Minnesota may be the land of 10,000 lakes, but there is yet another side to our state to explore. This side is cozy and quaint and involves a good book and a cup of tea. If that tickles your fancy, your tea is even served in delicate fine china, just like grandma used to have. Wander through the shelves of Avant Garden Books and stop for tea at the Mad Hatter Tea House in Anoka.

Avant Garden was established in 1995 as a coffee bar. Today, the shop also has quite a growing collection of books for you to peruse at your leisure.
Avant Garden Books/Facebook
And true to avant-garde(n), there is always something new to discover here. If you need someone to jazz up your glass door, the owner can refer you to just the guy to do it.
Come inside and wander through the shelves, or order books online from the impressive cyber selection.
Avant Garden Books/Facebook
Check out the selection of banned books and new arrivals, too.
While at Avant Garden Books, try one of the lotus energy drinks, like the Lemon Drop.
Avant Garden Books/Facebook
The Lemon Drop is made with lemon, vanilla, cream, and crushed candy. Or request a coffee drink, such as a pumpkin spice latte. One of OnlyInYourState's editors swears that the vanilla chai is the best she's ever tasted. Small bites are available onsite from Herban Wolf Deli.

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Don’t miss the delightful outdoor patio out back, weather permitting. This shaded nook is where nature and reading dwell together in perfect harmony.
Avant Garden Books/Facebook
After you wander through the shelves of Avant Garden Books, maybe you fancy a spot of tea in an elegant and comfortable, setting. The Mad Hatter Restaurant & Tea House offers just that.
The Mad Hatter Restaurant & Tea House/Facebook
Speaking of books, it reminds us of one of the most beloved childhood favorites of all time, Alice in Wonderland, and that famous tea party.
The Mad Hatter originally opened in the old Anoka Post Office and in 2014, moved to the Woodbury House on the Rum River. The Woodbury House, built in 1857, is the 2nd oldest house in the county.
The Mad Hatter Restaurant & Tea House/Facebook
Would you care for some sweet eats to go with your fill of tea? Spend holidays, like Mother’s Day, here, or make an ordinary afternoon extraordinary.
The Mad Hatter Restaurant & Tea House/Facebook

Who could resist finding a good read paired with the aroma of tea wafting in the air? For hours and other pertinent information, visit the Avant Garden Books website or Facebook page and the Mad Hatter Restaurant & Tea House website or Facebook page. You can even order tea and books online if you so desire! Reservations are required for tea service at the Mad Hatter and strongly recommended for brunch.

Have you been to Avant Garden Books or the Mad Hatter Tea House in Anoka? We have more articles about Anoka: a bar disguised as a hardware store and a home goods store in a mansion full of antiques, collectibles, and things you didn’t know you needed.

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Featured Addresses
Avant Garden Books, 215 E Main St, Anoka, MN 55303, USA
The Mad Hatter Restaurant & Tea House, 1632 Ferry St, Anoka, MN 55303, USA