I am, as I'm very fond of declaring, a tea person. I made the switch from coffee, oh, back in 2001, and I've never looked back. Such is my affinity that I carry bags around in my purse like an old lady does Kleenex, and I'm proud to say that I've converted at least two people to the softer side of caffeination. So I'm particularly pleased to see a new teahouse in town, Hina's Tea at 24th and K.

I've been meaning to check the place out, and finally stopped in today. The decor is very zen and minimalist, with sparten white walls and a cool, pebbled floor. I was browsing the selection when I was approached by a delightful saleslady who told me she loved me when I told her that my tea of choice is Irish breakfast. I like being told that I'm loved, so now I officially love her back.

Unsolicited statements of affinity aside, I would have liked her anyway based on her ample product knowledge and clear love of the leaf. I walked away with four ounces of loose leaf Irish breakfast and a smaller bag of green tea with lychee and jasmine, both of which I can't wait to try. Bring on the crumpets.