly, people who can bore for Britain on coffee (but who make up for it by providing a cup of Joe that is amazing). Rob did the same (not the boring bit - v informative). The choice and variety of tea, which he imports himself from small traders in Japan, China, India, Taiwan, Sri Lanka etc etc, is phenomenal. My wife had a cup of white tea (Indian Silver Needle which was subtle, delicate and refreshing). I had a cup of traditional Japanese Green Tea that I've seen served on Japanese movies with great ceremony and lots of froth (it looked and tasted like a beautiful field of spring grass). If that turns you off, bear in mind that there were many comforting familiar black teas among the choices. We just wanted to try things we hadn't before and found the experience very rewarding. Along with the tea we ordered traditional Japanese and Indian dumplings and wonderful grated cheese with fresh herbs and green salad served on bread with chutney and a tomato salad. All told the experience turned an ordinary afternoon into something quite special. Rob was lovely, engaging and informative without being pushy or intrusive. Incidentally, while we were there there were mothers and children enjoying lunch too, so this isn't a sophisticated destination for adults only - it is, but I'd happily take my children who would feel right at home with Rob's warm character and food that is at once familiar and unusual. Rob and his wife have been making a success of their business in this traditional and beautiful Dorset town for over 2 years now. It is testament to their passion, their unique product and their warm welcome that they are so successful. Unlike us, don't hesitate, step across the threshold. Even if you are a coffee lover you won't be disappointed. We will certainly go back.

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Ron M . 2015-03-26

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Firstly I ordered their yes on line and was astounded at the quality. Then I discovered they were local to my parents so dropped in one day for a chat abs, of course, to taste a few more varieties. I'm a green tea nit and really these are better than any I've had in the UK - ever. The dong ding and the lishan spring are fabulous. The owners are really helpful and Michelle a fabulous host and top tea mistress. Well done and I'll be getting my teas from here as long as they are here.

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Ewan S . 2015-01-21

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Lovely experience with fantastic service and wonderfully relaxing atmosphere. Amazing food and cakes.

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dorheath . 2014-12-29

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Suitable venue for anyone remotely interested in loose leaf teas. They hold a wide selection of teas and are very knowledgeable about each of them - appropriately, since they source them. The food is also refreshing and well prepared.

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snooglecat . 2014-12-16

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What a lovely, tasty tea experience...we had a different tea for each of us and the whole experience was fabulous.I especially enjoyed the explanation of each tea and the different ways each teas was served...

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Turiccki . 2014-12-03

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The place for the sophisticated tea lover, amazing selection of teas accompanied by a detailed explanation of their qualities, brewing technique and how to get the best of every tea. alongside the teas you'll find very refreshing meals suitable for a light lunch. all home made and served with care and attention. A real gem of a place.

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Adi A . 2014-11-04

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This is tea with a difference! The gyoza(Japanese dumpling) is a must and the cakes are excellent! The service is always great.

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Lone R . 2014-08-19

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As a novice tea drinker it was great to come somewhere where their product and service is their passion. It comes across in all that they do. Highly recommended. Great tea and of course, great tea cake!

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Cormaclinehan . 2014-07-30

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Love it...fab choice of teas most of which I had never heard of but am now looking forward to trying more! Good food and of course great service, always a smile. Lovely people who are dedicated to tea and really know their stuff, definately worth a visit if you are in town.

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mackdoo66 . 2014-07-28

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Wow what a great find! Comins Tea House is tucked away in the market town of Sturminster Newton in Dorset and warrants a special trip as a destination in its own right. On our holiday to the U.K, we planned a tea experience at Comins Tea House and it was definitely worth the drive. We had a wonderful afternoon of delicious cakes, perfect dumplings and of course several bowls of lovely tea. We had read the previous reviews on TripAdvisor, and owners Rob and Michelle Comins are deserving of all the praise for creating a glorious tea experience. It is a modern and relaxing way to enjoy tea and celebrate the love of tea. Rob and Michelle very engagingly and expertly explain the different fine loose leaf tea choices from light greens to bold blacks. We tried several bowls of hot teas and a very refreshingly light bowl of ice brewed tea (not American iced tea...much better) served in their own bespoke crockery. The food was fantastic as well. We had hand made pork and vegetable gyoza, freshly baked carrot cake (with a lovely orange zest), beautiful scones with locally sourced clotted cream, and a decadent flour-less chocolate cake all made at the shop...double yum! The decor was a perfect backdrop, with clean lines, slate floor and soothing colours housed in renovated Georgian building. This was amazingly good value too as a bowl of tea was just £3.50 and could be brewed several times with the accompanying pot of perfectly heated water...a similar cup would cost at least £7 in London. Can you tell we really liked this place? Only problem now? How will I ever be able to throw my sad little tea bag into a cup of boiling water at home...knowing there is a perfect bowl of tea waiting for me at Comins Tea House!

