Gold Leaf Spice &amp; Teas

If you haven't been here in awhile, it's time to check it out! Long-time staples Patria and…read moreDubber's are still here with consistent food fare and friendly service. The Beerded Bean and Cherry Bean are quality coffee shops, each with their own unique character and vibe. But new additions are here. Check out Karnival next to Maya Cinema for light fare and creative drinks. Mangia will seem familiar because the owners had manned Gino's for a good two decades before selling it and starting over with Mangia. Alvarado on Main is Alvarado Street Brewery's latest venue in an old bank. It's always popping. Brand new additions are Heirloom Pizza, still set to open this coming Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023 and Reba's is coming soon (a baking shop with long-time fans at Crossroads). There's too many to mention but don't forget about old favorites like Dudley's and Michael's Grill.

Old town Salinas is your typical western city that you find in the movies with a modern touch. It…read moreonce was a bustling area to travel too if you came to Salinas but with the invention of strip malls and indoor malls this place has become a dead zone. They have great areas to hang out though. Maya cinemas and the food places around the 100 block of old town is great. Fox theater and 201 Main are great additions too. Patrias is a wonderful German food place. There is a Mexican food spot next to the fox theater which is great also. Additionally, Dudley's is a great diner. The coffee places are awesome to meet great locals. Other than that, it's sort dead and go in the mornings to mid afternoons because in the evenings the place goes dry. The night life at Dubbers and 201 Main are hot in the weekends. I can't forget the great beer places!!! They are all over downtown too

;)

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Farmers market

McCormick & Co

3.0

(2 reviews)

2.3 mi

since i was a baby i have always loved herbs and spices. i can definitely say i grew up around…read moremccormick spices. my dad worked for the company growing up and i did as well in my early 20's. it's so very nice to have had and still have the connections to these products because spices ain't cheap these days. my families homes are stocked full of spice racks and cupboards of spices and even have shelves of antique mccormick schilling tins and other collectibles. everything i cook i use mccormick products. i'm sooo hooked on flavor your jaw would drop when you see how much i use for any given meal. years ago i took a tour of this salinas plant and i fell even more in love. the aroma in the air was heavenly and it made me sneeze alot but it was worth it. it's really great to see all the care they take to ensure a great quality for it's product. oh here's a little something i learned. the spices that fall to the ground or anywhere else but the container get sold to THE OTHER GUYS!! yup you want the best quality you must go with mccormick!

This is probably the worst place to try to get a job. I had filled an application for employment. I…read morehad gotten an interview a couple weeks ago. It all sounded good and that they were going to call me with an offer in 3 to 5 days. But, no call, their phone numbers don't work, nothing. Its been about 2 weeks. So I got another job they hired me on the spot. I recommend no one apply there you will be very disappointed. If I could I would give this company negative stars.

MY ANTIQUE SPICE COLLECTION

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Nature's Sunshine

Great shop! It has a lot of good brands of supplements and vitamins and it's very close to my home…read morewhich is even more exciting. There aren't that many vitamin and supplement stores near by with a large selection. My only complaint is that a lot of the same brand supplements aren't in alphabetical order and that makes it a little difficult to scan for something specific.

From the owner: We strive to offer the best Indigenous, Mexican, Latin American, and Ayurveda herbal supplements,…read moreteas, powders, medicinal plants, extracts and vitamins.

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Picked these up today.

