A FRENCH TEA HOUSE OPEN TO THE WORLD

Palais des Thés is a French tea house that was founded in 1986 by François-Xavier Delmas.

At that time, the world of tea was dominated by family tea houses that had already been established for many years. Newcomer François-Xavier decided to take on the tea world using his own means.

For him, understanding tea meant going to search for it directly in tea producing countries, alongside those who produce tea on a daily basis. Thanks to these enriching encounters, along with his travels, one thing was for certain: this new Tea House would be a place of discovery and learning, where each person could learn to love tea at their own pace.

A certainty that has guided our actions from the very beginning.

«An exceptional tea is born on fertile ground, it grows in the hands of passionate tea producers, it reveals itself thanks to responsible business practices and it is enjoyed by tea amateurs who are conscious of truly good things.»

François-Xavier Delmas

Tea Researcher and
founder of Palais des Thés

Our History

Our tea house continues to grow in order to allow everyone to discover tea.

1986
1998
1999
2007
2010
2016
2020
2022

1986
Palais des Thés was founded by a group of 40 friends, including François-Xavier Delmas. The brand’s first store opened the following year.
1998
Thé du Hammam is created. This green tea with hints of dates, orange blossoms, red berries and roses is inspired by traditional Turkish steam baths, an ancient ritual promoting relaxation and a clear mind.
1999
The Tea School was founded in Paris by François-Xavier Delmas and Mathias Minet, where tea drinkers can learn the secrets behind the art of tea preparation and tasting.
2007
The Tea Drinker’s Handbook was published, a comprehensive and insightful guide into the world of tea co-written by François-Xavier Delmas and Mathias Minet.
2010
The U.S. subsidiary of Palais des Thés opens in New York City.
2016
The first Master Tea Sommelier exam takes place at the Tea School in Paris. This diploma acknowledges a high level of expertise in the knowledge of tea and the art of guiding.

Publication of the second work by François-Xavier Delmas and Mahias Minet, “Tea Sommelier: A Step-by-Step Guide” published by Abbeville Press.
2020
Palais des Thés begins working with Karuna-Shechen, an organization that provides humanitarian aid to underprivileged communities in India and Nepal.
2022
The Louvre, one the world’s most famous museum, chose Palais des Thés to create its signature tea. The first Louvre teas are created in 2019 (Courtyard and Garden collection), followed by the Louvre Herbal infusions in 2022 (Egyptian Night and Garden of Venus).