Seemor
Teaism Dupont CircleBWorth Trying
2009 R St NW, Washington, DC 20009
· Restaurant, Asian fusion restaurant, Bubble tea store
· 4.5/5 Google (772 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
A cozy Dupont tea house with creative Pan-Asian comfort plates and standout loose-leaf selections; great for casual lunches and tea dates, with occasional service hiccups and uneven bubble tea.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Teaism Dupont Circle delivers solid neighborhood cafe quality anchored by strong food quality and an exceptional loose-leaf tea program that draws loyal regulars. Inconsistent execution—underseasoned salmon, variable broth precision—and cramped seating during peak hours prevent a higher grade, though quick counter service and charming Dupont Circle setting make it a reliable neighborhood destination for tea enthusiasts and Pan-Asian comfort seekers.
Restaurant Summary
Set in a converted row house near Dupont, the room feels warm and cozy with upstairs window seats overlooking the street. Guests rave about the tea list and quick counter flow, noting a vibe that is relaxed but lively. One diner put it simply: "We came for tea and stayed for the bento." Service is mostly friendly and fast, though a few report occasional management missteps. The cooking leans Pan-Asian comfort with a creative, bento-driven lineup: okonomiyaki, ochazuke, Thai curry, and a vegan black bean bento show range without fuss. Expect loose-leaf teas, matcha treats, and sweets like jasmine creme brulee. Flavors are generally bright and balanced, though a few mention bland or lukewarm salmon or a mild udon broth. Families find plenty that feels approachable for kids: French toast on weekends, sandwiches, rice, and cookies. More adventurous plates can be hit-or-miss for picky eaters, so steering toward simpler sides, bentos with familiar proteins, and sweet drinks keeps young diners happy.
At a Glance
- Excellent loose-leaf tea selection and cozy upstairs seating
- Creative Pan-Asian bentos and okonomiyaki with strong vegan options
- Inconsistent salmon temperature/seasoning and occasional bland broths
- Counter-service crowding and limited seating at peak
- Bubble tea quality varies; one plastic contamination report noted as isolated
What Sets It Apart
- pan_asian_bento_program
- loose_leaf_tea_selection
- cozy_upstairs_window_seating
What People Love
- Comforting bento compositions with distinct flavors
- Fresh vegan ginger scones with tea
- Chill, Zen-like upstairs vibe
- Flexible drink customizations and broad tea origins
Points of Concern
- Some salmon bentos arrive underseasoned or not hot enough
- Udon broth and Thai curry seasoning vary between visits
- Limited seating; can feel crowded and noisy at peak hours
- Review patterns note one-off safety issues (tea lid spill, plastic in boba) but not systemic
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$28-38 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair okonomiyaki with a toasty hojicha or green oolong
- Choose bentos for best value and balanced portions
- Dessert share: jasmine creme brulee with a light green tea
Perfect For
- Casual lunch after the Phillips Collection
- Tea dates with a cozy window seat
- Solo laptop sessions with light bites
- Vegetarian and vegan-friendly meetups
Location Insights
Area: Lively, walkable Dupont Circle with a mix of offices, embassies, and residential streets; popular for casual dining and coffee shops.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; well-lit main corridors and active storefronts.
Nearby: Near Phillips Collection, embassies, and neighborhood retail; convenient for museum-goers and locals.
Dupont CircleThe neighborhood offers a dynamic dining environment with a variety of restaurants ranging from casual cafes to upscale eateries. It is popular for its walkability, outdoor seating, and a mix of international cuisines, attracting a socially active and diverse crowd.
Kalorama TriangleKalorama Triangle is a sub-area within Dupont Circle known for its boutique shops, trendy restaurants, and quieter residential streets. It offers a more intimate dining experience while still being close to the bustling core of Dupont Circle.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–20:00
Tuesday11:00–20:00
Wednesday11:00–20:00
Thursday11:00–20:00
Friday11:00–20:00
Saturday11:00–20:00
Sunday11:00–20:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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