Pezzini Farms

My husband and I were driving back from Big Sur and we were going to go to giant artichoke…read more However, I saw signs that said Pezzini farms and advertised all what they had. I immediately had my husband take that exit and check it out. When I saw artichokes artichokes and more artichokes,, I was sold. I went there to look and see what they had. We found so many amazing items! We purchased pasta sauce, artichoke salsa, artichoke focaccia, bread, artichoke bread, artichoke sweet bread, like banana bread, but with artichokes, we bought actual artichokes, artichoke pizza, and mushroom pizza, frozen deep-fried artichokes, a Japanese black watermelon, a cactus plant, artichoke raviolis, and some amazing soft English muffins. Very unique. I know it was a lot, but we don't live close by so we wanted to stock up. What I really like about this place is the friendly people there especially Sara and there was another gal that unfortunately I didn't get her name and the fact that all the artichoke items are from the artichoke fields there and they support local/family bakers and businesses. We also went to the "Choke Coach" it was recommended by Sara. It was on the premises and it was a food truck that primarily sold artichoke related items. I ordered the three artichoke tacos, which were amazing and the grilled artichokes with a lime cilantro dip. Very yummy! My husband ordered a bratwurst sandwich. The people working there, Maria and Bety we're very friendly and great cooks and customer service I was so glad we made that turn off the freeway! This place is a true gem. They also have cornhole to play while you're waiting for your food or just want to enjoy some fun for a minute. There was a cute, big chair for a Kodak moment

I happen to see this place while I was looking for somewhere to stop on our way home from Monterey…read more I wanted big artichokes, but they're not quite in season, so we bought smaller ones. They have such an assortment of just about everything! We bought some cheese, salami and some bakery items. Such a well organized and clean place. I could have spent $1000.00 in there ! While checking out, out the cashier Mary had us laughing about picking the crops(artichokes) , her grown kids, school and college. She had my granddaughters laughing. We will definitely stop there again! There is also a small truck selling Elote corn and a few other items. If you're nearby, please stop and check this place out! Say Hi to Mary. She has been there 30 years.

Pepper Plant Seasoning Good on everything

Artichoke cupcake cross-section Very good! try it :)

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Artichoke Cupcake ($5)

Ron's Meat Market

3.2

(5 reviews)

1.8 mi

While living here, i always shopped here just for the meats. I found them to have the freshest…read moremeats in town, and always great prices. Most often i would bbq my meats on my grill, but at times i would try something different and they were always so helpful in telling me how best to prepare something. So if you are shopping just for meat, i highly recommend this place.

I am speaking for the meat market. I have purchased meat here and they have great deal on their…read moremeat. The meat is seasoned well asada beef, asada chicken,and pork. This last time I was going to purchase 3lbs of seasoned beef and 3 of seasoned chicken. These were posed with a sign saying 10lbs for 50$ taking 3lbs i figured cost was 15$ for Asada and 15 for chicken. when I went the register it showed 29.99 I asked why they said if you dont get the special then you pay full price. I left them with their meat I am glad as I stood waiting for that total watching 3 larg flys in the meat case. Sadly I won't be shopping for my meats there anymore.

Great meat sold here!

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MAXFIT Market Salinas

PB2 smoothie. While there I noted their pre-made meals. I lack time and when I lack time and fresh…read morefood I eat unhealthy things. Maxfit may be my answer. But the PB2 smoothie and the PB and J. Yum. Thanks for the recommendation dude!

Original açaí bowl super mega Dad I ended throwing it in…read morethe trash it was more like smoothie tha acai bowl the flavor was horrible and I wasted money for acai that went straight to the trash I will attach a image PLEASE DON BUY IT

Hibachi Steak from MAXFIT Meals. Available in-store and online.

Salmon basil fettuccine

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Maxfit smoothie menu as of April, 2024

Acosta Honey Farms

4.3

(4 reviews)

3.7 mi

The best honey! I have been a customer for over 15 years and can attest to the integrity of Acosta…read morehoney. Francisco has 30+ years experience as an apiarist. He would NEVER adulterate the honey that he so carefully gathers from his hundreds of honey apiaries. I especially love the flavor of the honey from the "Wild Sage Hill".

the honey when you first buy it ok but after a month it turn into sugar.i think is more sugar than…read morehoney.

