I’ve been thanking people for donations for a while now. Sometimes my Stories posts mention donations. But, donations for what? Since we’re so close to approaching the 4th Leg of our Tour, I thought I would do a full blog post just about that.
Full transparency. (as per usual that you get from me)
At the bottom of every blog post I publish, you’ll see a Donations Form. It gives you options for monetary donations on a one-time, monthly, or yearly basis. And if you are moved to contribute, I wanted to tell you what that money goes towards.
If you’ve been here a while, you’ll know that Afternoon Tea is expensive. If you’re new around here (well, first Welcome!), hey Afternoon Tea is expensive. Our Leg’s are usually a full year long, sometimes longer. We do one a month. At average $50-70 each tea service, times 12 months = $600.00-840.00! And again, this is average. The most I’ve paid for tea was $250, and the least around $40.
Let’s get this straight right now: I AM NOT ASKING YOU TO PAY FOR MY TEA, that I volunteer and choose to do on my own.
For those that have and would like to donate, I’m just here telling you what that goes to. So yes, I/we have decided to visit these Afternoon Tea Spots all on our own. And I pay for these visits myself. (and my girlfriends do the same; of course, not all of them are going to ALL Tea Spots like I am) With the exception of less than a handful of collabs a Leg (that I disclose on those posts), each and every visit on the Tour is paid out of my pocket.
And that’s all that your donations go to. Not clothes, not camera equipment, not books (I’m a book-lover, are you?!). Just tea.
Without putting aaall our business out there- we are a one-income household and I am legally disabled (without disability benefits). My day job as a property manager pays me $11.00 every 2 weeks (yup, no typo there, no missing 00’s or anything). I own a small private gourmet tea boutique where I create and sell teas, for mostly friends + family. (so I’m not making major bucks off my friends or anything, the little I make goes towards my Tour visits or book habit hehe) This website is monetized, but it’s not like paying off my mortgage or anything! SO YOUR DONATIONS HELP SO SO MUCH!!!
Thanks to you kind Donators, friends and strangers, I have been able to continue doing what I love. I have never ASKED for donations, I just let you know that option is available should you choose to give out of your own genuine free will. I APPRECIATE ALL of you, whether you donate or not. Those that follow, ‘Like’, comment, share our social media posts- I see each and every one of you. Those who have entered your email and subscribed to this website (which you can do at the bottom of each blog post too)- I see each and every one of you. Those who vibe with me and get to see my personality on Threads- I see each and every one of you. Those who laugh with me and get my silly voiceovers on TikTok- I see each and every one of you. So really, while this is meant to inform you of behind-the-scenes stuff… It really is an APPRECIATION post to all of you who inspire + motivate me to keep going. THANK YOU for letting me write. (three hand thanking emojis, that are really hi-five’ing emojis, but we use for hand thanking or praying)
One-Time
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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!
My sister + I were just talking about meeting for brunch someday soon when heyyy! Did you know that Alexander’s does BRUNCH!!?! They only started offering it recently. Daily until 2p. And YES we would love to try it!! Sadly, she had to take an emergency trip so she wasn’t able to come with me this time. But we will def be coming back cuz I have to share these gems with her!!
Tornado Egg Omelette (egg, ham, homemade honey mustard, croissant, fruit) – These eggs were scrambled just like mom would make them at home, so you’re instantly met with nostalgic comfort. The ham had a nice saltiness. As simple as this one was, it was SO good. My 2nd favorite, hands down.
Champion’s Croissant Avocado Toast (oeuf poche, avocado, crispy prosciutto, pecorino romano, micro arugula, on top of the famous flat croissant) – Freshness hits you first, then the crispy prochutes (that’s what we call it at home!) (I know, what kind of Italian am I?! hehe), a little avo action, and juicy egg! There’s a nice heat that hits you in the back of the throat…but what I really liked was that citrusy sour note.
Spiral Burger (prime beef, triple cheese, runny egg, veggies, secret sauce) – I don’t even know what to say about this… (whiny emoji) Burger King who? McDonald’s who? This burger was so juicy, the sauce was exquisite, and that croissant bun just puts it on another level. Also if I might add, if you’re an arugula freak like I am- all the arugula galore that you could ever hope for!! (clapping hands emoji) We would happily pay this price over value menu pricing any day.
Coconut Overnight Oats (chia seeds, seasonal fruit, honey glazed nuts, coconut milk, maple syrup) – Creamy like a panna cotta (raise your hand if you know that’s my favorite dessert), nice crunch from all the nuts, honey hanging out in the background, and perfectly-timed ripe sweet berries. Spoon, licked clean.
Roasted Beef Panini (roasted prime beef, sweet onion, grilled pepper with onion olive oil, secret sauce) – Let me start off by saying: I didn’t even want this one. Hahah! (I was looking at their chicken one with more arugula and garlic aioli) But I am soo grateful that I agreed to what my date chose, because this was my absolute favorite of the brunch!! The tanginess of that sauce!! Onion was grilled to perfection, the juiciest red pepper, and the bite to the beef was excellent. I’m gonna have to ask the Huz to pick me up one of these when he’s on that side of town again, cuz…ugh, SO GOOD.
