In the DC area, I've recently found two tea stores of note -- one good, one bad.
The Spice & Tea Exchange:They have several locations in this area (at least one in Georgetown and one in Alexandria) and several others across the country (
link). The quality of much of the tea they have is great -- my favorites are the ones infused with chocolate and the genmaicha that they have (naturally, like any other place, there're a few blends that aren't good so at least sniff before you buy). The prices are a bit on the high side, but generally not as bad as Teavana.
Capital Teas:This place is crap. I don't understand how they stay in business and operate like 6-7 locations. It's overpriced, their blends smell like someone went way overboard with every spice on the rack, and everything else is simply the same as you could get elsewhere for a lower price. I think you'd be better off brewing potpourri.
So yeah, check out Spice & Tea Exchange if you get a chance. Let me know if you have the same thoughts. KF