John-Paul Lee and Sonny Caberwal are 20-somethings who have set out to make tea hip. They even hired a D.J. for their new little shop, Tavalon Tea Bar, at 22 East 14th Street, and have a tea sommelier, Chris Cason, to help customers. Along one wall of the sleekly designed sliver of a store is an array of about 30 teas packed in tins (all $8, with 1 to 2.5 ounces), and tea-brewing equipment. Want to sniff first? Tea samples come in test tubes. At the rear is a counter for ordering hot and cold drinks ($2.75 to $4). Pastries from 'wichcraft, Amai Tea & Bake House and Balthazar Bakery include a tender green-tea cupcake ($3): (646) 290-6921. Teas can be ordered at tavalon.com beginning next month.

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