Today's adventure was due in part to our friend Christine Colby getting into the Graduate Student Show at The Clay Studio in Old City. In celebration, we all set off to congratulate her at the opening. Originally the intention was to hit up Ray's Cafe & Tea House in the heart of Chinatown, but for the second time now the computer has lead me astray. Ray's is still in business, but it did not occur to me they would be closed for the holiday weekend (of course!). A little weary, we continued on, hoping to hit someplace before we made it all the way to the gallery. We happened upon Cafe Ole at 147 North Third Street. The place was packed on this beautiful Friday evening, both inside and out. Seating in front and on the side of the cafe allowed patrons to people-watch and the comfy couches inside seemed to be filled with old friends catching up. Relieved, we found a table for six in the back. Catching all of our eyes, almost simultaneously, were the gorgeous glasses of fresh ice tea (tropical green tea or raspberry black tea) being served that were absolutely stuffed with fresh mint and lemon. We all got in on this business pretty quick. It was hands down, honestly refreshing. This was just the rest we needed, in this artsy little cafe, to continue on. On the way out the door, I grabbed an ice coffee to go. The rich flavor lingered with every sip and I was glad we had braved the packed tables to find ourselves a spot here. Once again, I find myself happy to consider where I ended up when I was forced to move beyond where I had planned (there is something in there about the best laid plans...).