The Rice Gai

4.8

(38 reviews)

Super happy to discover a casual place that serves poached chicken over rice. It is one of my go to…read moremeals when I don't know what to eat and now I don't have to trek to San Jose to get it. This place is a refreshing addition to Oldtown Salinas and adds variety to the regular run of the mill cuisines in the area. The chicken, egg, rice, and broccoli were all cooked perfectly. Cucumbers were also part of the plate but I nix those due to allergy so I can't comment on them. Everything was tasty and the spicy garlic sauce added an extra fragrance to the meal. I suggest using the garlic sauce sparingly if you have to talk to a lot of people. As flavorful as it is, it is potent! Very garlic heavy but in a good way! The person that took my order was pleasant and nice. I've been twice and plan to come back many more times. I've seen some other reviews mention the price but it is comparable to other restaurants in the area, including the fast food joints. To me the price is worth it for good, simple food that is on the healthier side and won't make you feel heavy or lethargic after lunch. Smaller plates are offered if you are looking to just try it out. Truly hoping this place sticks around.

This is what I've been waiting for in Salinas. So simple so…read moredelicious. A bit hard to find but worth the search, it's right inside the back door of Heirloom Pizza in Old Town Salinas. After meeting Greg, the man that does it all. I knew this was going to be special and it was. Every bite was leading me on to the next. The simplicity of this food is the perfect match and complement to each other. Tender chicken both pouched and fried were cooked with skill. The garlic rice was quality. The sauces were well thought out. What about bang for your buck you ask? Worth every penny. Just take out and no seating for now. Last words...let's go!

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Synerqi Acupuncture Center

5.0

(21 reviews)

Effective results in a short amount of time!!…read more I am so grateful to finally be pain free and have the freedom to not only resume my active lifestyle, but to also be able to go about my normal daily routine. For the past 8 months, I struggled to heal from lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) and a neck joint that was out of place creating immense neck and upper back pain. Prior to being treated by Melanie, I was beginning to fear that I may never return to my prior level of functioning. I couldn't remember what it was like to turn my head without severe pain. I had resigned to the fact that simple tasks like running the vacuum or preparing a meal would always equate to pain. I had sought relief through physical therapy, massage therapy and chiropractic care- trying each healing modality independently and consistently, allowing time for my body to respond to the intended care plans. My pain level would decrease for a few days, but never for more than a week at a time which was so frustrating. My massage therapist recommended acupuncture to identify and address the root causes. Within the first 2-3 treatments, I had significant improvement: Pain had decreased and range of motion increased! Melanie utilized a variety of techniques that allowed for consistent and lasting relief, week after week. I completed a total of 6 sessions and never regressed during or after the treatment plan (this review comes two weeks after completing the care plan and am still feeling great!). I am once again able to workout and enjoy activities I had been avoiding for months because of pain. I am so grateful for the gift of Melanie's expertise and compassionate care! I loved that she has the dual experience as a specialized nurse and acupuncturist; I feel it lended to a comprehensive approach to treatment and a deep understanding of the human body.

Melanie with Synerqi Accupuncture Center has been a road to greater health. Every session has been…read moretherapeutic. Open mindedness for accupuncture treatment is definitely beneficial towards a healthier way of life!

Cupping for muscle tension and Back discomfort

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The Farm

We have always loved the farm. When I was still working in the office before the pandemic, one of…read moreus would go over there and get pies on the day they made them fresh for the entire floor at work. It was so delicious. Have gone there years for their amazing gift shop. The nostalgic toy area is so fun to look through but all the other things they have in the back room are beautifully displayed and reasonably priced. Very excellent fresh veggies, and other condiments that they have for sale. But the pies are off the Chart. The fruit pies are well worth the 25 or so dollars they cost they're huge. They're deep dish they're fresh the delicious the large size pot pies are amazing but I love it when I can get the miniatures for $7.95 for one. They are just adorable. They heat up well and they taste delicious. All around really beautiful place. If you go at the end of the summer, they have all you can pick flower days for like five dollars for all the flowers you could pick and they're absolutely beautiful they have tours for little kids and at Halloween they have beautiful pumpkins that you can go out and pick yourself for an amazing experience and memory with your kids.

