I was getting nervous. (not really, but it’s fun to say that!) Since my retirement, I’ve still been to Tea at least once a month! (grin emoji) For those that like random bits of information just as much as I like listing it…
June 2026 – Bar Tea, The Fat Pigeon + Huz Date: KOPI Bar and Bakery
Which I never showed you a pic of… Was happy to have been invited back, as they really stepped up their game! (read our previous review here) Def more savories, like LOTS more! Want to go back again for sure.
So back to my being nervous… I have tea plans already in August, but nothing was popping up yet in July. And it’s not even like I HAVE to do Tea once a month, not at all. It’s just FUN to hahah!! Me + my OCD wanted to keep the streak going! I thought I was gonna try Dartealing’s new menu (cuz their last one ended in June)…
Now, I’m not on socials. Yall know that. But I checked something real quick on my Blog account (you can still follow IG @parTEAwithmeBlog as I might occasionally post a Story or an update) and (while I have multiple) decided to check a single DM that came from one of my girlfriends just 39-minutes ago. Her nicknames are “Seat Mate Date/Wife of Filipino” on the blog posts and she quickly became a new Regular because she was so easy to make plans with, so much fun to be around. It was a reel about a tea service I did NOT want to miss! (that her girlfriend actually sent to HER, knowing she loves to parTEA with us!) I texted her right away and because this Tea was only available for 3 weekends…made plans to go the soonest we were available. Which was Sunday (the only day that I could possibly squeeze this in), and we just texted on Thursday!! Her Foodie Husband was already on board checking the parking situation there, my Huz was now in, and the Cutie Girls couldn’t make it (missed you boos) but Cutie’s Mr. was coming fo sho!
It was a BEAUTY AND THE BEAST themed Tea yall.
The musical is playing at the Orpheum so the Fairmont decided to do a special menu in honor of the show! You only have 2 more weekends to try this tea service and you don’t wanna miss it! (see, this is why joining our email list is important…then you won’t miss out on these!)
I loved it all tho. Deffffinitely stepped up their game since the last time I’ve been. (which was in June 2016 btw!) We had great service (thank you Wu!) and VIP parking (thank you Tony!).
The scones were slammin. Lots + lots of cherries and crispy edges.
The Grey Stuff tho. Boyyy. That was my favorite. You’ll have to come and forreal TRY IT!! Everything had adorable names that were nods to the movie. The collection of tea sandwiches and sweets were on par!
But of course, it was my company. The company always makes the experience. We drove over together and took a walk to see the Rooftop Garden after. So much fun with these guys, even tho me + my girl were outnumbered by the boys! Hehe. Love my family.
Join our email list if you haven’t already. You will not wanna miss what’s coming in a few weeks! See you then! (kissie emoji)
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I’ve included many a link in text messages to friends, in DM’s (for those requesting recommendations), on Threads…you name it. And sometimes the cover photo for that blog post hit, and sometimes it didn’t. Ugh, especially for the “my raTEAng” ones that highlighted the nasty teapot spout from iChina yuckth.
Recently, Iii maay haaave stumbled on the option within my website host dashboard that allows me to SELECT the feature image for that post whenever I send it!!?! (three open mouth emojis) Well whaddya know!? How cool! I mean, I guess I’m sure I knew there was a way…hehe. I just wasn’t keen to it haha! (Yes, for over 10 years leave me alone!)
Anyway, once I found this- oh it was on. I went through each and every post I’ve ever created and carefully designated the PERFECT PICTURE that set the tone for my review or update or author piece. It was so much fun!
So as I’m scrolling through HUNDREDS of media photos of stunning tiers and steeped cuppas and distinctive interior design… I start realizing just HOW MANY incredible tea services I’ve had the opportunity to experience and gorgeous + delectable foods I got to try, interesting places I’ve been and unforgettable people I’ve met. And I was floored. How was this my life…?
I felt just so honored and privileged and blessed. What a life I have lived…
The gratitude I feel for all those who have read or followed or donated to this website, all the friends + family who have parTEA’d with me, the numerous owners of tea rooms and hotels I’ve gotten to know- is immense. THANK YOU for naming me “Queen of Tea in the Bay Area”, I don’t take that title lightly.
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Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!
This time, I DO remember how I heard about this Tea Spot. Always giving credit where due… Mrs. Cutie sent me a reel about it, and when I saw ‘Livermore’ I thought this was the spot I had already had reservations for. But it wasn’t!? And I got excited. Made plans to go with her and Cutie Jr. right away!
