The history of tea dates back over 5,000 years, originating in ancient China. Legend has it that in 2737 BCE, Emperor Shen Nong discovered tea when tea leaves accidentally fell into his boiling water. Intrigued by the aroma and taste, he began to explore the beverage’s potential medicinal properties. Today, tea is a global beverage enjoyed in diverse forms and cultural contexts. Cha Redefine, which opened last year at The Shops at Santa Anita, puts a modern twist on the traditional tea culture. It combines traditional tea with modern brewing methods infused with local ingredients to create a taste and aroma like no other. 

The menu offers six base tea varieties: Sri Lanka Ceylon Black Tea, Fujian An Xi Oolong Tea, Fujian Jasmine Green Tea, Wu Yi Mountain Da Hong Pao Tea, Taiwan Four Seasons High Mountain Oolong Tea, and Cha Redefine Uji Jade Grade Matcha. 

Sri Lanka Ceylon Black Tea stands out for its exceptional quality, boasting a vibrant orange-red hue and a bright infusion.It has a floral fragrance and invigorating taste, making it a true sensory experience.

Fujian An Xi Oolong Tea, a semi-fermented delight, offers a distinctive natural floral aroma that beautifully combines the quality characteristics of both black and green teas, providing a unique and satisfying cup.

For enthusiasts of infused aromas, Fujian Jasmine Green Tea is a perfect choice. Crafted from high-quality baked green tea and delicately smoked with jasmine, it offers a fragrant and soothing brew that captivates the senses. 

Along with that, experience a harmonious fusion of green and black teas in Wu Yi Mountain Da Hong Pao Tea. Notable for its distinctive aroma and enduring taste, this blend promises a unique and memorable tea-drinking experience. 

Taiwan Four Seasons High Mountain Oolong Tea is a celebration of oolong and green tea characteristics, presenting a mild yet flavorful profile that delights the palate with its nuanced taste and aroma. 

Finally, savor the excellence of Cha Redefine Uji Jade Grade Matcha, meticulously crafted from hand-picked green tea leaves. This matcha unfolds as a testament to quality, embodying the rich heritage and refined flavors that define our tea selection.

They have a variety of drink options that range from $4 to $8, depending on the toppings you add. Some of their most popular drinks include Blueberry Oat Milk Matcha Latte, Matcha Tornado, Sri Lanka Ceylon Cha Latte, and Osmanthus Cream Foam Cha. 

When enjoying a cup of tea from Cha Redefine, you can expect a commitment to quality, including house-made sugar, the absence of powdered creamer, and the use of eco-friendly, biodegradable packaging.

However, its menu is not limited to just teas; they also offer matcha and Sri Lanka milk tea soft serve for $5. I had the pleasure of trying the matcha soft serve. The matcha soft serve had the perfect blend of creaminess, flavor, and thickness that made each bite a delightful experience. The matcha flavor stood out in a really good way, giving it a unique and enjoyable taste. Plus, the texture was smooth and velvety, making it a truly satisfying and indulgent dessert. It’s a must-try if you’re into matcha or just looking for a delicious sweet treat!

“I liked how they served soft serve as well as drinks,” stated junior Erline Choon. “It was honestly some of the best matcha ice cream I’ve had in a while.” 

The interior of Cha Redefine was nicely decorated with the display of their products and merchandise. The shop was also very clean, and the service was welcoming and friendly. 

Cha Redefine definitely redefines the tea experience, seamlessly blending traditional and modern elements. Its diverse menu of various tea varieties and soft serves make it a must-try place. It is an excellent choice if you are looking for a quick afternoon tea break or a place to chat with friends.