What a treat, we even got to try 2 of their NEW DESSERTS! Thank you to our gracious host for picking these beauties!
Mango Tango (mango cremeux, vanilla chiffon, passion whip ganache, vanilla mousse) – The mousse was delicately light. But don’t let that fool you cuz it was FULL of mango flavor! I want more!! (Legit just remembered I had my second half in the fridge and devoured it just now after writing this!)
Zen (matcha diplomat cream, matcha sponge cake, raspberry confit) – I had to have a moment after my first bite. I keep using the word ‘perfect’ in this, but I can’t think of a better adjective!? Soo I’m gonna keep using it k! PERFECT matcha flavor (not too earthy, not artificial tasting at all) with a light raspberry vibe.
So back to my question ‘Do you Brunch?!’… If you do, I have just the place! Go for the Roasted Beef Panini alone man, seriously!! But don’t forget to get the Tornado Egg too. And you’ll have to try the Spiral Burger of course. Oh, and the Champion’s Croissant too! Just come okay!! I’ll meet you there!
Thank you thank you thank you once again to the entire Alexander’s Patisserie team for showing us such a good time! We are always welcomed with such warmth and love. You are all such a pleasure to work with, I always leave not being able to wait to come back! (and then my poor husband gets sent there consistently for the following weeks after, to fetch craving requests for me hehe. LOVE HIM for it, thank you Poppi) If you’ve not already, please visit my friends at Alexander’s and enjoy their new Brunch Menu! Then tell us all about it, we love hearing from you.
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!
“Break-shmeak!” is what I told her verbatim. Did you guys really think I would miss out on the opportunity to try Muir’s tropical tea service and surround myself with their translation of Polynesian decor?! Absolutely not. My late Hawaiian maternal grandmother would be upset! (well not really, she never got mad at anyone actually…this was just my way of bringing up my roots I guess, hehe) Their once every summer theme has returned, and parTEA with me was there the very first weekend it opened to taste everything and report back with all the deats!!
The garden is in full bloom! We took our preferred patio seat outside of course, but this time on the other side. And. I loved it!!
Grandma’s Garden (A caffeine free beautiful red tea, with ripe fruit and berries.) – We both wanted something different this time, so we tried 2 teas with the words “Garden” in them. We love a red tea (rooibos) in the house, so this was an easy choice! Fruity, slight tart, (def has hibiscus in there), slight cream.
The Queen’s Rose Garden (The Queen’s roses lend their soft touch to this beautiful and sweet tea, which is richly enhanced by warm sweet vanilla.) – This tea is incredible. Yall already know the ‘vanilla’ part is what caught my attention. It had thee best vanilla flavor. I don’t know WHY I hadn’t tried this one yet…it was on their regular menu.
English Garden Prosecco Cocktail (Cherry, Pomegranate and Elderberry Juice Mixed with Grenadine and Bubbly Prosecco) – There’s the word “garden” again! We got to try some alcoholic beverages too this trip!! (yayyy) You could def taste the cherry in this one. Complex flavors made you keep sipping!
Butterfly Bellini Prosecco Cocktail (Peach Juice with Bubbly Prosecco) – Simply explained and simply delicious. The dancing glitters were a nice touch!
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad on a bed of greens – It’s hard for me to try anyone else’s mac salad, cuz the Huz makes an excellent one. But this was really good. And they always kill it with the dressing! The celery was a great addition too (which isn’t usual in your typical Hawaiian mac). My favorite part is knowing it’s not gonna tear up my stomach cuz it’s dairy-free!! For as long as I’ve been coming here, I never finish the salad. It’s a mountain of it and I always know to leave room for the tier + sweets. Girrrl, no To-Go today cuz I finished every morsel.
Mango Scone with house made lemon curd, jar of imported raspberry preserves & “cream” – Most perfect scone. Nice crunch at first bite, then all the fluffy. The mango bits were fun to chew! Lemon curd = unmatched.
My sister voted them Most Fullest Tier! The tickets were GENIUS.
Kukama (cucumber) Tea Sandwich with Chives – My favorite is that they do all the chives and use a whole STACK of cucumbers!
Ahi Kanuika | Chickpea “Tuna” Salad Finger Sandwich – I was trying to figure out what I was tasting… Is that citrus? Is that dill? It was sweet relish!! Oh man, and it was so tasty. This one had a good mouthfeel.
Uala Uwale | Sweet Potato Slice with Avocado – Okay, my favorite so far. Super roasty! Adored the caramelized edges.
Luke Melehune ‘aka ‘akai | Lettuce Cup with Mushroom Filling – “Is that poi??” That’s what my sister asked when I sent her a pic of the tier. That’s what I thought, and that’s what the Huz was thinking. WELL DONE Muir’s, well done. (three clapping emojis) It looked just like poi. Had me salivating just like poi does for me. But, it wasn’t poi. Clever tho huh!? The crunch of the lettuce and the goo of the filling just worked so well.
Ko ala ‘ala | Terriyaki Tofu & Veggie Puff Pastry Dumpling – Can’t believe that’s tofu. The sauce was everything. Pastry, always perfect. Every time you bite it, there’s something new! All the veggies in there were cooked to perfection.
