What gives me joy

I was gonna journal about this… But, I thought it would be fun to include yall! (ooh, Oly about to get personal!) And it’s tea-related, so why not!?

I don’t remember if + how much I’ve written about this on here (and I don’t feel like going back and looking). And I really don’t like giving her anymore attention than she’s already taken that wasn’t deservedly hers…but I have to talk about her for a moment. When I was a little girl, my bio mom had many collections. Pencils, magnets, matchbooks, antique teacups + saucers… But she never included my bio sister or me. When I went through Trauma Recovery, I randomly stumbled on Rae Dunn. I became interested in what her items were about, and during the Pandemic (when places were starting to open up) I asked my husband to take me to a Marshalls. I bought my first Rae Dunn mug! A cream colored cup that looked freshly sculpted, with the word SURVIVOR on it in bold black uppercase letters. I found myself drawn to these things and didn’t understand why. I soon realized this was going to be part of my Inner Child Work. Starting a collection of my own…something I was never allowed to be a part of when I was younger. Now let me stop for a moment and express: I am (well, I guess was) a self-certified Minimalist! I had a capsule wardrobe and only necessary items with meaning + intention in my home. So a collection was really out of my wheelhouse and norm. But I leaned into it, I embraced it, I surrendered to it. And I loved it!! Soon that one mug turned into 80+ with acrylic shelves stacked 6-high that lined the perimeter of our kitchen!!

I only have 5 left now, one for each family member. But the collection bug still lives in me, not that I gave in to it as much anymore tho. Untilll, I went to Disney. (closing one eye emoji) (read that fun story here) So being “New Disney”, I’ve started a pin collection. It’s small and modest, and limited mostly to tea ones. (read about that here!) After completing the Disney Princess Tea Party table + chairs blind box set, I cooled off for a minute. I still looked of course! But didn’t just buy any old ones. I think restricting myself to just “tea-esque” pins, keeps my collection humble. Untilll, March 5th haha. When I stumbled on a new collection being released in May! Disney Princess Teacups, are you kidding me!!?? I impatiently waited and admired them on the website from time to time. I had their release date marked in my calendar (I know, I’m sounding nerdier + dorkier by the second but I don’t care!) and- wait a minute. They were released on the website a whole nine days early!! I placed an order right away. Just 2. (there’s 6 in the full collection) I like to go into the stores and pick them for myself. But at least, this order will get me started.

I got a Mulan one!

So cute!

Then another Mulan one. (dang)

But it’s okay, cuz I did my second ever trade. And what are the chances there would be a tea one!!? Got this super cool 2017 Hidden Mickey Teapot Pin!

The release date came, and I anxiously awaited for when they would arrive to stores. Our local one hadn’t gotten any in yet. But how cute was my husband who had called around stores close to us and found some half an hour away! He insisted on taking me and we made a fun trip of it with our daughter. Thankfully I had some rewards, so I picked my specific 3 and excitedly purchased! He wanted to get me some also, and picked up another 3. (and trust, he had coupons too!)

So the plan was to open them close by, because there was an Ariel Teacup on their Trade Board. And if by chance I didn’t get the Ariel one, I could maybe trade a repeat…

And here’s where the ‘dorky’ goes overboard. Ready?

I like to FILM me opening them and recording my organic reaction!! (three laughing crying emojis) NO, I don’t post em anywhere. And NO, I don’t share em with anyone. Haha. It’s just for me!

So we found a bench and got to opening (and filming hehe).

My first one: Tiana. The one I really wanted. Obviously, because it olive!

Before opening my second, I say “Can you imagine we get them all right now?”

Aurora yay! (the second one I really wanted) Look at those roses!

I accidentally ripped the wrapper too far down on my third and already saw which one it was before filming. But I was THRILLED, cuz I could see that it was already different!

NO WAY!? Howww did I pull three DIFFERENT ones!!?!

Okay, now I was gonna open the Huz’s three… He filmed those hehe.

I opened- and Jasmine!! Me: “How did we all get like 4 different ones??!” I am in disbelief by this point. Of the 6 we purchased together, the first 4 that I have opened have been four different pins to this set!? (brain explosion emoji) With the Mulan one at home, I’m already 5 out of 6 complete AND I still have TWO more blind boxes to open! I just needed Ariel…

The 5th box was a repeat. But of my favorite one and I knew just the person I wanted to gift it to.

Okay, last box.

Please be Ariel. Please be Ariel.

What do you guys think I got…?

It was Ariel.

(closing mouth monkey emoji) The giggle that came out of my mouth was definitely Little Oly hehe!

I could not believe my life. HOW did I just open the entire remaining set to complete this blind box collection of 6 Disney Princess Teacups…IN ONE SITTING!!?!!!?!

Pure joy.

When I stop in for tea and have conversations with Owners, I love when they have asked me what I’ve been up to. (1) They know me well enough/read my website/follow up on my socials to know that I’m retired. And (2) they are interested and care enough to ask. I usually reply that I am regulating my nervous system and living in quiet. I’m sure you guys are over me saying that on here too, verbatim too huh haha. But this, THIS is part of what I’ve been up to! Allowing myself simple pleasures like collecting Disney pins and letting my inner child live.

Spot #63 :: The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

Our 63rd Spot:

The Ritz-Carlton

1 Miramontes Point Road Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

www.ritzcarlton.com

I’m letting you know right now, I’m not holding anything back for this review.

Since we visited the San Francisco Ritz-Carlton location in June 2015, I’ve been interested in seeing the Half Moon Bay one. My family + I have had HMB as our second home for over 20 years. We were supposed to get married on Montara State Beach, we have been taking our 19-year-old son (then later our daughter after she was born) to Beach Days there every last Saturday of the month as our family tradition since he was 7-months old, we go to the boats to get fresh crab every season, we have celebrated many an anniversary at La Costanera, we always have to stop by Half Moon Bay Brewing for a pour and their truffle fries, and for sure get a sandwich at Gherkin’s. So when I say “long awaited”, you now understand. Same with the Cutie family who accompanied us today, who have their own special moments with HMB and specifically the Ritz.

