The Tea Bar (431 Lackawanna Ave., Scranton). Info: 570.941.3333
As the owner of Scranton’s Tea Bar, Alexander Vysotsky says that his new business serves “the healthiest food in NEPA.” With whole grain sandwiches, soups and more than 30 different organic teas on the menu, Vysotsky hopes that his health-conscious approach will appeal to local tea lovers, as well as those interested in a variety of organic foods.
“We want people to eat healthy,” he explains. “All of the ingredients are organic. If we cook anything, we use olive oil. We have homemade soup — vegetarian and vegan —and we also have homemade cookies made from whole grain (ingredients).”
The Tea Bar opened less than three months ago and serves breakfast and lunch. With outdoor seating available, patrons also have the choice to either eat outside or stay inside. Draped in contemporary d�cor, the bar’s interior is comfortable and provides for a unique dining experience. And although the tea bar is still in its embryonic stage, it seems to be catching on with area tea drinkers already. One customer, Bridget Coffey, says that she was satisfied after her initial visit to the tea bar.
“The food and the dessert were delicious and super-healthy,” she says. “One of the owners, Alex, was very considerate of everyone there, and wanted to know how we liked everything. Next time I make a hair appointment at Alexander’s, I will be sure to go early for some tea.”
Scranton’s Tea Bar, on the corner of Lackawanna and Washington avenues, is adjacent to Alexander’s Salon & Spa. Alexander Vysotsky does not own Alexander’s.
Another patron, Alena Vauter, who is a graduate student at nearby Marywood University, recently stopped in the tea bar after seeing it as she made her way to the Steamtown Mall.
“I like the vibe,” Vauter says. “It is all up-to-date, and it is relaxing. (The tea bar) has a wide assortment of teas and many other appealing menu items. It is a good place for people who are maybe going on a first date. I like how they make the food right in front of you.”
Originally from Russia, both Vysotsky and his wife, Natasha, felt ready to open the tea bar after spending years working in various occupations. As a former caf� worker, Vysotsky says his past experiences have helped him, and he is confident in his ability to manage the tea bar. Natasha joins her husband as a chef and business partner.
Tea is traditionally classified by the types of leaves used — green, black, yellow, white — and can be combined with different plants to create different flavors. Organic teas, the predominant kind served at the tea bar, are devoid of chemical additives during the growing process and are, as a general rule, considered to be healthier for the tea drinker.
According to Vysotsky, patrons have been receptive to his all-organic menu at the tea bar.
“Business has been going very well,” he says. “Some customers come in twice a week; some three times a week. All the teas are organic, (and) customers are very appreciative.”
When asked what the biggest challenge of operating a business is, Vysotsky says that aside from handling the day-to-day operations, he has been fortunate not to face any serious problems. He hopes that by offering patrons good service and a healthy alternative for breakfast and lunch, they will continue to support his business.
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