Guava Cupcake – Legit licked the paper. What does Joey say…? “I’m not even sorry!” Haha. The syrup was so good!! I’m like- can I have some of that guava syrup to-go please?!
Macadamia Nut Shortbread – As always, gold standard.
Hot Lava Volcano | Coconut Stack dipped in Chocolate – Soo inventive! The moistest. Ugh, and the crunchy sprinkles. (the sighing I can’t emoji) They really think of everything!
Okay so- they executed this amazingly. It wasn’t too overly Hawaiian, like there weren’t hibiscus flowers everywhere! Muir’s did what Muir’s does and presented this theme with such class and respect for all Poly cultures. As a real Hawaiian-blooded diner (my DNA says so), I Olyve Lokelaniho’āla, appreciated this theme so much. I already can’t wait til next summer!!
If you noticed in the picture of the Tier too, they hooked it up with my favorite and had some Li Hing Mui on the side! Yezzir! Or lihimui (what we’d call it) if you grew up with it, or just li hing. IYKYK. The Huz and I practically cleaned that little dish out! They always pack their tiers with so much fruit, and this just elevated the entire experience!!
After our Service (I lie, I was eyeing about $100 worth of stuff before I even got to my seat!), I went to grab all my goodies at their Gift Shop. They hand-select specific items to be sold there and they must’ve just restocked or brought in some new stuff cuzzz- I wanted to buy everything!! MAKE SURE you peruse when you go.
A cute thing they do that I didn’t get a picture of last time (but I did this time!) is wash + leave out the old preserves jars that people leave from their tea service, for guests to take for free. The Huz got a kick out of this since we just cleaned and restocked our spice rack at home. We were short some jars, so he was excited to take a few today!
So yes, I’m still on Break…but this was so much fun! Anything for Muir’s, seriously. I am so happy & honored to be able to share this New Menu with all of you. But, I need a favor. If you’re reading this and are on social media (since I’m currently not), would you mind sharing it for me please?! Help me spread the word about this terrific theme cuz I don’t want yall to miss out! Thanks in advance. By the way, are you guys liking the Top 5’s?? I thought that would be a fun way to still put out some posts for you loyal ones while I’m out. More coming!
~ SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO ARE CONTINUING TO READ THE BLOG, FOLLOWING, DONATING, AND STILL ROCKIN WITH US ON OUR SOCIALS ~ I will be back in no time!
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 am NOT an Influencer and I am NOT a Content Creator. I am no one special. I do not have a Platform. And I don’t need to make money on what I love doing for the fun of it.”
I had a few topic ideas for this About The Author post between my tea house visits…but this seemed more pressing to talk about. When I used to watch family vlogs, even tho I knew they didn’t owe us any explanations for absences from filming or content changes- I appreciated the heads up. So, that’s what I’m doing here. Even tho I don’t need to, it is a courtesy to share this change in my mindset.
I was gonna talk about the similarities I share with Prince, Dave Chapelle, and Barbara Streisand. But I don’t want to give away my entire farm now! (and if you happen to just know what they all have in common, share your thoughts in the comments!) There’s A LOT that goes into this decision. I could talk about distractions… I could talk about my view of money… Or, I could even talk about running themes. But, I don’t want to. (can you tell I’m trying to prolong this?)
I’ll just say: There’s been a shift.
I am + have been blown away by the enormous success that came in a hurry for me + this blog in recent. Never in my hopes and dreams would I ever have thought that I’d be in the position(s) I was in!? (brain explosion emoji) Having the incredible privilege to work with some amazing establishments has been humbling. With that said, these partnerships came so fast I didn’t even realize how huge it all was until they passed…!? That, coupled with being surrounded by Foodies who were quitting their day jobs… It was a lot. To say the least.
I was getting caught up. “Work” was being taken too serious and I wasn’t being present to enjoy it all. In the last couple weeks, I have taken the time to understand what this all means for me. This Leg of the Tour ends mid-May, and I am taking a well-deserved BREAK. I’ve talked about this before and I knew what that looked like. I would be free for leisure Tea with girlfriends, and continuing to post on all my socials.
However…
After this shift in thinking, that might look a little bit different now. I do still have a FULL 4th Leg planned to start late this year. BUT, let’s see how my break goes! No promises from me as of yet. Okay yall…? I still very much love to visit tea rooms + tea houses. I still very much love to review them. And don’t get me wrong (okay “Establishments”?! Hehe), I still very much loved/love working with awesome people!! This isn’t, like, a Retirement Speech or anything! I’m just letting yall know that I’m doing a reset, going back to basics, and making sure I’m being fully intentional with everything I got going on when it comes to this Blog. I am a WRITER first and foremost. Not a Foodie, not an Influencer, not a Content Creator…not a videographer, not a TikToker. Let me get back to my first love…
Thanks for listening! (muah)
One-Time
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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!
Whew! February was a whirlwind!! I had the absolute pleasure of being invited to try TWO new tea service menus, revisiting TWO old beloved Tea Spots, and being hosted to a Patisserie Tasting! (sweat bead emoji) (humbled emoji) FIVE Tea Things, 4 of which were in the span of just 2 weeks!! I feel blessed and honored. If you haven’t caught up yet, here are the quick links:
Okay, now for the topic at hand… I couldn’t wait to write about this one! It’s been marinating around in my brain for some months.