However, we had to wait a bit for this one. It was supposed to be part of our last Leg, but they were running Halloween then Christmas themes…and I wanted to wait until after those since we didn’t celebrate. Busy calendars, a bit of rescheduling, and finally we made it today!
The theme was: “Lost on Pigeon Island”, which they described as a ‘tropical tiki vibe’. The first time they’ve offered it. If you’re a long time follower of the Blog, you know I love me a Hawaiian/Tropical/Tiki theme! (i.e. Spot #37 :: Jade Chocolates, Island Style High Tea – Kalani Kakes, Muir’s Tea Room | Holoholo Tiki Tea, Spot #54 :: Chill Tea & Coffee, and Spot #56 :: Kiki’s Coffee Shop) It speaks to my Hawaiian roots (that I was never allowed to embrace, but that’s a-whole-nother story…). This just added to the long awaited anticipation.
The moment you walk in, you are transported mmkay. The DED-I-CA-TION to the theme, let me tell you! I will not insert any photos, because you need to experience it organically as we did. And I won’t say anymore! (zipper lips emoji) I want to! But I won’t.
Wait, can I just tell you about the table…okay, nevermind.
They offered our party of 3 two choices of teas, that they would bring out a pot at a time during the tea service. Already loving this. All the options sounded + smelled (they have loose leaf samples out to help with your selection) delicious. We chose their Love Story and Big Kahuna blends. Terrific! Both of them.
Our lush tier was PACKED with 3 tea sandwiches, 4 pastries, 4 sweets, Teriyaki Chicken Skewers for each of us, AND THEN a honkin slice of Tiramisu too!
They don’t have the menu written anywhere, so this is my best description + memory of everything. (and I didn’t take notes cuz I wasn’t working!) The tea sandwiches were Cucumber, Tomato and Mozzarella, and Turkey and Muenster. These were nice size sandwiches too. The BREAD! (whiny face emoji) That bread was eeverryyythiinggg. It was soft, it was chewy, it had depth. All the sandwiches had a specific characteristic that made them unique to Fat Pigeon, I thought. Their Cucumber had avocado and mint…ugh that mint was so good. The tomatoes had a welcome tartness to them. Ooh the meat + cheese one had grainy mustard!! Me + Cutie Jr. couldn’t stop talking about it. I had to practice so much restraint to not inhale them all as fast as I could…since I like to have my salty with my sweets.
We all got some Snickerdoodle Scones that had the best chew you could imagine. There was a Sticky Bun/Cinnamon Roll thing that was so fun. I said it was like chewing on sand in the best way possible hehe! This Custard Pastry with Raspberries was also really good. (and I don’t even like raspberries) But the best thing on that level was their Lemon Tart!! Ughhh, The crust had a nice bite and the filling was perfection: not too sour, not too sweet. I would be fine with a whole 9×13 pan to myself!
Not pictured (in the ONE picture I took haha) were the skewers and cake slice. I don’t know what they did to dem teriyaki chicken thangs but they had just the THINNEST crust on them and then the juiciest, most tender meat inside!? (in disbelief emoji) Those were incredible. The Tiramisu too: not too sweet, not too alcoholy. I didn’t even make it to the Sweets there! There was so much food!! But brought home the Guava and Cheese thing, the Macaron, and others. There wasn’t anything we had today that wasn’t excellent.
So um, we wanna be put on reservations for all upcoming themes hahah! They change seasonally, so make sure you check on their socials to be kept in the loop. The customer service there was delightful! We were taken good care of. Even the bathrooms are cute. Oh and, AND (how could I forget) they played allll the jammms! Dope music selection for sure.
After that fiasco at the Ritz, we needed this. Mos def worth the wait. I hope you guys stop in to check them out for their afternoon tea! Cuz oh yeah, they’re also a BAR!! How cool is that!? To have Tea in a Bar. But I would say- come ESPECIALLY if you’re a TEXTURES person. There were textures galore here, and it all made for a very fun meal! We absolutely loved it. Always a pleasure with my Cuties. Special *shout out* to Cutie Sr. for picking this Spot!
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Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!
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’s 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.
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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.
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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!
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Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!
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Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!
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.
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Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!
Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!
Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!
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!!!
Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!
Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!
Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!
[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)
Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!
Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!
Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!
“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.
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Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a one-time donation! Thank you in advance!
Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a monthly donation! Thank you in advance!
Thank you so much for reading about our Tea House Tour! If you are moved to contribute to our visiting more Tea Spots for you, here’s where you can make a yearly donation! Thank you in advance!
parTEA with me 