The first meal out we had in Brooklyn this spring was at Mimi’s Hummus, which I (and NY Mag) highly recommend for vegetarians and anyone else who loves delicious Israeli food.

When our excellent waitress asked if we’d like some Mint Sage Tea with our meal, I took her up on the offer, though I’d never had it before. It was absolutely delightful. I asked for a refill and, when that had dulled the taste, a second fresh cup.

I’ve been cutting back on caffeine, since it’s terrible for your body and brain in a dozen ways. It hadn’t occurred to me that simple herbs and hot water would be a good alternative to boring decaf chai.

Ever since, I’ve been making mint and sage teas at home. It’s cheap and easy, and there are lots of other yummy herb combos to try, like Thyme Apple Ginger, covered in a recent Real Simple article.