I’ve been doing this for a long time, right guys? I have the process down, and know what it takes to arrange and solidify plans to visit a Spot. While retired, I mentioned in my announcement post that there are still places I want to try and may write about. And in my last post, how I couldn’t wait to share what we’re doing this month. (I can’t emphasize any more how much we were all looking forward to this) So probably off + on since June 2015 and then more recently within the last year or so, I became interested in having tea at the HMB Ritz. I learned they no longer offered afternoon tea those years ago, BUT that they brought it back (was it just last year…?) for just a few special occasions on the calendar. I’ve said many times on here before that I prefer to have a general tea service as opposed to a special event/holiday one (1) because I don’t celebrate them and (2) because I want to see what their standard is. But HMB Ritz only offered for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and I think it was Fourth of July (at least for last year and from what I can remember, I’m not looking it up sorry yall)…so those were the only choices I had if I wanted to try Tea there. May was the soonest. So I started some months ago…

First I called in asking if they were going to offer afternoon tea again this year, specifically for Mother’s Day. I was told a hard no. Told the Cuties, and moved on. I was on OpenTable for something else on a day in March and randomly decided to look up The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, when whaddya know lo and behold there it was: an Experience being offered for MOTHER’S DAY AFTERNOON TEA. Yall know I looove me a receipt. Insert Exhibit A here:

I made the reservation right then and there to secure our spot. And here’s Receipt 2, notice where it says “Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea”:

The next day I realized that since the Cuties are Caretakers, I should probably book an earlier time (so they can get home to their family member) and changed our CURRENT AND EXISTING reservation FOR MOTHER’S DAY TEA to 1:45 PM. Receipt 3:

On April 17, I noticed from my finsta a post from @ritzcarltonhmb and @navio_hmb that they are offering a Mother’s Day “Brunch”. Receipt 4:

Because I was only interested in the Tea (as you read above), I called in to make sure we were in fact scheduled for “Afternoon Tea” and not the brunch. At first, the first person I spoke with couldn’t provide an answer so they took down my info and had someone call me back. You can see those series of calls here, Receipt 5:

Over the course of this span before our reservation, I had spoken with TWO live human beings from The Ritz-Carlton hotel, BOTH of which had CONFIRMED that we had reservations for AFTERNOON TEA not Brunch at The Conservatory on Sunday, May 10, 2026 at 1:45 PM.

We get there, and there’s a problem with my reservation.

Apparently, their Afternoon Tea Service is being served at 3:00 PM. I ask the Host “So the TWO people I spoke with that CONFIRMED my reservation were BOTH wrong?” (and at no point did either one mention nothing about no 3 o’clock) He says yes, with a tinge of an attitude might I add. He gets someone else to talk to me who says the same exact thing but this time adds that they’ll see what they could do about seating us early. Finally, the head honcho (I forget what his title was) comes out to explain once again that there was a mixup, afternoon tea is served at 3:00 PM, the tea sandwiches take 2 hours to make, and they can’t seat us right now. Then asks if he can see my reservation…as if I was lying about OpenTable ugh my goodness. As I’m scrolling through 764 photos of my dog and nephew, I ask him “Is the screenshot gonna change that we could be seated now?” Like, I didn’t understand why all this fuss if at the end of all of it yall still messed up, yall still ain’t ready, and yall still can’t seat us?? I show him my email confirmation and he takes my phone.

By this point, my calm spirit is starting to change. We drove an hour and a half, and all I’ve had to eat was 3/4 a banana. Yall keep talkin bout dem sandwiches that take 2-hours to make and all I could think of was Jan’s osso buco. Three hours from NOW, or three hours from earlier? (Office reference) Cuz it’s bordering 2PM now so that means Chef back there started an hour ago then right? He finally comes back and says they take full responsibility, it was their mistake, and once again reiterates that they can’t seat us until 3PM. But this time he explains that: when they do finally seat us, they will only have enough sandwiches for 3 people. (we are a party of 5) That there will be enough scones and sweets for our party, but not enough tea sandwiches. He goes on further to throw another party under the bus and tells me (who has no business nor desire to know any of this) that someone has yet to confirm their arrival, so possibly we can have their seating and sandwiches. YALL- I couldn’t make this stuff up if I tried. Don’t tell me that!! Don’t tell me you don’t have anything to serve me! You. Are. A. Business. And a Restaurant! Cut up dem sandwiches smaller to make something for 5 people! Improvise and add something else to spruce up your menu! Don’t come out here and tell me YOUR PROBLEMS!! Do what you gotta do to FIX IT. Ooh I was hot…but still collected. He offered for us to sit at the Bar while we wait with a complimentary round of champagne.

After some bubbles and oysters, we are taken to our table. (you guys, I’m already so done writing) We pick our teas and shortly after the scones and sweets are brought out. Still no sandwiches. But our server gives us instructions to start with the tea sandwiches, then the scone, then the desserts…”otherwise you’ll mess us your whole palate,” he says. Um, don’t tell me what to do. Also, we don’t even have the freakin 2-hour sandwiches yet!! (steam coming out nose emoji)

I didn’t care and broke the rules, I started with my scone cuz that’s how I like to have my tea. My palate HONGRY, so we startin wid da scone mmkay.

I will say tho- those scones were SLAMMIN. At least that. I love me a crispy edge.

Oh, here come the 2-hour sandwiches…

He sets it down on the table and says “Here are your tea sandwiches…gluten-free.” You’ve got to be kidding me.

[taking a deep breath] If you’re. Gonna tell me. That your Chef. Is slaving away. For your beautifully and meticulously made afternoon tea sandwiches. For. TWO. FREAKIN. HOURS. [another breath] They had better look like Chef Joseph L. Paire III’s genius creations like the Claremont’s!!! What are these?? And whyyy are they gluten-free?! I never uttered those words since making the reservation in March…why are they here? Who told you we wanted gluten-free? Why did you serve those to us? [breathe Olyve breathe] They looked + tasted like they been sitting out for 2 whole hours. It was cold (like they had been refrigerated) and the bread was stale. Do you remember Monica’s Mockolate? (Friends reference) That bread like fizzed or melted in your mouth, and it was not good. We didn’t even get the 5 tea sandwiches they offered. Where’s our roast beef one huh?! They really did us dirty. Those were atrocious. Sweets were good, but nothing to write home about. Teas were okay too. Then they had the nerve to charge us a “staff fee”. Yall don’t deserve that. I put my card in the bill folder and we went to pick up our car from valet. By the time we got down there, we were told that parking was already taken care of. Cutie Jr. goes “it’s the least they could do” haha.

