5 places to sip tea in San Francisco

A frilly and fun space with mismatched tea sets, linens, and vintage furnishings. In fact, it used to be an antique shop and has since evolved into the tearoom it is now. They also have a shop across the street with antique serving pieces and tea blends for purchase to host your own gathering.

A minimally designed gallery and tasting room with rare, high-quality tea, and teaware made by artisans in China and Taiwan. Guests are invited to sit and enjoy a freshly brewed cup. Porcelain jars contain a rotating selection of teas discovered by the shop owner during his travels.

Atop the Neiman Marcus department store is this elegant restaurant situated under a stained-glass dome with a view of Union Square. They’re open daily from 11 am to 4 or 5 pm for lunch and a beautiful afternoon tea service. The latter has two seatings starting at 3 pm.

This is the city’s first premium matcha cafe serving lattes, cold brews and sweets infused with the fine green tea powder from the Kyoto region of Japan. For the full dining experience, hearty Japanese comfort dishes, like the katsu sando, are available. They’ve partnered with SF’s best bakeshops to create their pastries and desserts.

This may be the brightest, most bloomfilled spot for breakfast and lunch in SF. Not only in decor, but also in how each plate and drink is presented. For the decadent tea service for two (110 dollars), a 48-hour advance reservation is required. Book ahead, as it is not available to order on the menu.