Tin Roof Tea: 14 years of serving Raleigh with quality loose leaf tea
Tin Roof Tea, a locally owned business in Raleigh, has been serving the community with quality loose leaf tea for over 14 years.
Origin story
Tin Roof Tea was born out of a need for better sleep. Ryan Hinson, co-owner of the business, started drinking tea as a solution for his insomnia back in 2009. Frustrated by the lack of loose leaf tea options in the market at that time, he took matters into his own hands. Hinson frequented health food stores to find organic tea, eventually leading him to explore loose leaf options.
"My brother and I discussed going into the business together, and I put together a plan," Hinson says. After attending the World Tea Expo, they opened their first shop within months.
Evolution and expansion
Initially, the Hinson brothers partnered with global chain, TeaGschwendner, but within a year they decided to go at it alone. From there, Tin Roof Teas was born. Hinson and his brother embraced the community's diverse taste preferences and started expanding their tea offerings to cater to various palates.
"Raleigh's taste in tea has changed over the past 14 years," Hinson says. The growing demand and evolving trends led them to stock over 400 varieties of teas, each carefully tested for quality and many sourced organically.
Community involvement
Tin Roof Tea has always been community-driven, engaging with various local businesses and artisans. Organic, raw honey is locally sourced and local potters contribute their craft to create unique tea accessories. Hinson emphasizes supporting local produce, including the collaboration with Pine State Coffee and their involvement with businesses like Two Roosters for tea-infused ice creams and beers.
"We try to do as much as we can locally," Hinson says, reflecting their dedication to building a sustainable and interconnected community.
Tea Tastings and future plans
Tin Roof Tea has a long history of hosting vibrant tea tastings and events. These interactive experiences allow tea lovers to explore the diverse flavors and benefits of their extensive tea collection. Hinson hints that tea tastings will resume during the fall and holiday season, giving customers an opportunity to indulge in new and exciting tea discoveries.
Additionally, Tin Roof Tea boasts a thriving online presence, shipping their teas across the United States. Hinson's focus on continually expanding the business has led to the addition of more classic tea sets and an extensive range of accessories to suit every tea lover's style.
Tin Roof Tea is a testament to the power of passion, community and adaptability. Ryan Hinson's vision for a tea shop that offered high-quality loose leaf teas and supported local artisans has become a reality. With a commitment to quality, involvement in the community, and a growing online presence, Tin Roof Tea continues to be a gathering place for tea enthusiasts in Raleigh.
Tin Roof Teas
432 Daniels St.
Raleigh, NC 27605