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bpd4 . 2014-07-02

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I really cannot rate this tea shop highly enough. As you walk in through the door from the busy main road you are suddenly in a cool little oasis of calm. The enthusiasm of the owners bubbles out as they take you through the different teas on their menu. Forget any preconceptions you have about 'fancy' teas - this is proper tea- how it is supposed to be drunk. Each tea has it's own brewing technique to get the best from the leaves or blend. The careful preparation ensures the delicate flavours are not destroyed. You'll be amazed at the difference in flavours between them, some are pungent, some aromatic, some smokey and others light and fragrant. With delicious pork or chicken gyoza and fresh salads with humous this is the place to come if you want to get over a hangover, kick start a healthy eating regime or just to have a light lunch! This is also a great place to bring friends as they will enjoy the 'participation' and getting involved in the choices of teas - this is a very fun food experience! The food and tea is extremely reasonable - after sampling some other tea rooms in Sturminster I have to admit there is no comparison. Comins is heads above the rest!

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Southwestvet . 2014-06-24

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This is one of those place that you visit as a must do destination in dorset the passion knowledge is breathtaking. Sencha is my tipple what is yours, try those without milk for a unique new experience. Cakes and lunch as well what are you waiting for?

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noomad . 2014-06-21

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I love this place! A lovely little tea house in Sturminster Newton, Dorset. Real loose tea is served how it should be. With a wide selection of refreshing brews served in the correct pots and cups. You are also given a timer to time each brew for the perfect cup. It didn't know drinking tea could be so much fun. Home made dumplings are also served which are a perfect complement.Well worth a visit.

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Travelplod . 2014-05-27

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A friendly welcome, outstanding service and a unique tea experience, as well as delicious healthy menu including a gluten free option!

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Jane S . 2014-05-03

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Group of 10 spent a very interesting afternoon being educated in how to take tea.Excellent hosts who even cater for gluten free diets.Well worth a detour to visit this establishment.

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Robert H . 2014-03-16

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Great to have a real tea house in the heart of Dorset. Rob is a passionate tea lover and an excellent host.Enjoyed the Taiwanese Oolong and the local cheddar cheese pittas.Will be back for sure.

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Wan-Ling-Tea . 2014-03-01

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I've visited Comins Tea House several times now and have always enjoyed the experience. I've been introduced to some very special teas by the owners and love learning the different ways in which each tea should be prepared. Whenever I've been there, I've appreciated the nice, quiet atmosphere as people savour their teas and unwind. I love the tea bread they serve too.

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eur0pia . 2014-01-12

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If you want to learn about tea then this is the place to visit. The host could not be more welcoming and informative and is really passionate about tea. A very pleasant and relaxing way to chill out for an hour so - just don't expect to be able to call in for a quick cuppa - that's not the way this place works - so make sure you have enough parking time on the car park ticket to really enjoy the experience.

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Wessex1805 . 2013-12-15

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Just a very lovely place!!! Superb teas from all over the world and great cakes (try orange and almond if there is any left). Go and treat yourself to this wonderful experience!

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snowdrop1985 . 2013-11-08

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This was both an educational as well as an enjoyable experience. My wife and I were taught how to enjoy a cup of tea in the authentic Chinese (not Japanese I was informed!) ceremonial way in additional to the actual soothing (or bracing depending on which black, green or white tea you selected) cuppa that we consumed.The actual pot, drinking vessel, jug, flask of hot water and timer all contributed to the experience which was ably presided over by the joint owner whose husband was away selecting teas in Taiwan.The tea cake and tiffin were absolutely delicious and the only problem to solve is whether to have the same teas and cakes on the next visit or to boldly sample other items from the extensive menu.

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Mike789123 . 2013-10-25

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We were given information on the different teas and how long they should be brewed for. The food is also excellent. We had the dumplings which were more like spring rolls and delicious.