So, in July, this website will be 10!!! And if you’re a longtime Reader/Follower, you will have noticed that we NEVER changed the theme. It’s been the same corally orange, with that same tea set pic in the upper lefthand corner, with the same ribbon headings. For. 10. Years. I love our theme!! Of course, just as I’ve aged 10 years, so has my taste in decor and style. However, there was something pulling on me to stay loyal to this original design…? So I just never changed it! And come on, I’m a Creative Director. I would have loved to put my skills into meticulously decorating this space. I can’t even get the font + spacing how I want on here!! Hahaha.
But since coming back on, after our break in 2018 and then the Pandemic… It goes without saying (whatever that means) that there has been a maaaajoooor boost in views, visits, follows, subscribers, donators…everything!! And just recently, I had to put out a Stories post on IG, notifying everyone that this website crashed as the hosting I use wasn’t able to support the level of traffic we were having.
Remember, we are about to be 10-years-old. And in internet age, you might as well be a zillion! I started this website FOR FREE, with the most popular website host at that time. Needless to say, it was taking double + triple time to upload things and save things…and wait for this host to keep up with what I was producing. Coupled with my dinosaur laptop, I am surprised I don’t have carpal tunnel and tennis elbow and a hunchback from what I’ve endured in recent!? HA! But this is no complaint. I am beyond ecstatic to have the workload that I have had!! I just need to make some changes.
Sooo. All this to say- I am in the process of changing my host. Which breaks my heart a little, cuz I will probably have to find a new website theme. Say ‘goodbye’ to the ribbon headers guys! Until then, if you haven’t already, PLEASE GET ON OUR EMAIL LIST. This will ensure you don’t miss out on any updates or changes during this process. And with all the angst about Instagram going down (or other platforms for that matter), at least we will always have this way to keep in touch.
Thank you to our REAL ONES!!!
One-Time
Monthly
Yearly
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!
Yes, I stood up on a chair to get this shot! (don’t worry, I took my shoes off…and I had someone close by) (I wish I had a picture of THAT!) Do you remember the Patisserie we visited back in September? The one I said had “thee best tea sandwich from the entire Tour”!? Well, we were so privileged + honored to be invited back to Alexander’s!! (three clapping hands emojis) We got to try a variety of their gorgeous savory + sweet pastries that were complimented with delicious alcoholic drinks! Ugh, what a special afternoon!!
Egg & Bacon Croissant – Like a whole breakfast in one bite! That egg was cooked to perfection, the bacon was chewy, and it came warm + toasted just right. This was our favorite savory, hands down.
Ham & Cheese (Gruyère) Croissant – Good crunchy layers, ham not too salty, cheese gooey. Definitely an upscale ham + cheese!
Matcha Croissant – Excellent matcha flavor. Sometimes people don’t get this right or it’s just too much. This wasn’t earthy or “grassy”, but a nice mild + sweet green tea taste frosting + filling.
Strawberry Vanilla Croissant – Our host said this was a best seller and highly recommended it. We said Okay! You guys, I’m so glad she did. And we did. Cuz- when I say I was the happiest girl eating this croissantttt!! I’m not even a ‘berry’ fan like that. I would have never picked this if she didn’t say anything. It was soo decadent. The croissant bread was almost creamy and the filling was so fluffy light. (salivating writing this and can’t wait til my husband goes back in that area so he can pick me up a few!) They do strawberry SO right.
Chocolate Hazelnut Flat Croissant – These are what they are going viral for right now. We were excited to finally try! Interesting, it was almost like a crispy cookie.
Strawberry Flat Croissant – Like a frosted cookie! Such nice strawberry flavor, nothing artificial about it.
Almond Croissant – I saved this and the next one for last, cuz they’re favorites of mine. Crunchiest pastry and classic almond filling.
Banana Chocolat Croissant – The mashed bananas were the perfect amount of sweetness. Just a little bit of chocolate. So good.
Earl Grey Petit Gateaux (earl grey chocolate mousse with kumquat confit center topped on a choclate sable) – I’m suuuure you’ve seen this cake! If you’ve seen anything that has to do with Alexander’s, SOMEONE has posted this cake in there. I mean, look at it! It’s the most stunning piece of art. (doesn’t it remind you of the ocean?!) I saw it the first time we went, and I’ve not stopped thinking about it. When our gracious host asked us if we wanted to try any of the cakes- uh, YEAH! That one please! So, they recently changed the center to kumquat…and it is indeed the star. So happy we got to try this, it was amazing!
And now for the Headliners!!
These were the genius accompaniments to our meal. I had the Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial NV. As good as it gets! I had way more than I should have aaand I wasn’t sorry about it!! For the beers, I’m gonna quote the expert I brought along with me! (wink) My husband is somewhat of a craft beer connoisseur, and has been visiting a number of breweries around the US and Bay Area since 2012.
Eden Specialty Apple Cider Peak Bloom – He says, “Clean, mild apple flavor. Crisp, sour taste. Not overpowering and pairs well with their croissants.”