The farm in Salinas makes savory pot pies on Tuesdays! I ordered the chicken and bacon pot pie last…read moreweek to guarantee one, but they said they make some extra ones for same-day pickup. $32.95 for all pies, which I think is a great deal! They do fruit pies on Fridays! And great customer service!! ‍

Another arrangement from class!

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Emma’s Bakery and Cafe

4.5

(109 reviews)

1.2 mi

I love the cookies from here. Taste like real butter, not like Crumbl. Haven't tried other things,…read morebut if opportunity allows, I will definitely.

Customer service was great. I had a tuna melt and it was amazing. Perfectly toasted, full of yummy…read morealbacore tuna. Ot was accompanied by delightfully crispy fresh-cut fries. I also ordered a couple pastries to go - a twice baked almond croissant and a strawberries and whipped cream-filled croissant. The strawberry croissant was perfect. Huge mound of yummy whipped cream with chunks of strawberries in it and more sliced strawberries pressed into the outer edge. The croissant was deliciously flaky and buttery, as it should be. The almond croissant, sadly, was super dense and soggy. Full of what may have been an almond custard, given the texture and flavor. It was still tasty, but not at all the crispy croissant with the crunchy toasted almond topping that I was hoping for, given the twice-baked name.

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Villa Rivera Café

4.7

(18 reviews)

I wish I had more photos to share all the delicious treats and drinks I've ordered from this place…read morebut of course they are always too tasty that I forget to capture. Anyways, im so glad my coworkers told Me about this place because it's been a nice addition to my frequent-places-to-visit-on-the-regular list. Honestly there is nothing I've had from this place that isn't good. From their lemonades, coffee, smoothies to their avocado toast, wraps, sandwiches, and cookies. They really nailed down their menu options! Not to mention the biggest thing, their staff is super friendly, welcoming and patient when you're trying to decide what to order. They may be located by the courthouse in Salinas but don't let that stop you for visiting. You won't be disappointed! & if you happen to need to serve jury duty, this is a nice spot to go hangout and enjoy a little break from doing your service. Or on any day, with some indoor outdoor seating!

This place is amazing. I ordered catering for 55 sandwiches, salads and chips for a work event it…read morewas a HIT! Everyone loved the sandwiches as the ingredients were fresh and they use Otto's sourdough! I wanted to make sure to leave a review for those that are looking to cater a luncheon, send them an email at villariveracafe@gmail.com. Their phone is weird because it is through the govt building and goes straight to voicemail. I also sent them messages on their social channels before finding the email and they responded there too lol... email is way better. When you are trying to find them, they are tucked away under what looks like a bridge of a building in the center of the campus behind two pillars. Sorry I didn't get a photo of the outside so I hope this description helps. Racquel the owner is the sweetest and I hope you all support this cafe!

My favorite Mexican Mocha at VillaRivera Café!

Cute greenery

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Lemon Poppy seed scone from our local pastry chef at the Sweet Life.

Sushi Hut

I really don't want to write a review and I want to gatekeep, but I won't do that. This place is…read moreawesome This place is very good, high quality. They have sushi premade in a grab n go case and other things out to buy and a couple of seats for eat in. The gyoza soup is to die for. Everything we have gotten here is so so good. It is in a shopping center, parking is tight.

I've never been here and I was adventurous. I came in 30…read moreminutes before closing and right away, I received attitude. Apparently he was the owner : Michael. He was very rude and did not want to help me what so ever and was not willing to explain the menu. I assume he was on drugs because he licking his lips and his eyes were weird... but 90$ for rude service and food wasn't tasty and honestly we didn't try it because we aren't sure what they were capable of on the food. Jim was also a worker there and was giving same attitude and honestly all I wanted was to try new food and to have good experience. I know should've ask for refund but I'm sure they need the money more than I do. I'm a server myself and I know restaurant industry standards and this was beyond unacceptable and unprofessional. I would give this a zero star.

