Tran Dung’s tea shop, Di Phat, located at 122 Phu Tho Street, Ward 2, District 11 in Saigon, holds a special place in the hearts of tea enthusiasts. For over 70 years, this hidden gem has preserved Chinese tea traditions, captivating visitors with its nostalgic charm and commitment to authenticity. In this article, we will delve into the captivating world of Di Phat tea shop and explore its enduring legacy.
Preserving Tradition Through Time
Di Phat tea shop stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment to tradition. Despite the passing of decades and changing times, the shop has remained true to its roots, upholding the customs and practices of Chinese tea-making. Through meticulous preservation and dedication to quality, Di Phat continues to enchant tea lovers with its authentic offerings.
A Glimpse into the Shop’s History
Tracing its origins back to the 1950s, Di Phat tea shop has been an integral part of Saigon’s cultural fabric. Tran Dung, the 87-year-old owner, shares that her husband’s family, originally from Teochew, brought their expertise in tea-making to Saigon. Starting as employees in tea factories, they eventually established their own shop, which has thrived for generations.
Nostalgic Ambiance and Decor
Stepping into Di Phat tea shop feels like entering a time capsule. The shop, occupying a modest 30 square meters, exudes a nostalgic ambiance through its Chinese-style decor. Cement tiles grace the floor, while red couplets adorn glass cabinets. The shop proudly showcases a statue of the god of wealth and Guan Yu, revered for bravery, loyalty, and honor. These elements transport visitors to a bygone era, preserving the essence of tradition.
Tran Dung: The Guardian of Tradition
At 87 years old, Tran Dung stands as the guardian of Di Phat tea shop’s traditions. While she no longer spends as much time at the shop, she occasionally assists her son in packaging tea products. Dung fondly recalls the shop’s peak period in the 1970s when it focused on wholesale operations throughout Saigon. Her dedication to preserving the shop’s legacy is evident in her refusal to part with items that hold precious memories for their family.
The Art of Tea-Making
Di Phat tea shop reveres the art of tea-making, evident in its use of wooden furniture, tables, chairs, counters, and cabinets. Many of the tea-related items used for selling remain in their original condition, a testament to their commitment to authenticity. The shop still employs traditional methods of wrapping tea with paper, using triangle and rectangle-shaped wrapping for common and gift packages, respectively. Rare teas like Pu-erh tea receive candy-shaped wrapping.
A Tea Journey Through Generations
Tran Dung’s son, Quach Hue, currently manages the shop, following in his family’s footsteps. Having been involved in the business for nearly 40 years, he learned the art of tea-making from his father. Quach Hue took over the shop after his father’s passing and continues to uphold the family’s tea traditions, sourcing delicious teas from Teochew to offer customers an exceptional tea experience.
Tea Varieties and Prices
Di Phat tea shop primarily offers Chinese tea varieties such as oolong and Pu-erh. Over time, they have expanded their selection to include Bao Loc and Thai Nguyen teas. Regular teas range in price from VND50,000 to VND450,000 ($2.13 to $19.19) per kilogram, while Chinese teas command higher prices, ranging from VND2 million to VND5 million ($85.31 to $213.26) per kilogram. The shop’s most prized tea, Phuong Hoang Don Tung, imported from Teochew, is the pinnacle of quality.
Tea Packaging and Services
Di Phat tea shop offers tea packaging services, particularly for wedding ceremonies following Chinese customs. A dedicated corner showcases wedding confectionery items, including Teochew’s pia cakes, sesame candy, and mooncakes. The shop’s commitment to personalized service and attention to detail ensures that customers receive a unique and memorable tea experience.
A Place to Explore and Learn
Beyond being a trading venue, Di Phat tea shop provides an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the world of traditional Chinese tea. Quach Hue warmly welcomes guests, inviting them to engage in conversations and enjoy tea sessions. The shop serves as a cultural hub, allowing individuals to gain insights into the art of tea-making and the rich traditions associated with it.
Conclusion
The enduring legacy of Di Phat tea shop in Saigon showcases the timeless allure of Chinese tea traditions. For over 70 years, this hidden gem has preserved the art of tea-making, captivating visitors with its nostalgic charm. Tran Dung and her family’s unwavering commitment to authenticity have made Di Phat a beloved destination for tea enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of Chinese tea culture.
FAQs
1. Can I purchase items from Di Phat tea shop, such as scales or teapots?
While many people express interest in buying various items from the shop, Tran Dung refuses to sell them due to their sentimental value to her family.
2. What are the tea varieties available at Di Phat tea shop?
Di Phat primarily offers Chinese tea varieties, including oolong, Pu-erh, Bao Loc, and Thai Nguyen teas.
3. Are there special tea packaging services offered by the shop?
Yes, Di Phat tea shop provides tea packaging services, particularly for wedding ceremonies, according to Chinese customs.
4. Can visitors engage in tea sessions at Di Phat tea shop?
Absolutely! Quach Hue, the shop’s manager, welcomes visitors to enjoy tea sessions and engage in conversations about tea and tradition.
