La Oriental was a teteria at the end of the road going up the hill away from calle Reyes Catolicos. It was an authentic taste of Granada in the twelfth century. It is important to remember the ever-strong presence of Arab culture in Granada as it was the last Muslim stronghold in Spain. I think this particular teteria was a perfect window to past Granada in this regard. It was a small place with soft Arabic music playing in the background with the sent of fresh tea leaves ever present. A young waiter by the name of Ahmed greeted us and was happy to accompany us on our journey back to the old Arab Granada. The menu included dozens of different types of teas from all over the middle east and Persia as well as an assortment of crepes. Of course in any Arabic establishment the shi-shu is mandatory and this place was no exception. We sampled the Pakistani, Moroccan, and Turkish teas as well as the chocolate crepes and chocolate crepes with cream. The crepes were light and delicious and each order of tea came with an individual tea pot with more than ample quantity. The shi-shu was delicious and smooth although the flavor variety was a little lacking. Although this was not the standard Granada experience, it was quite delicious and a great look at a vital part of Granadan society.
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