Tea (çay) is the heartbeat of Azerbaijani social life. This experience begins at a traditional çayxana (tea house) in the Old City where you learn the ritual of brewing Azerbaijani black tea in the distinctive pear-shaped armudu glass, placing sugar cubes between the teeth rather than in the cup, and the etiquette of topping up a guest's glass before it empties. You'll taste several varieties of black tea including the famous Lankaran tea from Azerbaijan's subtropical south, paired with traditional accompaniments: fig and cherry jam, homemade halva, and fresh pastries.