Would we go back for Tea there? HELL NAW. But we might be up for hanging out with Jason again at the bar! He was lovely! Listen- this fiasco was Ridiculous. And only for a mediocre tea service. BUT, spending time with family- always the best time everrr. I’m still laughing about when Cutie’s Mr. told us to take it easy on all the scones and sweets cuz he doesn’t get any sandwiches hahaha! I will hang with them for bad Tea anytime. We’ve made our own Tradition anyhow. Even tho we don’t celebrate Mother’s Day, this is the 3rd year in a row the 5 of us have had Tea in May. I’ll take it!

To The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay: Do better.

Tea in April

Over a decade. I wanted to take the Huz here over a decade ago, hehe. (covering mouth smiling emoji) I’ve been to Dartealing Lounge in the City many times. First time was in April of 2015. And then did an official Revisit in February 2024, during Leg 3 of the Tour for “Best Sandwiches”. You could see which one I’m obsessed with here. But sprinkled in between, I’ve taken numerous friends and hosted countless tea parties there. They’re pretty high up on my raTEAng and it’s always the sandwiches I come back for. I’ve been wanting him to try…

We were supposed to go up to Tiburon (if you know why I go there, you’re a real one) for their Spring appearance. I’ve been back for every month they’ve offered since I tried their tea service for the first time over a year ago (they only do it 3-4 times a year, and I NEED every single one haha). But since he still hadn’t been to Dartealing’s, we made a quick switcheroo. It just so happened they were just starting their “Latin Flair” tea service menu and we were happy to try it! Ugh (whiny face emoji), when I tell you these were some of the most inventive flavors and offerings… You have to go. Now. I mean, get on your phone and start typing in their website to make online reservations NOW cuz you only have til June!! Come on!

And of course they still offered a fish sandwich. And of course I still ordered it. And of course I still devoured every. Last. Morsel.

They’re doing new menus every 3 months and we have every intention of coming back to try them all. Also, always a pleasure to catch up and chat with the owner and hear all her creative brilliance. She’s been in the game a while and their longevity is attributed to her authenticity for the art of afternoon tea. An amazing human being with lots to share for her community. You want a TRUE afternoon tea experience with an unmistakable trademark feel + taste that sets them apart- come to Dartealing Lounge.

Nearly 2 years ago, I was supposed to take my dear friend to Lovey’s… But, life happened. So after much loss and many-a doctor’s appointment, here we finally were! Long awaited, much anticipated, and very needed + deserved. Tho we only live an hour or so away, we made believe we were on vacation! I took her to a shop close by and we shared a nice coastal walk, breathing in all that VITAMIN SEA!! It was a gorgeous day in Pacifica, thanks to our Creator.

She’s a Tea Lover and Cup + Saucer Collector, so it was only right to introduce her to the beloved Lovey’s Tea Shoppe! She enjoyed a delicious cuppa of their Royal Blend (a black tea with vanilla and grenadine) and went on a little spree. I was so happy for her! Also nice to see the Lovey’s Team and they always treat me and any guest I take so so well. Thank you G + G!! Until next time… (hopefully not in 2 years!)

We also have a new country to give a *shout out* to… Hello to our Nigeria Readers and thank you for visiting our little neck of the woods on the internet! Thank you again to all our loyal Followers still rockin with us (do people still say that?) on our socials and maintaining our high views here. Love yall lots. Thanks too to those who donate, always.

Can’t wait to tell you what we have going on in May!! Check back!

A Tier + A Candle

We are 5 for 5 over here! Hehe. (covering mouth smiling emoji)

Tho I retired in November, I have still been enjoying leisure Teas with my favorite people. I of course went to Caviar both months it was offered, did the best collab with Muir’s in January to date, was so honored to get to visit Crown & Crumpet before their tea room in Ross closed, and then got to take the Huz to Rosewood today!

The MOMENT I walked into Rosewood Sand Hill last August, I already knew I was coming back. Couldn’t wait to take my husband because I wanted to share it with him! Unbeknownst to me, they would start a new collaboration with Flamingo Estate Teas (in Nov 2025) and we’d get to try an entirely new menu!! I’m not usually a smokey tea type of girl…but I was intrigued. So happy I went out the comfort zone cuz I got to try AND SAVOR their Smokey Rose Tea. Ugh, had a good 5 cups! Their sandwiches and sweets were slammin of course too…exactly why I returned. So happy the Huz got to try and we had the best time.

If you read my Rosewood post, you’ll know all about the candle we were all captivated by. I’ve been wanting this thing for 7 months k! We shared the most gorgeous walk to their spa and it was finally in my hands and waiting to come home with me!! Dood- our kitchen smells like a 5-star hotel lobby now and we can’t get enough. Best purchase in 2026 so far, hehe.

Other than Tea’ing it up with my peeps (ew, who says that), I’ve been living my prayer since 2024. Aside from working my day job and providing a home for my family, I have been living in Quiet like I’ve always wanted. Away from my phone, away from socials, away from overbooked calendars of commitments…and just enjoying my family. Being a wife, a mother, servant of God. And when I need a break from the “norm” I’ve always craved, I have my books. Currently in the middle of Viola Davis’ memoir. My health is unchanged. While parts of my body are deteriorating, I’m doing more physically. (I know, that doesn’t sound like it makes sense huh? But it’s okay, cuz my body hasn’t made sense for years.) Once I was done with the final test + lab + specialist + email result…and they said “there’s nothing more we could do for you” and “you will be in pain for the rest of your life”… I just wanted to live. For however long I get to, I just wanna live. So that’s what I’m doing. (happy smiley face emoji)

Thank you ALWAYS to the hundreds and thousands of you who visit and read my website everyday. My numbers have NEVER been so steadily high. I’m not sure what I can attribute that to!? Haha. But I am most grateful there are still people interested in what I have to say. And as long as there is, I will do my best to give you fun little updates on here! Love to yall.

