The 7 Best Tea Places in San Jose

According to recent research, San Jose has over 400 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 7 tea spots in the San Jose area. 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. Lisa’s Tea Treasures

Lisa’s Tea Treasures, located in Campbell, CA, has been serving its community since 1997. After a relocation journey following their initial two decades in the Pruneyard, they have re-established themselves in the area, continuing their tradition of offering afternoon tea.

This tea house presents a variety of teas, with options ranging from fruity blends like the Summer Regatta Tea, a mix of peach and strawberry, to more traditional selections such as My Lady’s Respite and Louis XIV’s Favorite. Seasonal teas, including the Queen Victoria cream tea and blackberry Jasmine, are also part of their rotating menu, catering to various preferences.

The food at Lisa’s Tea Treasures complements the tea offerings. The menu includes items like pumpkin scones and butternut squash soup, as well as a selection of tea sandwiches. Desserts, such as candied ginger scones and tiramisu, are also available, adding a sweet note to the tea experience.

The cafe’s atmosphere is cozy, with a decor that aims to create a welcoming environment for its guests. The staff at Lisa’s Tea Treasures are known for their attentive service, often providing recommendations and accommodating special dietary needs.

Lisa’s Tea Treasures is a place for those in Campbell looking to enjoy a traditional tea experience. While reservations are recommended due to its popularity, the establishment strives to be a welcoming spot for both special occasions and casual visits.

Pros

• Cozy and welcoming ambiance.
• Wide variety of tea selections.
• Delicious food, especially scones and desserts.
• Superb customer service.
• Unique and enjoyable tea experiences.
• Customizable menu options for dietary needs.

Cons

• Service can sometimes be slow or inattentive.
• Food portions may be perceived as small or not worth the price.
• Limited tea refills.
• Reservations are necessary due to high demand.

Location: 2305 S Winchester Blvd, Ste 110, Campbell, CA 95008

2. Coffee & Water Lab

Located in San Jose, Coffee & Water Lab is a relatively new establishment that opened its doors in 2021. This cafe has quickly become known for its focus on quality beverages, with a particular emphasis on tea.

The interior of Coffee & Water Lab is bright and spacious, often frequented by a diverse clientele, including students, professionals, and casual visitors. The cafe’s ambiance strikes a balance between modern and inviting, making it a suitable spot for both work and relaxation.

At the heart of the menu are the tea offerings, which showcase the cafe’s commitment to innovative and quality drinks. The lychee mojito tea granita is a popular choice among patrons, known for its refreshing taste and slushy texture, rich in lychee flavor. Other tea-based drinks, like the honey black sesame latte and the strawberry milk tea granita, also receive attention for their unique blends of ingredients.

In addition to beverages, Coffee & Water Lab serves a variety of snacks and light meals. Options range from savory items like bacon and egg toast to sweeter choices such as blueberry mascarpone toast and the mochi waffle pop.

Situated in the Mitsuwa Market, the cafe benefits from its convenient location. It’s particularly noted for its use of single-origin coffee beans, roasted in-house, and its commitment to using pristine water and advanced beverage technology in crafting its drinks. While the focus is often on the tea and coffee, the cafe provides a welcoming environment for those seeking a place to enjoy a drink, work, or engage in conversation. Coffee & Water Lab represents a modern twist on the traditional cafe experience in the San Jose area.

Pros

• Efficient service with quick order fulfillment, especially for online orders.
• Unique and flavorful drinks like the lychee mojito tea granita and honey black sesame latte.
• Good food options include popular items such as bacon and egg toast and blueberry mascarpone toast.
• Aesthetic and clean environment, creating a pleasant atmosphere.
• Friendly staff, known for their helpfulness and courteous service.

Cons

• Limited seating availability, especially during busy hours.

Location: 603 Saratoga Ave, Ste 40, San Jose, CA 95129

3. Nirvana Soul

Nirvana Soul, located in Downtown San Jose with an additional presence in Cupertino, is a coffee and tea shop established in 2020. It was co-founded by sisters Jeronica and Be’Anka, aiming to create a space that merges high-quality beverages with community engagement. The cafe also features a Roastery in North San Jose.

This establishment offers a unique atmosphere that combines a vibrant setting with a focus on inclusivity. The cafe is known for hosting events such as open mics and local art displays, fostering a sense of community among its patrons.

While coffee is a staple at Nirvana Soul, the tea offerings are particularly noteworthy. The tea menu features a variety of flavors, catering to a range of tastes and preferences. Alongside their beverages, the cafe serves an array of fresh waffles with flavors like chorizo con queso and churro, as well as pastries delivered daily from The French Spot.

The layout of Nirvana Soul includes a two-story space, providing customers with options for different experiences. The upstairs area offers a quieter environment, suitable for work or relaxation. The ground floor tends to have a more dynamic and social atmosphere.

Nirvana Soul in Downtown San Jose offers a combination of quality coffee and tea, food options, and a community-focused environment. Its commitment to creating a welcoming space is reflected in its regular events and the variety of experiences it offers to its visitors.

Pros

• Wide selection of drinks.
• Friendly and engaging staff.
• Unique and tasty food options, especially waffles.
• Comfortable and spacious seating, including a second level.
• Diverse and enjoyable events like open mics.
• Vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
• Quality and flavorful coffee.
• Offers both coffee and tea options.
• Artistic and community-oriented environment.

Cons

• Noise levels can be high sometimes.

Location: 315 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113

4. Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley

The Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley, located in East Palo Alto, offers a dining experience that includes contemporary Californian cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, including dry-aged grilled meats, and overlooks the hotel’s outdoor garden and terrace.