Original Pattern Brewing Company There It Is Hazy IPA – He says, “Not a very bitter IPA, but a nice clean hops profile. Would pair this with their savories or almond croissants. I would also have it with any of their berry flavored items.”
I didn’t get to try any of the macarons or chocolates there, but we did go home with a nice variety. And, we got to try them all with the kids! (I did a quick photo shoot of em at home too!)
Salted Caramel – Very caramely, deep flavor.
Cappuccino – Light coffee flavor, not too sweet.
Rose Champagne – Mild champagne, with rose aftertaste. Could really taste the almonds in the shell.
Passion Fruit – Oh yes, sweet lilikoi!
Lavender – Intriguing lavender…like a bath bomb!
Rose Lychee – More rose than lychee, but the lychee hits you at the end. Loved that one!
I did have the opportunity to try their chocolates before. And I knew enough that their S’mores one was my fave. But this time, I told her to surprise me!! (was so happy to see s’mores in our box yayyy!)
Cappuccino – Well-flavored. Perfect.
Jasmine – Very faint jasmine, such good dark chocolate.
S’mores – The best. Whatever graham they use, is amazing.
And last but not least, I didn’t even get to mention yet (I’m sure you saw in our first pic of the entire tablescape tho)- I got to have my White Truffle Brioche tea sandwich!!! HOORAY FOR ME! Of course, the rest of their delectable tea service menu too!! “I think I love this little life…” Haha. I know you know what that song is!
What a memorable experience. I feel so grateful to have been able to spend an afternoon at Alexander’s trying all their elevated pastries and adult beverages! We were treated with the utmost care by our gracious host and loving staff. Got to meet some cool customers there too. (if that was you, say ‘hi’ in the comments!) If you are going to be in the Mountain View or Cupertino area, make a plan to visit them!! Gather your comfiest friends, and share some carbs + drinks! I mos def recommend the egg + bacon croissant, strawberry vanilla croissant, and a nice tall glass of champagne!!
Last but not least, what made my year-
When we first walked in and I gave them my name + company I was with, the girl behind the counter gasped, smiled, and said “Ooh, parTEA with me!?” I LOVED THAT SO SO MUUUUCH!!!
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!
If you read my first experience of visiting the Claremont, you’ll know just how HUGE it was for me to be invited back again to try their newest tea service menu!!
If you have no idea what I’m talking about, read this first. I’ll wait.
On February 10 and 11, the Claremont Club & Spa Hotel offered their NEW + VERY FIRST Galentine’s Day Tea tea service menu and we had the special privilege of being one of the firsts to try it! If you don’t know what ‘Galentine’s’ is (like I didn’t, lol), I looked it up for yall! It’s a time to celebrate the girlfriends in your life!! “Ooooo My Girlfriends, there through thick and thin… My girlfriends, there for anything… My Girlfriends” (are singing along in your head?) Naturally, I thought to bring 2 of my girlfriends who expressed interest in having tea at the Claremont…but they couldn’t make this one. (Heyyy hey Cutie + Cutie Jr.! You were missed.) As I was thinking of another couple girls to bring, I see my husband’s puppy dog eyes waiting for an invite to be extended haha! Okay, I’ll take you Boo!! He is my biggest supporter + cheerleader.
I was already anticipating the gorgeous room they were gonna take us to. Seriously one of the best venues, guys. You just know you’re surrounded by luxury.
As we were being seated by our stunning Hostess, I could tell she did her homework and knew exactly who I was. She knew when we were here last, was so accommodating, and gave us a little intro about the Harpist that was there. Have yall ever been entertained by a Harpist tho?! When I tell you it’s the most beautiful thing!! (whiny face emoji) I never really knew how much I needed a harp in my life ’til today! Hahah… She played all the best songs- I wanted to sing along and record each one all afternoon!! (Give her a follow here)
It was so hard not to look at the menu. I really like to be surprised you guys! While waiting for our tea selections, we were offered a glass of sparkling rosè. Our Hostess was so sweet, she even turned the label to face me since she knew I was about to film a video!! I chose their sencha, and the Huz picked jasmine today.
Kyushu Japan Sencha (Spring harvest yields a deliciously vegetal green tea with buttery smoothness) – I’ve been a sencha girl lately, and they caught me with that ‘buttery’. A classic good sencha.
Organic Jasmine Gold Dragon (Nighttime harvested jasmine flowers offer an extensive floral character to a delicate early spring green tea) – Very fragrant! A really good quality jasmine.
Take it in, go ahead.
Rosemary Honey Biscuit – Okay, I don’t even like rosemary!! But it was so sweet-smelling and inviting and tasted so good. Crispy edges and fluffy insides check! With that whipped butter and their signature honey…ugh, can’t get enough. Savored every morsel.
Sour Cherry Chocolate Scone (Orange Marmalade, Devonshire Cream) – The crispiest! Tart cherry, so juicy. This was like a dessert, decadent. Definitely my favorite of the entire tier.