Last Visit :: Crown & Crumpet Ross (#38)

Last Visit:

Crown & Crumpet

22 Ross Common Ross, CA 94957

crownandcrumpet.com

I had a post all ready in mind, feeling proud to announce that I hadn’t had any afternoon tea rendezvous in February (since yes, I have had Leisure Teas in each past months since I’ve retired hehe), buut- I COULD NOT MISS THIS ONE. Since I’m off all my social media accounts, someone (Thank you boo!) sent me a screenshot of Crown’s announcement post that they were closing!! NO WAY. I had to hop on my IG real quick to see for myself and message their owner. Worked out what I could in my schedule to finagle a visit and in minutes time I booked a table a day before their last, whew.

For those that don’t know, Crown & Crumpet was my first ever Spot on this Tea Tour.

As always, was greeted so warmly by Miss Amy! Caught up a bit about their closure and my retirement… Had the most amazing (as per ushe.) tea service. Their fresh toasted Crumpets, I always have to have first. Delicious Stardust Tea, ugh I love me a clove tea. And (I wanna cry just thinking about it) their SLAMMIN Honey Roasted Ham with English Cheddar & Granny Smith Apple tea sandwich!! It was the perfect afternoon before we had to say ‘goodbye’…for now. You can still see them for pop-ups, events + classes at the Marin Art and Garden Center maringarden.org Please also keep in touch with Crown & Crumpet on their website (link above) and socials @crownandcrumpet *Special Shout-Out* to the sweet couple we met at the table next to us and got to chatting for a bit! We absolutely adored you, D + C!

Until we see you again, Crown & Crumpet! YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MY FIRST!!!

All Crown & Crumpet related posts:

Spot #1 :: Crown & Crumpet Tea Stop Cafe

Spot #38 :: Crown & Crumpet Ross

NEW MENU ALERT! Muir’s Tea Room | Winter in the Italian Alps

New Menu Visit:

Muir’s Tea Room

330 S Main Street Sebastopol, CA 94572

www.muirstearoomandcafe.com

[photo cred (no big-salad’ing here) to the Huz from his iPhone]

You think I could be kept away from Muir’s?? Never!! OF COURSE I was going to be there on the very first day of this brand new theme: Muir’s Tè Invernale Alpino! We got sat at this romantic corner. Table for 2, me + the Huz, during our anni month hehe. (we make 23 years married on the 25th, wowza) And in true Muir’s Tea Room fashion, the music selection was perfect.

We always have to order one of their Prosecco Cocktails, cuz they make em just SO GOOD. Lots of luscious sparkling wine, with a healthy splash of their signature juices mixes.

Red Robin (tart cherry juice with prosecco) – Exactly what I wanted. It was cinnamony and spicy, and still had the flavor of the prosecco which is my jam. I always say: “Any day I have champagne (or sparking wine), is a good day!”

Sebastopol Apple Blossom (apple essence with prosecco) – He said it was crisp + refreshing!

Maple Walnut Green Tea – I had just run out of this at home, so I already knew on the drive over that this is what I was ordering! Haha. Fix, satisfied.

Lime Chiffon Rooibos Tea – We love a citrus chiffon tea ’round here. Mmm, lime rind and creamy tea. Ugh, so good this one.

Val Gardena Antipasta Chopped Insalata – I wanna say that this is probably the ONLY tea room or afternoon tea service where I finish the salad. (if I was at home, I would legit probably lick the plate…haha, shh don’t tell) They tried something a little different with their salad this time, and they did good! I can’t stress enoughh just how much I loved those little cubes of “cheese”. So fun and so so creamy! I coulda had 35 of them joints on mine.

Traditional Italian Amarena Cherry & Almond Scone – Something different with the scone today too. The tart cherries and their lemon curd paired wonderfully together.

Gran Dolomiti Cucumber with Chives Tea Sandwich – Me after I took my first bite: “it’s Muir’s.”

Santa Maddalena Pesto, Fagiloi Bianchi & vine ripe tomato Finger Sandwich – Okay, that tasted like Nonna just made it for your afterschool snack! The basil came through nicely and those were the juiciest tomatoes of all the tomatoes.

Bellagio Hearts of Palm & Artichoke Heart Vol Au Vent – My eyes rolled back in my head a little. Delicate crispy pastry you can bite through every delicious induvial layer. The green onions!! And I could not believe that was plant-based. This was both our favorite. Saved my last bite for my last bite of this service.

La Vetta Fungo Tarta with Castagne (mushroom & chestnut tart) – I wanna cry! So savory. I love chestnut anything.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo Spinach and Garlic Puff Pastry – That pastry melts in your mouth. And there was just so much of it!

Cortina d’Ampezzo Fireside Pepper & “Sausage” Tartine – Me (whining): “What is that?!” Him: “Love.” I was so excited to have this one cuz it resembled the one from their Alice Tea Service, my favorite!! Ate this one slowly cuz I savored every moment!

Mont Blanc Biscotto al Cioccolato e Nocciole (chocolate hazelnut cookie) – The cookie part!! The texture with the sugar crystals!! (whiny emoji face) I loved this.

Trentino Tiramisu Cupcake – It’s like sticky and I like it. The frosting is super light.

So they tried something new with this tea service and I am not mad at it one bit. Did you count? Go ahead, scroll down, I’ll wait… SIX Savories and two sweets!! You guys already know how I feel about this one. I’ve commented on many a service that has like 15 different sugary items, and then only 2 salty ones. I don’t like that!! (steamy nostrils emoji) I love love loved that Muir’s did more savories than sweets. And not just that, but not too many sweets either. The 2 they served were such good quality, it was just enough. And they always have a bounty of fresh fruits on their tiers too (the Huz always loves those).

Um, so… At dinner tonight, I was LEGIT trying to see if I can finagle coming back before this theme is over!!! HAHAHA! They always do a good job and I don’t say this at every theme I have of theirs… But forreal- this was my favorite one. Period!! My Italian Grandfather would be proud. They are serving it through February (planned this whole thing before they even knew the Olympics were gonna be in Cortina this year!) so if at all possible = GO!! If you need a date, I’m available. Hahah.

