My first experience of Yerba Mate with my dear friend was sentimental and pleasant!
Drinking mate "is a symbol of hospitality. As the mate gourd is passed around, a sense of connection emerges." I just love the idea how it is shared with friends and like a little ritual and has certain type of symbolism.
Aside from that Mate ("the drink of God" ) does have a lot of health benefits and loads with Antioxidants.
The taste remind me of the turtle herbal jello I usually eat in Chinese dessert place. Bitter but with a sweet undertone.. even without sweetener. However, mate definitely tastes a lot grassier... a taste that have to get use of.
The barista here was super nice, showing us how to perform the "Mate Gourd Ceremony". The services was a little slow though, since she was the only one working there!
I will definitely be back to El Almacen Yerba Mate Cafe to chill out with my friends!!