Maitake Mushroom Tartine (Whipped Burrata, Toasted Hazelnuts, Thyme Honey) – I’m gonna copy my notes here verbatim, so yall know I always keep it real with you: “tasted like weed, but in the best way possible.” (laughing crying emoji) I asked my husband if that was offensive to say, and he said people might be turned off. Then I told him I couldn’t not write that, cuz that was my legit thought! But later I even asked the chef, and he even said it was the best compliment haha! Now it has been over 20-years for me… But even if you have never had it but have smelled it, I guarantee this is how you would explain this one too. It was just so woodsy and NOTHING like I’ve ever tasted before. This item was the Huz’s favorite and he goes “if you don’t want it, I’ll take it off your hands” before I even got to take my first bite!! Forreal no pun intended, but I INHALED that thing it was so good. [Just confirming for those in the back- THERE WAS NO CANNABIS IN THIS TEA SANDWICH.]
Truffled Egg Salad (Chive, Pain au Lait) – Perfect.
Smoked Mary’s Chicken Salad (Blistered Grapes, Compressed Celery, Croissant) – Smokiest chicken of all time!! Like it had been in the smoker all day. Wait, like since the night before! The chicken pieces were so juicy + tender, almost melts in your mouth. And yall already know I love me some GRAPES and plenty of celery in my chicken salad.
Lobster Roll (Fermented Chili, Shaved Fennel, Brioche) – Absolutely could not get enough of that crunchy fennel!! (sigh) It just adds such an experience to this sandwich. It sliced so thinly but still has a strong bite. I don’t know how he executes that, but…give me more!! And the Huz loved the sweetness of the brioche with it.
Shaved Prime Rib (Horseradish Aioli, Mizuna, Chive Parker House Roll) – Already knew it was gonna be good with all dat arugula hanging out there. It’s like they packed extra for me cuz they knew I am obsessed! We both loved how easy it was to take a bite out that meat. There’s nothing more embarrassing than being on a date, biting a piece of meat (or like sushi with that seaweed boyy), and then it dragging all out your bread!! (covers eyes) None of that with this!
Vanilla Panna Cotta – I did a dance! I usually only take a bite or two first of everything (to make sure I have enough space to try all items offered), buut I took an extra bite of this!! And the Huz said this was his favorite from the sweets level.
Blackberry Pistachio Financier – My favorite texture: chewy and dense. The filling wasn’t too tart either.
Shortly after taking my phone shots of this one, we heard a voice from behind us… ”Is this your Galentine?!” The Executive Chef had come out to meet us!! It was beyond a pleasure to meet Mr. Joseph L. Paire. (Follow him too! here) We complimented him on this new menu and he gave us a bit of background on himself and the thought process to this tea service. WHAT A TREAT. That was so cool!!
Blood Orange Cheesecake – There was a nice bitterness at the end of this, loved that.
Red Velvet Raspberry Roulade – Nice sponge. I really liked the aftertaste this one gave me.
Strawberry Champagne Macaron – This smelled like a perfume! SO flavorful. Sometimes macaron shells are kinda bland…not this at all.
Final thoughts… Okay so, I barely paid attention to my tea! Ha! This menu is IT!! And the whole time I’m smelling my open rosemary biscuit. He turned me into a rosemary-lover over here!! I could just have the scone and biscuits and be good.
Toward the end of our meal, after the last of the other guests had left, my husband + I found ourselves being of the last in the room. It got so quiet and we started awkwardly chuckling! Just then, Chef came back! He took a seat at the table next to us and we spent a good 15-minutes in a private + intimate setting, just talking about the food industry + community. What a brilliant connection! A memorable time for sure. When I say they pulled the red carpet out for us… This experience trying the new menu and their top notch customer service- I tell you, one of the coolest moments yet of the entire Tour. Chef outdid himself with this Galentine’s business! The last time we came was good. This time (sigh) = Excellent. In the history of parTEA with me’s Tea House Tour, I have not changed placement of a Tea Spot on my raTEAngs after a Revisit. But my experience was so elevated here, I am really thinking of raising the Claremont on my list!! Readers/Followers/Tea Lovers: I hope you all find some time in your calendar to dine there. They are offering new tea service themes + brunch menus this year, so keep on the lookout! Stick with us, and we’ll keep you updated here too. Enter your email below yall, don’t miss out!
The Huz + I took a walk to their garden downstairs, and I grabbed a few shots for you. Enjoy!
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!
You already know how deep my love goes for Muir’s Tea Room in Sebastopol! They have been the reigning Number 1 Spot in my raTEAng since we first visited them in September 2018!! They were also first of our Revisits on this Leg of the Tour, when I took my family with me earlier last year in the spring. (And I know yall love them too, cuz I get so many messages + DMs about visiting them!) It should be no surprise then that I happily accepted their invitation to try their new Alice in Wonderland High Tea tea service menu!! The first time in 10 years they are offering whimsical treats and Muir’s style Wonderland decor!
Let me start by saying that my sister kept calling it the ‘stormiest day of the year’ hehe! It was rainy + windy, but nothing that would stop us from our Sister Date. She had been wanting to try Muir’s for the longest, and we were finally getting our time! It takes me a little over half an hour to get to her place, then about another hour to Sebastopol from there. Things were getting cancelled and people were choosing to stay indoors…but we were NOT gonna miss Muir’s!! Our husbands said a prayer for us and we were off! Safely. The drive wasn’t bad at all. We even made it with a good 30-minutes to spare. We continued our convo in the car until our tea time. I checked my phone real quick to see what time it was, when I noticed 10 texts. Oopsies! I was getting messages from them saying that the power had just gone out!!