A TREMENDOUS THANK YOU to all our loyal Readers!! We had a new country visiting…hello + welcome to the people of Lithuania! And one random Sunday, our views skyrocketed to 123X (yes, that says ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-THREE TIMES!!) the views from the day before!!?! The most views in one day for parTEA with me history!! I don’t know who shared our website or where and who went viral hehe- but THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! Honestly, our website views have been the most consistently high they’ve ever been!? And we’re not even on social media whaaat!!?! Thank you thank you thank you. (three heart emojis) (three kissy face emojis)

All Muir’s Tea Room related posts:

Spot #28 :: Muir’s Tea Room

Spot Revisit :: Muir’s Tea Room (#28) – Best Overall

NEW MENU ALERT! Muir’s Tea Room | Alice in Wonderland

NEW MENU ALERT! Muir’s Tea Room | Holoholo Tiki Tea

NEW MENU ALERT! Muir’s Tea Room | Winter Woodland Wonderland

NEW MENU ALERT! Muir’s Tea Room | Mystical Mermaids of the World

Peace + Calm

“I just want to live it in peace, calm, and ease.” (taken from my Retirement story post)

It’s been roughly 2 months since I retired. And, you guessed it, it has NOT been peaceful or calming…OR easy, by any means! That above shot was taken from my Retirement Celebration Day. The Huz took the family on a coastal drive (one of our favorite things to do), stopped at that cool lighthouse (cool nature-framed shot by moi but of course!), then went to our favorite brewery. Yes, I even had a few pours! So nice.

So what I didn’t anticipate tho was, the Monday following my Retirement post- having 3 doctor’s appointments on that day. Actually in the month of November, to be more precise, I had a total of FOURTEEN! Those that are asking if I took time off to better care for my health needs…uh, NO!! That was not the plan! What I thought would be a standard check-in with my PCP escalated very quickly. She sent me to a couple Specialists, I was having in-home PT coming every week, and a 12-week treatment program was started. Whew! It was A LOT, to say the least. December was fewer, but still 8 doctor’s appointments in one month is a lot for anyone. I just had my last big one this week, then a few MRI’s in Jan. (sigh)

To pass the time and keep sane between appointments, I collected Disney pins!! Okay so, when we went to Disney earlier this year…I did not know that pin collecting was a thing?! I bought ONE cuz it was cute. But frankly, I didn’t know where I was gonna put it or what to do with it. Another time, a friend that went surprised me with one that made her think of me. Now I had 2! Maybe a month or so before, I stumbled on what are called “blind box pins”. Found out these particular ones were going to be released early November. So I waited, impatiently. The GLEE that came from me opening these tiny boxes of surprise pins was totally unexpected. Like I was giddy yall! My inner child had. A. Blast!! I mean, they were little tea party tables with tiers on them and matching chairs of different princesses!!?! Like, how could I NOT collect these?? It’s like they were made SPECIFICALLY FOR Olyve Rose of parTEA with me!! Hellooo! Thankfully, I only got 3 doubles…which were perfect to gift to my daughter, Cutie Jr. and Cutie Sr.!

Another fun unforeseen thing that happened/is happening… This website has been CONSISTENTLY bringing in the numbers!!?? (three shocked face emojis) This is WITHOUT a social media presence yall!! (another shocked face emoji) Dare I say sometimes my numbers have even been better than when I was regularly posting on socials!? Hahahah! I AM SO GRATEFUL. When I decided to retire and get off socials, I wondered just how much my views would drop. But (as I’ve said many times before), I have thee best + most loyal Readers on the planet. *Shout Out* to those reading from Australia, France, and Singapore who have been blowin us up!! I see yall. And a new location viewing from Laos, welcome! Thank you for CONTINUING to hang out with us here. Yall mean so much to me.

Mason Jars

STORY TIME: I was trying to think of where to start this, and realized it stems as far back as our wedding day in January 2003. The plan was to be wed surrounded by ocean views at my dream location: The Lighthouse Hotel in Pacifica. The intimate 25-people ceremony we initially wanted was vetoed by our grandiose narc bio moms, so we needed more space to accommodate their egos. Plan B – Have a beach wedding on our favorite beach in HMB. Since January is winter and beaches are outdoor, that too was out of the question. We just wanted to be married… We gave in and allowed our mothers to have the show they both needed, 300+ people later, nowhere near a beach.

We wanted to do a big 10 Year. But the way events in our life worked, it was going to have to be a big 11th hehe. Again, my dream of that Lighthouse Hotel filled my headspace. It was 2012 and I got to work with brainstorming and planning. I started a Pinterest Board. “Farmhouse decor” wasn’t yet so big at the time, so I wasn’t really able to find my vision on the internet. I just pictured lots of white linen, burlap table runners, and lots + lots of mason jars!! It was going to be clean + minimal, with a touch of farmhouse, shabby chic, and beachy elements. I love me a good mismatchy moment. So I wasn’t gonna just BUY uniform mason jars at the store. I was going to drink, eat, and use all the things that came in different heights and thicknesses of mason jars, so that I could have them as decor for my party! And I had 2 years to do this!! (of course my family helped, and we thrifted some too)

When you’re excited about something, you tell people right!? I shared with a few close friends about my party plans, because I was thrilled to be having the wedding event that I(we) originally wanted. “Lots of white linen…burlap…mason jars…”

A friend of mine was throwing a party for her best friend and her husband. Their 10-year anniversary in December, so a month before ours. In a conversation with some friends, someone asked her what she had planned. “A LOT OF WHITE LINEN…BURLAP DECORATIONS…AND MASON JARS…YOU KNOW, SHABBY CHIC.” I was floored. There was no question that she had clearly copied my entire design for our anniversary party that I had been planning for the last year. I told her verbatim what my plan was and she was even following me on Pinterest.

No more dinner party for us. No more beach views. No more Lighthouse Hotel. No white linen. No burlap. NO MASON JARS. I was done. I surely wasn’t going to have a party the month after with the same items from hers. We aborted mission and had to start from scratch. Thankfully, because I was the experienced Event Planner at the time that I was, I was able to come up with an entirely new direction and we had the celebration of the decade!! We hosted an Anniversary Showcase instead. Untraditional, because that’s who we are. Rented a small theater, hired 2 American Idol finalists to perform (I was a big American Idol fan back then), and hosted an amazing show + night for 200 of our friends and family. We even had a step and repeat backdrop so our guests could take photos with the performers!