Take out sushi bowl

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Drinks

Creekside Bagel Bakery

Hands down great bagels! I have been visiting for many years and have decided they deserve…read morerecognition! Their bagels are made fresh daily onsite, the cream cheese quality is unmatched compared to other bagel establishments I've been to. The staff is awesome and friendly , they are quick and efficient at preparing your order and are always with smiles. I'm anchored in as a forever customer. Thanks creek bridge bagel staff!

Nice bagel place but I definitely did not like the way it was laid out, didn't make sense to me…read more.. too crowded where you ordered with people hanging waiting for their stuff. The service was just ok, not very friendly but the bagel with cream cheese was good.

Bagel varieties

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Bagel

Amapola Kitchen and Wine Merchant

4.9

(94 reviews)

0.0 mi

Came pack for the Wednesday Blue Plate special. I'm always wary of other people's turkey meatloaf…read moreand I Approve! The glaze was how I like it, sweet. Peas n potatoes perfect! Had the Chinese chicken salad. Excellent ! Get your butt here. Yummy!

This is a little known treasure in downtown Salinas. I'm so glad that we finally stopped here for…read morelunch. The service was beyond friendly. I ordered a gyro salad. My husband ordered a croque Monsieur (fancy word for a grilled cheese with a béchamel sauce). Both items were absolutely delicious. The dessert of a Basque cheesecake was absolutely fantastic. It's a very small restaurant and very clean. I was able to use the ladies room, which is always my litmus test to the cleanliness of a restaurant. It passed with flying colors. Average entrée is about $16. We really enjoyed our lunch and will definitely will return again.

Chicken pot pie with beet salad and goat cheese triangles.

Ambience

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Great selection from Santa Lucia Highlands and beyond.

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7 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Karla O.

11 years ago

I highly recommend this place to anyone, specially people who love teas. My first time going there the lady was super friendly and helpful. She offered different types of teas depending of what we were looking for, plus she offers you to smell the herbs. They provide wonderful service and they are all super nice it just adds good vibes to your day! read more

Lea J.

4 years ago

New Gold Leaf Spice & Teas, Inc website as of 4/27/22. They have all their loose leaf teas and spices available for shipping there. Yay! www.goldleafspiceandteas.com read more

I D.

11 years ago

Great service! Chantel and Nana are very helpful and knowledgeable barista"s and I will be back recommend to all!!!! Great Job Terri and your crew,5 stars... read more

Jorge D.

10 years ago

I usually don't drink tea, but was dragged in by a friend. To my surprise, it's a cool place to hang out: nice vibe and tea not too bad.

Maria O.

7 years ago

Staff is very friendly and helpful. Came in for my first time and they recommended a few things. The two drinks I took were great.

Terri M.

4 years ago

High quality loose leaf teas from around the world. Knowledgeable servers! Design, create your own custom blend.

Liam P.

137

10 years ago

Spices are amazing! I have been looking for a fresh spice store like this one.

Gold Leaf Spice & Teas - tea - Updated August 2026

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Brewjee Coffee

3.9

(83 reviews)

Brewjee Coffee is where you can find decadent coffee and matcha drinks. They have a variety of…read moresyrups and foam tops to create unique drinks. This is definitely not a place you'd go to for simple espresso drinks. We were content with our drinks: Curious George (mocha with banana cold foam), For the Girls (cold brew with strawberry cold foam), and Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso. The flavors came out as expected, but it is was on the sweeter side. The drinks here are on the pricier side. Each of our 16 oz drinks were over $10 after tax and tip. They offer larger cups too around 24oz, similar to a Venti from Starbucks. Given the price only, it's hard for me to justify repeat visits. The store itself is tiny. There is no room for you to sit down and enjoy your drink. The staff were great. They were kind and very attentive despite being very busy when we went. I'd only come if I'm craving their specialty drinks.