I replied to see if they were okay or needed any help with anything, and to see what we should do. Then we took a little detour to the Whole Foods down the street for a bathroom break while we waited. Sure enough, I got a voicemail. But as I finished listening to them being ultra apologetic and seeing if we would at least come in for tea and to-go boxes (aren’t they so sweet!?), another incoming text: “The power just came back on!” They were able to seat us and we were thrilled!
ALWAYS VIP treatment when I come for a visit, and they sat us at the cutest little nook. Since I’m a Eating-Outside-Lover, I’m usually on their patio. But (even before I knew it was gonna rain), I told them I’d adore trying an indoor seating this time. We were welcomed in the cutest little nook!! I had to post 2 pictures of it.
Of course, I got up to look around and admire all their new decor for this theme! Mama Owner described it as “Alice Upscale”, which we fully agreed! More whimsical, than cartoony. They did an EXCELLENT JOB executing every bit. My sister kept remarking on how much it felt like we were just hanging out in someone’s home! So comfy, not overdone, just right.
Something new and very cool that they had at each tables were those old school Viewfinders! Remember those?! Inside were slides of well, Alice!! (feeling love emoji)
After a chat with the owner and her daughter (ugh, love them), we got settled in and looked at our tea choices. So many good ones of course! They always have a few back-of-the-menu specials that they throw in, and my sister chose one from there. Something caught my eye on their regular menu that I haven’t tried before, so I got that one.
Elderflower Melon (decaf herbal)- Oh it poured so prettily! This photo does it no justice at all. It was like this soft corally pink hue! ”Super floral,” she says, as this was my sister’s pick. You could definitely taste the elderflower first, then the melon, and it was creamy at the end.
Raspberry Vanilla (rooibos) – I chose good!! Perfect flavors, as per usual. Creamy fruit, my fave.
Alice’s Garden Salad with Muir’s Signature Dressing – The tallest salad you ever did see, right?! Ugh, that salad. For such a simple looking thing, you would not expect so much packed flavor in one bite?? Those edamame + almonds together just worked seamlessly. And that dressing (I wanna cry), again simple dijon-based but paired nicely. I kept saying one more bite to myself so I could save room, but it was so hard to stop! AND something I have to mention that made me just stop dead in my tracks- when our sweet server came to deliver these (plate in one hand, tiny container in the other), she says “Oh and we knew you didn’t like green onions so we didn’t add any to yours, but put them on the side in case.” (eyes big emoji, whiny emoji, crying emoji) SWEETEST SENTIMENT EVERRR!!! They KNEW me!!?! I was dumbfounded, jaw…on the ground, eyes…totally watered. Now THAT is customer service. Mic drop. Periodt. All the things. Unmatched, unmatched.
This tier was packed to capacity!! The fullest and most attractive tier! I could barely contain my whiny excitement and absolutely could not wait to try everything!!
White Rabbit’s Cucumber & Chive Tea Sandwich – They never miss with their cucumber. Buttery, perfect crunch, awesome ratio. I will never understand how they make their plant-based stuff taste like BUTTER!? My sister + I could not get enough.
A tiny detail but I have to mention, and I don’t have its own picture… Our waters came with a cut strawberry on the rim. Now it wasn’t strawberry-infused water. However, because of where it’s placed- as you take a sip, you are getting all of that strawberry scented goodness! It was an experience for sure. Simplicity that felt like luxury.
Cheshire Cat’s “Sausage” and Roasted Pepper Finger Sandwich – Favorite item on this tea service, hands down. They made their version of In-N-Out sauce. My sister, after finishing hers, “I don’t even like In-N-Out sauce.” Hahah! Oh and it was far from a ‘finger sandwich’, that was a hearty offering! The crostini had a nice crunchy bite, without it scratching up your mouth. And those “sausages” legit taste like a sausage. Magic, I’m tellin you.
The Blue Caterpillar’s Mushroom Tart – Very clever, Muir’s! Okay, I see you!! I can picture that scene now! This was pastry-heavy (sister agreed), which we both loved that part. She said it was “not hard, really tender.” It was salty, but welcome.
Down the Rabbit Hole Spiral Pesto Puff Pastry – Again, very creative! Mama Owner says her + her daughter worked hard to perfect this menu + theme. It was well thought out and it shows. Quoting my sister for this one: “Super buttery, really good pastry again, and very cheesy tasting.” She also added “I haven’t tasted anything vegan yet!?” Which she has tried tons of vegan food, so she knows her stuff. Muir’s said that was the best compliment.
March Hare Artichoke Heart & Hearts of Palm Medley Tea Sandwich – If my memory serves me right, this is the first time ever having hearts of palm on a tea service and I don’t know why more tea rooms don’t use it!? I love hearts of palm!! My daughter + I love having it even as just a snack! This sandwich was so complex. It was tangy, a little mushy, nice heat in the back (you could take it. If I could take it, you could take it). Loved the crunch of that lettuce, and the bread was so soft.