And the mason jars, you ask? What happened to them? Well, while we were transitioning out of ‘dinner party’ mindset… My husband goes, you should just show up at her front door with all these mason jars and say (with disgust at their existence and embarrassment that they’re old news): “Here, I don’t even need these anymore.”

I had to tell that story because it seemed the only + perfect way to explain why I am retiring.

Yes, that’s what I said. I am retiring. At the close of this Leg of the Tour, I will no longer be visiting Tea Rooms and Tea Houses all over the greater San Francisco Bay Area and reviewing + writing about them. I have been at this for over 10 years and I have wanted this since last year. My health isn’t getting any better. (For those that need to catch up, start with this post: ‘I was given 3 years’) As a matter of fact, I only went through with this 4th Leg because my husband said it could be my last…

I will still go to afternoon tea, of course I will. It just won’t be a “job” anymore. I will get to go to all my favorite places with all my favorite people whenever I want, and not have to take notes or take photos of everything (or worse, video ew). Don’t get me wrong. It has been an absolute pleasure getting paid to write and do what I love. And I have met and made real relationships with so many along the way, professional and personal. I just wasn’t a fan of the business and socials part of it all. I am NOT an Influencer or Content Creator. I have ALWAYS first and foremost been a Writer. When I started this website over 10 years ago, I didn’t have to make reels or TikToks to get traffic to my site. And while many of you were still visiting this page even while we were on hiatus for a bit, numbers don’t lie. It is BECAUSE of our social media activity that our views get booming…after that Threads post, or after that funny voiceover I posted on TikTok. And it is through Instagram that I have been able to chat with many of you, and send you to all these places, and hear about how much your party enjoyed them. So I get how social media helps, I really do. However- it’s not where I want to be.

I have also closed my small private gourmet tea boutique. I have cut out a lot of unnecessary activities and distractions around me. I’ve wanted this for a long time! I guess this 4th Leg was my last hurrah. People (the few that I’ve told) have asked what I am going to be doing now that I am moving away from Tea. And- nothing! For however long I have left on this earth, I just want to live it in peace, quiet, and ease.

I read a thread recently. April Kae (I don’t know who she is but I always give credit where due @aprilkae) said: “The worst creative trap is creating only for applause. Don’t. Create for the part of you that needs to be heard.” And it struck a chord with me. I replied: “I feel this. I’ve created for so long… I have told my story, I have felt heard, and now I just want quiet.” Being done with creative ventures means I no longer have to soothe my trauma. To be perfectly honest- I needed all these [good] distractions all my life to keep from crumbling. Now, I’m okay with the quiet. I’ve healed enough to be okay with quiet.

How does this all connect to mason jars?

When I found out someone had stole my idea and tried to sell it to everyone as her own (btw, not the first time that was done to me…read more here)- I was DONE. Get those mason jars out my face, I don’t wanna see another mason jar for as long as I live, don’t ever associate me with mason jars ever again. I just wanted to wash myself from ever having collected them in the first place. They were beneath me. And NO! No one is trying to steal my website. And NO! I don’t think afternoon tea is beneath me. Not at all, never that. With what I see on social media, with Afternoon Tea just being overly saturated (errybody and they gramma wanna serve afternoon tea now) and taking away from the real + purist tea rooms… I just feel done. The aversion I feel isn’t isolated toward tea, the tea community, or even social media per se. To be CLEAR- it is for needing it and using it to put a veil over the repercussions of traumas that I no longer allow to hurt me.

One of my favorite lyrics from a song I appreciate says:

I wanna say I lived each day, until I died

I know that I had something in somebody’s life

The hearts I have touched, will be the proof that I leave

That I made a difference and this world will see

I was here

I lived, I loved, I was here

I did, I’ve done, everything that I wanted

And it was more than I thought it would be

I will leave my mark so everyone will know

I was here

I have made my presence in the Tea and Foodie Community. I have the respect and recognition from reputable people there. I have nothing to prove. “Queen of Tea in the Bay Area” was a name given to me. ORIGINAL CREATOR of “parTEA with me” is who I will always be. No one can change that. (no matter how much they might want to ha)

I am deactivating all my social media accounts. But this website will stay open (with the exception of archiving some more personal posts). If you haven’t already, please please PLEASE enter your email and subscribe to our email list. That will be the only way you can keep up with what we got going on in the future. There are still places I want to try! If I write about them or not…you’ll have to stay tuned. So much love to all of you who have been loyal to parTEA with me from the very beginning. (three prayer hand/gratitude emojis) Every single one of you who have donated have a special place in my heart. There are specific instructions my husband has as well, to update you all on my health… See you again. All Love, Olyve Rose

My CD Insert

After a Leg is done, I usually like to share my Final Thoughts and personally thank my guests that have come…etc etc. This is going to be a bit different. I’m gonna do the little summary for Leg 4, sure. But then I am going to add some Highlights and name some special people (I don’t usually include names), from the ENTIRE TOUR since 2014! And at the end of all that, a cool little feature- I’m going to list everyone (just initials to keep my personal friends’ privacy) that’s ever joined a tea party with me and the number of times they’ve attended our California Tea House Tour!!

LEG 4

This one was messy. No matter how much you plan (even my meticulous organized OCD self), there are just some things you won’t have control over. There were way too many Spots this Leg that just either didn’t have their act together, stopped their tea service, or weren’t sure if/when they were bringing it back. And I wasn’t gonna bother with any of that, so I just left them out. Quite a few, however, also popped up so we had additional ones to visit in place. I did discover some new gems, so I was really happy about that. I’m def going back to The Caviar Co. (already been twice more since hehe), Beacon Grand, Elliston, Kiki’s, and Rosewood Sand Hill FO SHO. Found my new “Regulars” too. These Sweethearts just make it so EASY for me, and I love that. I will invite them to Tea anytime, all the time. My health was slowly deteriorating all year, so I was getting slower with each new Spot Visit. Lots of times I didn’t even bring my DSLR, so the shots you see were just from my phone… Thankfully, my girls all knew how to support me when needed. Thank you to all who waited for me + my cane, parked closer (VIP paking with my placard heyy), offered their arm, or just made me feel like a human being. My husband said this could be my last Leg. And while sometimes it was a struggle, I’m glad I did it. I can’t say how many times at Tea, my friends talked about special moments on the Tour for them or how much they liked or disliked a place I brought them to. Those memories will be etched in my heart for always.