5. How often does the shop process tea, and is it still done using traditional methods?
The shop processes tea once a month, with jasmine tea being a highlight. While modern machines are used for some processes, traditional methods, such as drying tea using charcoal stoves, are still preserved for their unique qualities.
In conclusion, Di Phat tea shop stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Chinese tea traditions in Saigon. With its rich history, nostalgic ambiance, andauthentic offerings, this hidden gem has captivated visitors for over 70 years. Tran Dung, the 87-year-old owner, and her family have dedicated themselves to preserving the art of tea-making, ensuring that the shop remains a beacon of tradition. From the moment you step into Di Phat tea shop, you are transported to a bygone era, surrounded by the timeless charm of Chinese-style decor and the aroma of exquisite teas.
Tran Dung’s son, Quach Hue, now manages the shop, carrying on the family’s tea-making traditions. With his expertise and commitment to quality, he continues to source the finest teas from Teochew, offering customers an unparalleled tea experience. Di Phat tea shop boasts a wide selection of teas, ranging from oolong and Pu-erh to Bao Loc and Thai Nguyen varieties. Each tea carries with it a unique flavor profile and a story that spans generations.
The shop’s dedication to authenticity is evident not only in the teas it offers but also in its tea packaging services. Following Chinese customs, Di Phat tea shop provides beautifully wrapped teas for wedding ceremonies, ensuring that every detail reflects the rich cultural heritage associated with tea.
Visiting Di Phat tea shop is not just a shopping experience; it’s an opportunity to explore and learn about the art of tea-making. Quach Hue warmly welcomes visitors, inviting them to engage in conversations, enjoy tea sessions, and gain insights into the intricacies of tea preparation. The shop serves as a cultural hub, fostering an appreciation for tradition and allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of Chinese tea.
As you leave Di Phat tea shop, you carry with you not just a bag of exquisite tea but also a deeper understanding of the enduring legacy of Chinese tea culture. Tran Dung, Quach Hue, and their family have preserved a precious tradition, and their commitment to authenticity ensures that the shop will continue to enchant tea enthusiasts for years to come.
FAQs
1. Can I purchase items from Di Phat tea shop, such as scales or teapots?
While many people express interest in buying various items from the shop, Tran Dung refuses to sell them due to their sentimental value to her family.
2. What are the tea varieties available at Di Phat tea shop?
Di Phat primarily offers Chinese tea varieties, including oolong, Pu-erh, Bao Loc, and Thai Nguyen teas.
3. Are there special tea packaging services offered by the shop?
Yes, Di Phat tea shop provides tea packaging services, particularly for wedding ceremonies, according to Chinese customs.
4. Can visitors engage in tea sessions at Di Phat tea shop?
Absolutely! Quach Hue, the shop’s manager, welcomes visitors to enjoy tea sessions and engage in conversations about tea and tradition.
5. How often does the shop process tea, and is it still done using traditional methods?
The shop processes tea once a month, with jasmine tea being a highlight. While modern machines are used for some processes, traditional methods, such as drying tea using charcoal stoves, are still preserved for their unique qualities.
In conclusion, Di Phat tea shop stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Chinese tea traditions in Saigon. With its rich history, nostalgic ambiance, and authentic offerings, this hidden gem has captivated visitors for over 70 years. Tran Dung, the 87-year-old owner, and her family have dedicated themselves to preserving the art of tea-making, ensuring that the shop remains a beacon of tradition. From the moment you step into Di Phat tea shop, you are transported to a bygone era, surrounded by the timeless charm of Chinese-style decor and the aroma of exquisite teas.
Tran Dung’s son, Quach Hue, now manages the shop, carrying on the family’s tea-making traditions. With his expertise and commitment to quality, he continues to source the finest teas from Teochew, offering customers an unparalleled tea experience. Di Phat tea shop boasts a wide selection of teas, ranging from oolong and Pu-erh to Bao Loc and Thai Nguyen varieties. Each tea carries with it a unique flavor profile and a story that spans generations.
The shop’s dedication to authenticity is evident not only in the teas it offers but also in its tea packaging services. Following Chinese customs, Di Phat tea shop provides beautifully wrapped teas for wedding ceremonies, ensuring that every detail reflects the rich cultural heritage associated with tea.
Visiting Di Phat tea shop is not just a shopping experience; it’s an opportunity to explore and learn about the art of tea-making. Quach Hue warmly welcomes visitors, inviting them to engage in conversations, enjoy tea sessions, and gain insights into the intricacies of tea preparation. The shop serves as a cultural hub, fostering an appreciation for tradition and allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of Chinese tea.
As you leave Di Phat tea shop, you carry with you not just a bag of exquisite tea but also a deeper understanding of the enduring legacy of Chinese tea culture. Tran Dung, Quach Hue, and their family have preserved a precious tradition, and their commitment to authenticity ensures that the shop will continue to enchant tea enthusiasts for years to come.