Hatter’s Always Tea Time Scone with imported English Tiptree Raspberry Preserves & “Clotted Cream” – I’m sure I’m repeating myself from old blog posts of theirs, but their scone is really superior. The crispiest edges, fluffy insides, and perfect savory/sweet flavor. Longtime readers know this: whenever I see a tiny JAR of preserves, you already have my heart. Hehe. And I wish I got a picture of it… Coolest thing. They have a little stand by their front door with a basket of empties and a sign that says ‘free, please take what you need’. What an awesome way to recycle and share with the community!
Queen of Hearts Cherry Jammy Dodger – The jam was not overpowering and the pastry was soo chewy. I couldn’t stop nibbling at this, while having slices of the juiciest cantaloupe!
THANK YOU FOR HANGING OUT WITH US ON THE BLOG AND READING ABOUT THEIR NEW MENU! AS A GIFT FROM parTEA with me + Muir’s Tea Room, MENTION THE WORD “UNBIRTHDAY” AT YOUR NEXT VISIT AND ENJOY A FREE TREAT FROM MUIR’S!! (This offer expires September 30, 2024)
The Duchess’s Fresh Peppermint Patty – A nice surprise! This melts in your mouth! Only took a bite so I could save the rest of the Huz, cuz this is his favorite. When I took it home and he had it, he says, “Man, that was better than the original.” You heard it here, Muir’s!!
Tweedledum and Tweedledee Swirl Cupcake – The moistest!! Such a good bite to it. Not too sweet and not too much frosting, which was whipped nicely.
Muir’s Tea Room really outdid themselves this time. (as per ushe) The attention to detail with every bit: the decor, the food, the titles of the food… Mom + Friend, high fives!! Thank you for having us. You showed my sister + I a TOP TIME. She kept raving about how outstanding the service was. Not only do you feel like you’re at family’s house…but you actually feel like family!! Readers + Followers + Social Media Friends- you guys ask me about this place all the time! If you’re waiting for a time to go, it’s NOW!! Pay them a visit, enjoy their new Alice in Wonderland High Tea menu, tell them I said hi, and get your FREE TREAT!!! You have until March 25, 2024 to experience this new theme. Don’t miss out! Stop by their hard-not-to-buy-anything gift shop too!
To my Amazing Sister, thank you for being my date. Thank you for driving us safely through the rain and being one of very FEW I get to let my belly hang out with. I always appreciate our sister time. I feel so safe, so validated, so seen, so understood. Ending this post with such a great shot she took of this original top hat. She’s mad creative too, guys. I’m older than her, but I def wanna be her when I grow up! See you soon Tea Lovers!!
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!
We are finishing the 3rd Leg of this Tour strong yall!!
We have visited TWELVE New Spots, squeezed-in THREE additional, and still have a possibility of visiting ONE more new one this month!! We did a Revisit in the Spring of this year, and are now ending the Tour with the remaining FIVE Revisits! That’s a lot of tea yall!! That’s TWENTY-ONE (maybe 22) Afternoon Tea Spots for the 3rd Leg of parTEA with me’s California Tea House Tour, from February 2023 to May 2024. Our fullest and longest one to date!
I’m in the hat! [I don’t like to put my friend’s faces on my posts]
Also, here’s a little teaser on what’s going on for Leg 4!!!
But don’t worry- during my time off, I will still be going to Tea and sharing some things! Don’t forget to follow us on all the social media platforms (you’ll find links to each below), I post a little something different on each one. Thankful for all our Day One’s. (100 emoji here) Thank you to all those who CONSISTENTLY interact with our posts!! I see each and every one of you. And of course, a humongous ~THANK YOU~ to all who donate. I can’t even gather all the emotions to explain all of what that means to me. If you are moved to help us on the Tour, there is a form below. Check back to see if we made it to the Spot that is supposed to start serving afternoon tea this month… (cheesy emoji smile)
One-Time
Monthly
Yearly
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!
Hi TEAcups! (when we were operating our old tea company, we used to call our Supporters “TEAcups” hehe)
It’s been a fun-filled + PACKED first half of the Tour already!! Lots of squeezing in last-minute visits and a good amount of off-tour tea visits as well! (sweat bead emoji) You know how I do- I will try to fit it in and be the first to review these places so you don’t have to. So in true parTEA with me form, I have managed to add TWO new Afternoon Tea Spots to visit on this Leg!!! Stay tuned for those!
And I know I sound like a broken record (but I don’t care)… Just wanted to thank all of you for continuing to come back and read about all these new Afternoon Tea Spots, and even reading about the old ones! I see each + every view, and I love looking at all the different countries you all are from! Introduce yourself, leave where you’re reading our Blog at in the comments!! I would love to know! And to those who have, who are, and who will donate– ugh, you guys. You guys help make this possible so so much!!! There is such an appreciation I have for you…there aren’t words invented yet to explain just how much. (100 emoji) Soo, follow us on all the things! I post differently on each one, so our content will keep you on your toes! I’m rambling now, so I better finish this post! Talk to yall soon!!
One-Time
Monthly
Yearly
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 