HIGHLIGHTS

When we met Amy, the owner of Crown & Crumpet, and she showed us such a good time I just knew this was going to be the start of something extraordinary.

When someone from this Spot searched for my name on facebook (I don’t have an account there anymore) to write me a nasty message about how I shared a FACT about his place. Changed my name on there after that.

Finding my new favorite go-to afternoon tea spot, The English Rose. I lost count how many tea parties I hosted there after that.

When we were offered the teeniest tiniest pre-selected [for us] tea sandwiches at this Spot and were treated awfully. Then went to have dinner at the Beach Chalet directly after because we were starving! But not before we all had to stop at the bathroom downstairs first where it smelled like the worst long lost dump you could ever imagine!!

When we met Ramesh at The Ritz-Carlton, and he gave us each to-go boxes with fresh new sweets and new jars of condiments to take home.

When we went to this Tea Spot and the owner came to our table and asked us: “Are you parTEA with me??” and was so excited to meet us! Decade made.

That potato salad from Muir’s Tea Room.

The filthiest tea pot spouts I’ve ever seen in my entire life. Writing about it. Writing the owner. And him writing me back, telling me that they bought things to clean it and are now having their staff trained on how to do it.

Meeting Mom (Christine) and Aubree (Chef) at Muir’s. Not knowing they were going to become like family.

The exemplary tea sandwich sizes at Malaya Tea Room.

That egg salad sandwich at Alexander’s Patisserie.

Having tea on a TRAIN!!

The Executive Chef Joseph L. Paire for Claremont Hotel coming out to meet + chill with me and the Huz.

Seeing owner Pauline at Dartealing Lounge, and her coming out to meet + speak with my girls and making it really special for them.

Having THREE COLLAB’s in a month!!?!

Revisiting my 2nd favorite tea room, only to be disappointed with how much their quality has lowered and moving them 28 spots DOWN on my raTEAng. (never done before)

Being the very first tea party reservation at K On The Go and meeting owners Justin + Tea, not yet knowing that this would become our 2nd home and we’d be seeing them often! And having my very first (and only) Guest Writer, my Daughter!!

Having the Hotel Manager at the Claremont come out to meet me and me having something in my teeth, sitting in front of my plate of One-Bite’s. (melting emoji)

Caviar.

The candle at Rosewood Sand Hill Hotel.

TEA GUESTS

Of the 78 official Tea House and Tea Room Visits, here’s how many my 73 friends + family have attended!

V.Ro. “Kika” – 23

M.K.K. “the Huz” – 21

N.V. – 17

T.L. “Florecita” – 14

M.S. – 13

S.M. “Earl Grey Gal” – 13

F.F. “Rizitos”- 13

A.P. “Mariposa” – 10

B.A. “Cutie Jr.” – 7

P.T. – 6

I.M. “Seat Mate Date/Wife of Filipino” – 6

Mar.A. “Cutie” – 5

E.B. “Big Sis” – 5

E.R. “Indy” – 5

S.E. “Daughter” – 5

R.L. – 4

Li.C. – 4

Me.A. – 3

A.V. – 3

J.C. – 3

Mic.M. – 2

P.A. – 2

A.L. – 2

H.M. – 2

F.S. – 2

M.D. “Mrs. Mamoa” – 2

Mir.M. – 2

Ma.M. – 2

I.S. – 2

E.S. – 2

L.L. – 2

T.H. – 2

T.W. – 2

St.R. – 2

1-Timer’s: G.M., R.P., R.R., C.P., V.H., Lo.C., B.L., N.M., M.V., V.Ri., Sha.M., Shi.M., R.C., S.C., O.I., NOVA, Mo.M., A.M., L.M., A.O., Ja.M., J.B., R.M., E.E., Jo.M., C.F., E.A., S.A. “Cutie’s Mr.”, M.C., D.L., J.S., R.D., A.T., L.E., So.R., H.A., C.R., Y.A., Man.A.

*SHOUT OUT* to Kika for going to 30% of all the Spots!! And to the Huz for coming with me to most of my Collabs and Late Entries!!

And here’s something fun I thought of including last minute… This is a FULL LIST of all the different places + countries that have visited + read our blog!! Hello to all you beautiful people and thank you for visiting my website! If you are from one of these countries PLEASE say ‘hello’ in the comments and tell us which one?!

United States

Albania

Algeria

Argentina

Australia

Austria

Bangladesh

Belarus

Belgium

Bosnia & Herzegovina

Brazil

Bulgaria

Cambodia

Canada

Chile

China

Columbia

Côte d’Ivoire

Croatia

Curaçao

Cyprus

Czechia

Denmark

Ecuador

Egypt

European Union

Finland

France

Germany

Ghana

Greece

Guatemala

Hong Kong

Honduras

Hungary

India

Indonesia

Iraq

Ireland

Israel

Italy

Japan

Jordan

Kenya

Kuwait

Lebanon

Malaysia

Maldives

Malta

Martinique

Mexico

Moldova

Mongolia

Myanmar (Burma)

Namibia

Netherlands

New Zealand

Norway

Pakistan

Paraguay

Peru

Philippines

Poland

Portugal

Puerto Rico

Qatar

Romania

Russia

Saudi Arabia

Singapore

South Africa

South Korea

Spain

Sri Lanka

Sweden

Switzerland

Taiwan

Tanzania

Thailand

Türkiye

Ukraine

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Uruguay

U.S. Virgin Islands

Venezuela

Vietnam

Zambia

Zimbabwe

IF YOU HAVEN’T ALREADY, PLEASE LEAVE US YOUR EMAIL IN THE FORM BELOW. YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS THE NEXT POST.

