In the world of caffeine, tea is often treated like a second class citizen. People defer to coffee over tea as an integral part of their morning routine.

Don’t dismiss the refreshing sophistication of a steaming cup of tea. During this cold and flu season, the antioxidants in tea can even give your immune system a boost.

Let’s spill the tea on the best types of tea around campus.

Starbucks Chai Latte

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Centrally located at the Holmes Student Center, The College Grind proudly serves Starbucks. Their chai latte is a warm, dominantly sweet frothy drink topped with foam. The black tea has a hint of cinnamon and clove spices to distinguish it from an otherwise sweet milk drink.

Celestial Sugar Cookie Sleigh Ride Herbal Tea

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Start celebrating the holidays early with the taste of a classic homemade treat. This caffeine-free sugar cookie tea bag smells reminiscent of root beer with zesty orange and warm vanilla flavorings.

Once the tea bag is steeped, the flavors combine to create a flavor similar to the sweetness of a cookie; there’s no need to use any additional sweeteners like honey or sugar. While it’s a creative concept to bring to a drink, it doesn’t translate well to tea.

Caribou Coffee & Einstein Bros. Bagels Chai Tea Latte

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Newer to NIU is Caribou Coffee & Einstein Bros. Bagels, located in the basement of the Founders Memorial Library. It’s outfitted with tables and booths to study at while sipping on a warm drink.

This chai tea is still sweet, but less so than the Starbucks chai. I can taste more of the creaminess of the milk and a broader range of spices. The drink is less heavy than a Starbucks latte, so it’s more suitable to drink first thing in the morning or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Lipton Black Tea

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One of my earliest memories is drinking warm black tea, sweetened by honey, while I was feeling under the weather. Depending on your palate, add as much honey or sugar for sweetness. You could also add a splash of milk for a creamier taste.

Starbucks Matcha Green Tea Latte

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The Starbucks matcha green tea latte’s unique pistachio color is matched by its flavor. This tea combines the frothy milk consistency of a latte with the earthy taste of matcha.

This drink is available at Starbucks in Barsema Hall’s Three Son’s Café and at East Side Café in Gilbert Hall. ‘Tis the holiday season, so each Starbucks drinks comes in brightly colored Christmas cups.

Follow this unofficial guide to spill all the tea this winter- just don’t get burned!

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