Tea is integral to Taiwanese culture. The art of tea is a lifelong journey, with the tea ceremony being a meditative, calming practice that strengthens friendships, respects traditional values and fosters cultural etiquette.
The ritual of preparing and drinking tea centres on appreciating the spirit of the ceremony, and of the tea itself. Participation engages the senses and focuses the mind, allowing time to discern the distinctive appearance, aroma, and flavour of the leaves.
The selection offered at Radiance Oolongtea House includes revered varieties from Taiwan’s Alishan mountain range and Li Shan (Pear Mountain). The tea experience includes the ceremonial art of preparation and serving, the tea being steeped in beautifully crafted, unglazed clay teapots. As with wine, each tea varietal reflects its terroir – the combination of factors producing its singular characteristics. A semi-fermentation process removes tannin, releasing the tea’s delicate fragrance and flavours while retaining nutrients and natural healing qualities.
Radiance Oolongtea House, recently opened by Linda and Dexter, fulfills a long-held dream. Their food stall at Mullum’s weekly farmers’ market has delighted locals and visitors, young and old, for the past 12 years. The couple left Taipei 17 years ago in search of a new lifestyle in a small, quiet town where they could raise their two sons in a friendly community. They’ve been here ever since. With them came the dream to share their passion for Taiwanese High Mountain Oolong tea and traditional Taiwanese fine food.
The menu features the market stand-out favourite – dumplings, whose fillings and plant-sourced, pastel-hued skins are lovingly prepared from fresh, local, top-quality and mostly organic ingredients. Other equally delectable options are Badzangs (stuffed sticky rice cones steamed in bamboo leaves) and Niu rou mian (beef noodles), all hand-made from scratch. Delicious vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options are included.
Radiance Oolongtea House literally radiates light, energy, peacefulness and love. Come and relax in this homely, tranquil oasis, enjoy Linda and Dexter’s cuisine, and savour some of the world’s best tea.
‘Drinking tea is something in itself, to be done for its own sake and not to fulfil an ulterior purpose, for only in this way can the drinker come to “taste sunlight, wind, and clouds”.’
– John Blofeld, The Chinese Art of Tea
The Radiance Oolongtea House is at 45 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby, open Monday to Friday 12:00-5:30pm and Saturdays 12:00-4:00pm. Phone (02) 5643 9070 or check out Insta @radiance_kitchen.
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