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my raTEAng 1-62

Thank you for waiting for these last 2 so I could include them! You guys love these!! Here you go!

From Stop it. Get some help. to I already can’t wait to go back:

62. iChina Restaurant, Santa Clara – Unsanitary tea spouts…need I say more? [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

61. Tal-Y-Tara Tea & Polo Shoppe, San Francisco – Outright rude and has no business being a tea house.

60. Tudor Rose English Tea Room, Santa Rosa – Eleven levels of tea service and you don’t even want one. [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

59. Secret Garden Tea House, San Francisco – Filthy place with yummy scones. [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

58. The Tearoom, Oakland – They don’t know how to make tea, don’t go. [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

57. Tea Time, Palo Alto – Awkward dirty cafe that left us thirsty.

56. The Golden Tea Garden, Hayward – Bad-mannered + arrogant owner with dollar store decor + tea. [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

55. Leland Tea Company, Burlingame – A cafe that serves food you can make yourself at home + buy yourselves from shelves, on 3 tiers.

54. Sip Tea Room, San Francisco – Take 2 of boring tea.

53. Hello Kitty Cafe, Santa Clara – Expensive nostalgia that doesn’t taste very good.

52. The Burgundy Rose Tearoom, Livermore – Not enough food…but that’s okay.

51. The Hidden Tea Room, Lodi – Everyone gets 2 scones.

50. Mints & Honey, San Carlos – Want waffles?

49. The RoyalTea Garden, Pleasanton – Forgettable tea service.

48. Son & Garden, Palo Alto – Take your selfie, leave the tea.

47. Croissante, Santa Clara – Not everyone needs to offer afternoon tea, especially this place.

46. Linde Lane Tea Room, Dixon – Snooty but pretty with fun sorbet intro. [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

45. Chill Tea & Coffee, Brentwood – Best theme everrr.

44. Lovejoy’s Tea Room, San Francisco – Pretentious area with spectacular Black Vanilla tea.

43. Quail & Thistle Tea Room, Capitola – Adorable building with overwhelming all-in-one plate. [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

42. The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus, San Francisco – Matter-of-fact service and expensive teeny tasteless food.

41. Eddison & Melrose Tea Room, Monterey – Okay tea, but recognition of who we were made my year. [TEA ROOM PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

40. Proper Hotel, San Francisco – Hodgepodge decor and hit-or-miss tea party foods.

39. Tyme for Tea & Co., Fremont – FORMERLY the perfect tea house, with perfect food, and perfect service.

38. SanDai & KOPI Bar, Walnut Creek – Cute concept and yay for included mimosas. [TEA ROOM PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

37. Satori Tea Company, San Jose – Interesting + eclectic, rum butter crumpets, and purple tea. [TEA ROOM PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

36. Filoli Gardens, Woodside – Stunning garden views with subpar overpriced cuisine.

35. Table For 6, San Mateo – Personal tea service in the Bay.

34. Grove 45, Calistoga – First time make-your-own-tea experience!

33. The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco – A definite must-experience with exceptional service.

32. Fairmont Hotel, San Francisco – Complex + unique flavors that just work, and a have-to-have pear compote.

31. Napa Valley Wine Train, Napa – A luxury and leisure tea I could totally get used to.

30. The St. Regis, San Francisco – A tea service that makes you feel rich, regal, and important.

29. Palace Hotel, San Francisco – Breathtaking surroundings and flawless food.

28. Lovey’s Tea Shoppe, Pacifica – Black Vanilla with Lavender tea, asparagus sandwich, and sweet staff.

27. Camellia Tea Room, Benecia – Impeccable service and an all-around wonderful time. [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

26. Lisa’s Tea Treasures, Los Altos – Like going to your sister’s house and having delicious tea.

25. Julia’s Restaurant, Berkeley – Like having tea in a secret society!

24. Maison Danel, San Francisco – A Croissant-Lover’s dream, but get dropped off. [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

23. Crown & Crumpet Tea Stop Cafe, San Francisco – Unforgettable crumpets and scrumptious tea sandwiches. [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

22. Tal’s Patisserie, Danville – Best rustic tea meal for a bread-lover, with best store-bought tea.

21. Elliston Vineyards, Sunol – The most enchanting setting and pure tea.

20. Hotel Nikko, San Francisco – A bounty of food and tea in a chic hotel.

19. Beacon Grand Hotel, San Francisco – Worth the wait.

18. Pardee Home, Oakland – A tour in a tour that will feed you until satisfaction and the definition of ‘cuteness overload’.

17. Alexander’s Patisserie, Mountain View – Home to the Best Tea Sandwich I’ve had on the entire Tour.

16. Crown & Crumpet, Ross – Gold standard of Afternoon Tea.

15. Jade Chocolates, San Francisco – Lilikoi marshmallow. [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

14. Chelokababi Restaurant, Sunnyvale – You’re missing out if you’ve never had Persian Tea before.

13. Always Yours Bakery Cafe, Castro Valley – Everything was good, which is not common.

12. Kiki’s Coffee Shop, San Mateo – Hosted by a brother + sister and fed so well.

11. Rosewood Sand Hill Hotel, Menlo Park – “Desserts on the tier, but the sandwiches were slammin.”

10. Dartealing Lounge, San Francisco – Best sandwiches and cutest ambiance.

9. Claremont Hotel, Berkeley – Would come for the biscuits and scones alone.

8. The Third Floor, San Francisco – Eyes rolling in the back of your head good. [TEA SERVICE PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

7. K On The Go, Union City – I would come here every day if I could.

6. The White Hart Tea Room, Pacific Grove – Really like going to someone’s house for tea (cuz you are), and having true homemade food (cuz you are). [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

5. Four Seasons, Palo Alto – Really good everything and you’ll want to come back already by the end of your meal.

4. The Caviar Co., Tiburon – If you’re not a Caviar-Lover, you will be.

3. Malaya Tea Room, Alameda – New go-to spot with exemplary finger sandwiches.

2. The English Rose Tea Room, Pleasanton – A hundred delectable teas and textbook shabby chic decor. [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

1. Muir’s Tea Room, Sebastopol – There are no words invented yet that describe how GOOD this Tea Spot is, it excels in all aspects of Afternoon Tea.

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