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BeaDorset . 2013-10-18

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My wife and I have been to Comins Tea House once before for tea and lunch, both of which were exceptional. There were many teas that we hadn't heard of and so we pre arranged a tea tasting session followed by afternoon tea. We tasted several teas, some as suggested by Rob and some of our own choosing, all of which were brewed to give their optimum taste. Rob told us about each tea including some of the history and derivation of the names. It was very informative and allowed us to choose what have now become our 'everyday' teas plus a couple to have for a relaxing evening.And then there was the afternoon tea - it looked amazing and was very tasty (not the finger sanwiches you normally associate with an English Afternoon Tea but much tastier) see attached pictures.The tea and food were top class, the service was exceptional and Rob & Michelle are delightful hosts. It's about an hours drive from home but is so good I will be going back and have already recommended it to friends.

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Andrew G . 2013-10-16

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My wife and I spent a very interesting hour learning about and drinking tea.The owner spent a lot of time teaching us about the wide varieties of teas, as well as making us quite a few different ones. All for the price of one pot!Well worth a visit if you are in the area or want to learn and try a new tea.

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Mick H . 2013-10-14

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Who knew that a quiet market town in the deepest depths of Dorset, could harbour a world class tea room? Anyone who has gone to the time and expense to take afternoon tea at The Ritz should be setting their Satnavs to DT10, where an altogether more authentic pleasure awaits. Comins Tea House is set in a double fronted Georgian building, decorated in a tasteful modern style, with such detailed touches as their very own crockery and napkins. Everything has an elegant simplicity which of course is in sharp contrast to the fresh food and teas. All that passes your lips is far from simple. Both strong and subtle tasting notes in the dazzling array of teas along with a plethora of expertly crafted fine food, from savouries to cakes will delight your senses. We were amazed at the variety of flavours to be had, even between the first and second flush Darjeelings, never mind the sweet pea bouquet of the delightfully named Dong Ding, or the smoky aromas of the other ceremonially prepared oolong teas. All you ever wanted to know about tea and how to prepare it properly (but were afraid to ask, as hardly anyone seems to know these days!) is at your whim to find out, as Rob and Michelle will delight in explaining. I highly recommend that you have lunch, cake or the full afternoon tea experience here, but whatever you do, put experiencing Comins tea on the top of your bucket list!

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Helsbiggerpicture . 2013-10-10

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Wow what a lovely place to have a PROPER cup of tea. There are many teas to choose from but don't be daunted by this as the owner will come to talk to you about not only the teas but your preferences and even well being! He is very very knowledgeable about tea & if I hadn't have been meeting up with a friend I could have talked tea for hours.Once your tea arrives, the ceremony begins - go there for yourself to experience this.If the weather is fine they have a wonderfully peaceful courtyard adorned with a fig tree to sit out in. It's all spotlessly clean & the service was as service should be - with a smile!They even serve Gluten Free muffins and cake!I can't wait to go there again.

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Alithefrog . 2013-06-27

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We first met the Comins's when the Tea House was but a dream. Called in the other day to see the dream turned to reality. Loved the elegant simplicity of the ash interior. Great selection of teas, professionally and enthusiastically explained and served. Really shows you how to bring out the flavours and enjoy the ceremony of tea drinking.

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Peter H . 2013-06-22

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The owner serves you, explaining features of the tea you have chosen from the 16 on offer and advising on how long to brew for best taste. When asked, he can tell you of his travels to tea plantations and how he first became so passionate about tea, and why he goes to tea tasting courses. Spotless and sophisticated, this tea house has a small outside courtyard at the back... the cakes looked great too! Well worth making a special trip to go....

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Andrea P . 2013-06-17

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This turned an afternoon enjoying a drink with a friend, into a really fun, delicious experience! Highly recommended!

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bchealos . 2013-06-06

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As tea tasting novices it was refreshing to taste some new and interesting teas! The owners were very welcoming and knowledgable. I hope your new venture thrives!

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Vphill . 2013-06-06

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What lovely experience with a lovely couple, not to mention the fabulous selection of tea. Popped in to Comins with friends while out testing the Murder Mystery Trail around Sturminster Newton. Worth making a special trip.

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Cjay407 . 2013-06-01

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In the world of tourism, 'experience' is a word hideously over-used, but Comins Tea House really is a Tea Experience, where a good tea is treated with as much passion and knowledge as a fine wine. The decor is pared back and stylish, but the enthusiasm of the owners is full-on. This is tea as theatre, and I'm looking forward to working my way through the menu. Sturminster Newton is the hidden gem of Dorset, and Comins Tea House is the hidden gem of the hidden gem.

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Hilary D . 2013-04-30

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Lovely tea house in Sturminster Newton run by a youg couple who really deserve to succeed..Rob and Michelle Comins..Not your average cuppa and bun - this is the real McCoy

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travelaround71 . 2013-04-28

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