The 4 Best Tea Places in Sacramento

According to recent research, Sacramento has over 360 places to enjoy a cup of tea. While there is an abundance of options, not all tea establishments offer the same quality.

In this article, we will explore the top 4 tea spots in the city. We won’t limit ourselves to traditional tea houses. We’ll also highlight regular cafes and even coffee houses where you can enjoy an exceptional cup of tea.

1. Classy Hippie Tea Co

Classy Hippie Tea Co., founded in 2012 by Leo Hickman, is an urban tea room located in the Oak Park neighborhood of Sacramento. This establishment has carved a niche for itself by blending a traditional tea room experience with a community-centric approach.

At the core of Classy Hippie Tea Co. is a diverse and carefully selected tea menu. Patrons can find a variety of teas, ranging from the classic Earl Grey Crème to more inventive blends like Vanilla Horchata Tea Latte. Each tea is chosen for its distinct flavor and aroma, catering to both traditional tea enthusiasts and those seeking new experiences.

Beyond tea, the cafe also offers a range of food items and coffee, providing options for different tastes. The food menu, though not as extensive as the tea selection, includes items like spicy potato flatbread and various breakfast sandwiches. These offerings are designed to complement the tea and coffee.

The ambiance of Classy Hippie Tea Co. reflects a commitment to local culture and art. The space serves not only as a tea room but also as a venue for local art and community events, including open mic nights and tea tasting sessions. This aspect of the cafe underscores its role as a community gathering space in Oak Park.

In terms of decor and atmosphere, Classy Hippie Tea Co. maintains a balance between a comfortable, welcoming space and a spot for engaging community interaction. The cafe’s commitment to organic sourcing and sustainability is also evident in its menu choices and business practices.

Overall, Classy Hippie Tea Co. in Sacramento’s Oak Park offers a unique setting for tea lovers and those interested in a community-focused cafe experience. The tea selection remains a highlight, complemented by a modest food menu and a commitment to local art and events.

Pros

• Variety of delicious teas and coffees.
• Friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
• High-quality food with a diverse menu.
• Unique and pleasant ambiance.
• Owner’s personal engagement and hospitality.
• Community-focused space with events and local art.
• Clean and well-maintained premises.

Cons

• Couldn’t find any.

Location: 3200 Broadway, Sacramento, CA 95817

2. The Tea Nook

The Tea Nook in Lincoln, California, is a Victorian-style tearoom known for its high tea service. This small, cozy venue offers a selection of over 20 loose leaf teas, emphasizing variety and quality. The tea is accompanied by homemade scones, sandwiches, and pastries, all prepared in-house.

The tearoom’s interior reflects its Victorian theme, providing a quiet, quaint atmosphere suitable for intimate gatherings or private parties of up to 12 guests. The staff at The Tea Nook are known for their friendly service, contributing to the overall pleasant experience.

Importantly, The Tea Nook accommodates various dietary preferences, including gluten-free and vegetarian options, ensuring that all guests can partake in the high tea experience. This attention to inclusivity is a notable aspect of the tearoom.

As a locally-owned establishment, The Tea Nook is a reflection of personal commitment and community engagement, offering a unique experience in Lincoln. It serves as a venue for both special occasions and casual visits for those interested in enjoying a traditional high tea in a Victorian setting.

Pros

• Delicious food, with a variety of tasty options.
• A wide selection of teas.
• Quaint and charming ambiance, creating a pleasant atmosphere.
• Excellent customer service.
• Accommodates various dietary restrictions effectively.

Cons

• Challenges in making reservations or receiving timely responses.
• Limited seating capacity, which may affect availability.

Location: 668 5th St, Lincoln, CA 95648

3. The Mill

The Mill, situated in Sacramento’s city center, offers a calm and understated atmosphere, making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors. This café distinguishes itself with a focus on crafting most of its menu in-house, reflecting a commitment to freshness and quality.

Tea enthusiasts will find a notable selection at The Mill, where the variety ranges from classic peppermint to the more nuanced white peony and robust matcha. These teas, along with the option for locally sourced plant-based milks like Vanilla Cashew Milk, cater to a range of preferences and dietary needs.

Coffee lovers are also well-served here, with The Mill’s own Bouquet Coffee Roasters providing a carefully chosen and roasted selection since 2017. This attention to detail is evident in the flavor and quality of the coffee served.

A standout on the menu is the yeasted waffle, a unique recipe that’s freshly prepared each day. Available until midday in a plated form and as a convenient ‘to-go’ option with powdered sugar until 3 PM, these waffles have become a local favorite. The café also offers homemade syrups for their lattes, with options like Vanilla Bean Latte and seasonal varieties adding to the diverse menu.

The interior of The Mill combines rustic elements with a modern touch, offering a comfortable space for relaxation or work. Its outdoor seating provides an alternative for those who prefer the outdoors, especially in good weather.

Located in a bustling part of the city, The Mill is a reflection of Sacramento’s café culture, offering a space where quality food and drinks can be enjoyed in a setting that is both welcoming and unassuming.

Pros

• Delicious waffles
• High-quality coffee with varied flavors and preparation styles
• Wide selection of teas for non-coffee drinkers
• Friendly and attentive staff providing excellent service
• Inviting ambiance and decor creates a pleasant environment
• Suitable for remote work or studying due to the conducive environment
• Cleanliness
• Availability of outdoor seating, especially favorable for pet owners

Cons

• Limited parking in the area
• Some menu items, like waffles, lack in size and texture
• Noise levels can be high when the cafe is crowded

Location: 1827 I St, Sacramento, CA 95811

4. Tea List

Tea List, established in 2009, is a cafe located in Davis, California, known for its focus on tea and related offerings. Operating from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10:30 AM and 4:00 PM, the cafe provides afternoon and high tea services.

The afternoon tea, priced at $24.95 per person, includes a choice of tea, a scone with cream and fruit preserves, assorted small tea sandwiches, a pastry, and fresh fruit. The high tea, at $34.95 per person, offers a similar selection but with a greater variety of tea sandwiches and pastries.

The selection of teas at Tea List caters to a wide range of preferences, encompassing traditional black teas, herbal infusions, and other varieties. The food menu, designed to complement the teas, features a range of scones, sandwiches, pastries, and fruits.

Tea List’s setting allows for both indoor and outdoor seating, accommodating different preferences for ambiance. The indoor area offers a more enclosed and intimate environment, while the outdoor seating provides an open-air experience.

For groups of three or more, the cafe recommends making reservations 24 hours in advance. This policy is in place to manage the seating and service efficiently, ensuring that guests have a comfortable experience.

In summary, Tea List offers a focused tea experience in Davis, with an array of teas and accompanying food items. The cafe provides a choice of settings for enjoying these offerings and recommends reservations for larger groups to facilitate better service.

Pros

• Excellent food and tea quality.
• Charming ambiance, including the option for indoor and outdoor seating.
• Good service.
• Special experience, especially the Queen’s tea.
• Suitable for all ages, making it a great place for visitors from various age groups.

Cons

• Seating issues, including problems with seating preferences like being seated outside despite indoor requests.
• Limited menu items.
• Facility inconveniences such as bathrooms being far away and lack of indoor heating.

Location: 222 D St, Ste 3, Davis, CA 95616