Most of what everyone else has been saying pretty much sums it up. I’m originally from the bay area but not sure when Samovar starting popping up in SF. I recently went by this location (after finding out about Samovar on steepster!) and fell in love the moment I saw it. It is absolutely gorgeous, and as another reviewer mentioned, a surprising industrial oasis. I’ve been to the raised pavilion that its situated in before, and its always been a nice little area to walk around in, but now you can sit outside (I was also lucky to go on a picture-perfect SF day), sip on amazing loose leaf tea, and peace out from all the craziness around you. Tea meditation.
When I was there I splurged on their morrocan tea service, where they have a really nice traditional tea set and prepare the tea for you at your table, plus it comes with their tea snacks dish. A bit pricey but totally worth it. Best part was they didn’t even bother me once for sitting there for a solid 2+ hours, just me, my friend, and our tea. This may have been because it wasn’t a particularly packed day (although there were plenty of customers still no doubt) but its great that the staff understands what you’re doing and why you’re there, because they love it the same way you do.
Tea Heaven.
great college study cafe, and while tea certainly isn’t their main headliner (apparently their coffee is good but I don’t drink coffee so I wouldn’t know) they do happen to have a few select teas that are great and are big about showcasing new/for-benefit/local foods and drink products, which often include smaller company or unique teas. They also sometimes do tastings from these companies they’re showcasing, so they have done some tea tastings in the past.
