San FranCelia

So the chill of summer is upon us here in the City, and while I love living here, between the months of June and August, I become jealous of all the other people in the Bay Area that aren’t directly under a blanket of fog – so the North, South, and East Bay

[caption id="attachment_253" align="alignright" width="189" caption="Samovar Tea Lounge"][/caption]

populations respectively.  In my attempt to enjoy the late evening light, I end up usually donning a scarf and giant sweatshirt that thankfully keeps my hands warm, as well, and going for walks in the different neighborhoods.  I love being outdoors to exercise, so I won’t let the cold ruin my 9pm light!  While this kind of weather can take it’s toll, there are ways to enjoy the cold, I’ve found.  One place I love is Samovar Tea Lounge, which helps take away the doldrums of the cold with a massive variety of fresh and unique teas and a loungy ambiance that brings the warmth.  Samovar has several locations around San Francisco, including their most popular location above Yerba Buena Gardens with a gorgeous patio and view of Downtown, but my favorite one is in the Castro/Mission Valley location.  It’s kind of hidden away, with nonchalant local stores nearby and houses to either side.  However, when you enter, you feel as if you’ve entered a warm and comfortable desert lounge with large bench-like seating and pillows, and walls made out of bamboo and art.  There is a wall of tea to choose from, and a tea menu longer than most restaurant menus to tell you about each one.   As you sit down, the aroma of flavored and black teas fill the air, with a slight hint of the delicious food goodies their extensive food menu offers.  My tea of choice is their ‘Monkey Picked Iron Goddess of Mercy Tea’, which not only is a deliciously light Oolong blend, but also boasts the ability to dissolve my issues, whatever those may be.  Hey… I’ll take it.  I paired this with their Grilled Portabella & Onion Sandwich that comes with a savory Gruyere cheese recently, and let me tell you, it was so tasty!  It’s such a peaceful spot, that the simple act of drinking tea brings a sense of calm. 

 

Samovar’s slogan is ‘Practice Peace.  Drink Tea.’, and it truly is a place that is relaxed  and inviting.  Many people are there in groups whether it’s for a class project or a relaxed night with friends.  Others are alone with their laptops, working, which shows you the atmosphere.  When groups and laptop junkies are in coexistence and both happy about it, it’s a rare find.  As soon as the warmth from the hot tea hits my lips, the chill of the summer (oh the irony – again it amazes me) instantly alters into a place that’s tranquil, exotic, and best of all, warm. 

This is a wonderful spot to warm you up on these cold San Francisco days and nights.  Although the weather is slightly depressing (especially when you see all the ads on TV for sunscreen), the cold can bring about great things.  So go on… practice peace, and drink some tea already.

Peace and love Xo

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