A significant offering of the hotel is its afternoon tea service. This service includes a range of both hot and cold brew teas. The selection spans traditional flavors to more unique blends, catering to a variety of tastes. Alongside the tea, guests can enjoy an assortment of savory and sweet items, such as pastries, bread, and crackers, made with ingredients like orange marmalade and whipped butter.

The High Tea experience at the Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley is designed to balance savory and sweet flavors, offering guests a diverse range of food choices. The setting in the hotel lobby accommodates different group sizes, aiming to provide a comfortable yet elegant atmosphere.

Staff at the Four Seasons are noted for their professionalism, contributing to the overall experience of the guests. The afternoon tea service at the Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley is an option for those looking for a dining experience in the area that combines a variety of tea selections with a range of accompanying snacks.

Pros

• High-quality food and ingredients.
• Excellent service and staff professionalism.
• Variety of tea and food options.
• Customization for dietary preferences.

Cons

• Some food items may be stale or lack freshness.
• High prices for what is offered.
• Limited indoor lounge areas.

Location: 2050 University Ave, East Palo Alto, CA 94303

5. K Cafe Patisserie & Tea House

K Café Patisserie & Tea House, situated in the Bay Area of California, merges Asian and French culinary styles in a tea house setting. This establishment caters to a diverse clientele, ranging from those looking for a leisurely brunch to tea aficionados. The cafe places a significant emphasis on its tea selection, offering a variety of robust and nuanced flavors.

While teas are a central feature of K Café, its menu also includes brunch items that combine elements of Asian and French cuisine. Popular dishes include the Wagyu beef egg muffin and a fusion breakfast, which consists of a croissant, sausage, fried chicken, a poached egg, and soy garlic fries. Additionally, the cafe offers a combo rice platter with options like grilled shrimp and short ribs.

The cafe’s interior is decorated with floral arrangements, contributing to a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. Due to its location in a busy area, patrons might encounter parking challenges, which is something to consider when planning a visit.

K Café Patisserie & Tea House provides a range of tea selections and a fusion menu in a comfortable setting, suited for those who appreciate a blend of Asian and French flavors in a casual environment.

Pros

• Delicious food.
• Attractive ambiance.
• Good service.

Cons

• Parking difficulties, often requiring visitors to park on the street and walk.
• High prices.
• Crowded and busy atmosphere, which can detract from the overall experience.

Location: 923 S Bascom Ave, San Jose, CA 95128

6. Tea Time

Tea Time, established in 2006 in Palo Alto, offers a serene setting for tea enthusiasts to explore an extensive selection of over 120 high-quality loose leaf teas from around the globe. This variety caters to a range of preferences, from traditional staples like English Breakfast to unique blends.

The cafe’s decor is thoughtfully designed, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can choose between the indoor seating, which provides a cozy environment, or the outdoor area for a more open setting.

A key feature of Tea Time is its afternoon and high tea services. These include tiered servings of small bites such as sandwiches and scones accompanied by homemade Devonshire cream, along with a selection of pastries. The menu items are crafted to complement the range of teas offered.

In addition to serving tea, Tea Time hosts various events and classes, including tea and food pairing sessions. These offerings provide an educational aspect to the tea-drinking experience.

The staff at Tea Time, including the owner, are known for their knowledge of tea and friendly service, contributing to the cafe’s welcoming ambiance.

While Tea Time is a popular spot for tea lovers, it’s important to note that it reflects the typical prices and offerings of specialty cafes in Palo Alto. It’s a place suited for those interested in exploring a wide range of teas and experiencing a traditional tea service in a relaxed setting.

Pros

• Great tea selection with a variety of quality options.
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff, providing warm and attentive service.
• Pleasant ambiance, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
• High-quality food, especially the high tea offerings.

Cons

• High prices for the quality and quantity of food and tea.
• Parking issues, with difficulty in finding parking near the establishment.

Location: 542 Ramona St, Palo Alto, CA 94301

7. Tyme For Tea & Co

Tyme For Tea & Co, located in the old town area of Niles in Fremont, provides a traditional high tea experience. This tea house, known for its array of fine tea sets and a comfortable dining area, requires reservations, particularly due to its popularity and limited seating.

At the heart of their menu is a diverse selection of teas, ranging from classic options like English Breakfast and Earl Grey to more unique flavors such as Belgian Chocolate and Honey Jackfruit. These teas are available in both caffeinated and decaffeinated varieties, ensuring there’s a choice for every preference. Each tea is served in a pot, which typically serves about 4-5 cups.

The cafe’s food offerings include three main set options: a champagne-inclusive set, the scone-centered “Victorian” set, and a lighter option featuring fruit. Accompanying these sets are various sandwiches, pastries, and scones. The cucumber and tuna sandwiches, artichoke swirl pastries, and warm scones served with crème fraîche, raspberry preserves, and lemon curd are some of the items on the menu. Desserts like cheesecake, shortbread cookies, and assorted cake bites are also available.

The ambiance of the cafe varies with the seasons, as the decor is updated to reflect different times of the year. Additionally, there is a shop within the cafe where customers can browse and purchase tea-related items, such as tea sets and ceramics.

Situated in the Niles neighborhood for over two decades, Tyme For Tea & Co offers an experience that combines elements of Victorian charm with a variety of tea selections, appealing to those interested in a classic high tea setting.

Pros

• Charming and visually appealing atmosphere, with Victorian aesthetics.
• Offers a variety of teas and food, providing a diverse and enjoyable tasting experience.
• Good for photo opportunities due to the decorative ambiance.
• Offers takeout options for convenience.

Cons

• Limited options for tea selection, particularly on weekends.

Location: 37501 Niles Blvd, Fremont, CA 94536