2012 has turned over a new leaf for me. I was an avid coffee drinker and now I have embraced the world of tea. I am always searching for the best cup of tea. Here are some spots in Los Angeles to grab the perfect spot of tea:
Tres by José Andrés
For $32/person, munch on exotic eats like caviar steamed buns, savory beet macarons with goat cheese filling and chocolate pop rocks. The restaurant is pretty exotic itself with AK-47 standing lamps and glass stag heads. Order up English Breakfast tea or add a twist and get Nobo Whole Fruit, Hojicha. SLS Hotel, 465 S La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles; 310.246.5551
Hotel Bel-Air
This newly renovated hotel houses Wolfgang Puck’s menu full of deliciousness to go perfectly with your afternoon tea. Indulge in black truffle grilled cheese, blue crab rolls and flaky Viennese pastries. Snag a spot by the fireplace or a private booth on the terrace overlooking a beautiful garden. 701 Stone Canyon Rd., Los Angeles; 310.909.1644
Rose Garden Tea Room
Munch on a dainty spread of scones, finger sandwiches, and sweets like brownies, lemon bars. The relaxed tearoom fills up quickly, so reserve your spot at least two weeks in advance. The Tea and Tour, a private 90-minute garden journey followed by a full tea service is $60/person splurge. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino; 626.683.8131
Jin Patisserie
Order up cake like Guanaja chocolate (with cherry custard, pistachio and almond dacquoise with fresh raspberries) at Abbot Kinney’s pastry boutique/outdoor tea garden. Steeped in purified water, the blends come from French company Theodor and include flavors like African Breakfast, Rouge Revolution and Je Ne Sais Quoi. 5741 Buckingham Pkwy, Culver City, 90230; 310.399.8801
The Peninsula Beverly Hills
The white-glove service at this sophisticated hotel serves up tea and a meal of finger sandwiches (egg salad, smoked salmon), scones with Devonshire cream, and champagne and caviar. 9882 S Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills; 310.975.2736