Oh my goodness! BREWJEE! If you are ever in salinas, and need your coffee/ matcha/ pastry + drink…read morefix definitely check this tiny but mighty cafe place out! Drink thoughts: I'm a matcha fanatic and those around me are coffee connoisseurs and every time I go here I legit get a different drink. If you realllyyyy want my opinion though and want a matcha drink- get the King Kong Matcha or the Matcha with Cookie Butter! (But seriously, any drink you get is gucci.) For the holidays, you know they had to give us something good! I tried both the Grinch Matcha and Santa Cookie drink and it tastes like Christmas holiday cosy vibes but iced lol. Parking: There is a parking site close by but it can be tight! (Per usual in downtown salinas) Vibes: Immaculate (I need a brewjee sweater / t-shirt now. Brewjee, please please consider multiplying and expanding across salinas citizens!

Viva Espresso Organics Coffee

4.4

(336 reviews)

Stumbled across this nice coffee joint while walking around stores here. It was definitely special…read morewith interesting coffee drinks to try! Ended up settling with the Oaxacan Mocha, it had a nice chocolate & espresso warm flavor. Great service and people too! I'd definitely recommend checking it out!

They say they're organic but having just delivered half&half... yes, it's made by Clover but not…read moreorganic... OVERALL: Kind of reminds me of the local Suju's in Fremont (where I'm from), as their local go to coffee in Salinas that's more concentrated in espresso complexity. CUBANITO: Their specialty! Only 8oz with 3 shots of espresso, turbinado sugar, and milk...can modify level of sweetness. However person for which this drink was for states it's still overly sweet. CARAMEL Macchiato: Made me sad that it wasn't authentic as milk should be first then the shots of espresso so there's two layers (that's why I secretly wanted this drink). Then a drizzle of caramel. Tastes like a caramel macchiato, nonetheless. ***overall, their coffee is good with a smooth flavor profile and no bitter undertones or after taste, equating to high quality beans*** SERVICE: They are so sweet, kind, and patient, willing to answer any and all questions. Very splendid seeing a group of Spanish speaking ladies going strong at it! AMBIANCE: Casual, local coffee joint that's mainly enjoyed by the Hispanic community. Bathroom available. WiFi available. Very clean. Very modern decor. Two outdoor tables. Multiple indoor seating options. Located in the Safeway plaza with a multitude of establishments, stores, Jamba Juice, services, etc. Very large private parking lot. In the suburbs. Would I come back? Probably not.

Jack's Coffee

4.4

(118 reviews)

Is there always a line? Yes. Is it worth the wait? Yes…read more Staff are always friendly, and they're flexible if you have adjustments or requests not on the menu, they definitely know their coffee. Cold brew with cold foam is my go to. I'm not a fan of the matcha since it comes sweetened, but the drinks that are flavored here tend to be on the sweeter side. If I want to throw a few extra miles on my gym runs I will have the Mexican mocha frappe, but I don't even want to know the calories on that one. Good local spot you have to try.

Honestly, really good service and great coffee !! It was my first time visiting and the girl at the…read morewindow gave me a full breakdown of what they offer along with recommendations. I got a brown sugar shaken espresso and it tastes so divine. It's creamy , flavorful and the coffee is so smooth. A way better version of what Starbucks does and I do at home. I definitely recommend trying this place out. And the ice coffee actually comes cold and with ice !!!

Cherrybean Gourmet Coffeehouse & Roastery

3.7

(209 reviews)

A great local coffee shop in the heart of Oldtown Salinas. The staff is super personable and…read morefriendly. I usually get a small or medium black coffee and occasionally an espresso. The interior is quaint with several two top tables. A big highlight is an actual coffee roaster in the back of the store.

Last reviewed over 8 years ago maybe time for a short update…read more The Cherrybean is one of many coffee shops within walking distance from my house to Old Town Salinas. And over the years my friends and I have visited all of them. The Cherrybean is respectable and relaxed. It's a full service shop with some food treats that go well with your choice of drink. A couple of tables and chairs outside in front and parking both front and back. If you're drinking your coffee black (me) it's pay and self serve. If you're fancy, you're waiting. Last words... good enough for me.

Con Azucar Cafe

3.1

(35 reviews)

It's a really cute cafe and the drinks are yummy. I like how the menu is creative with unique…read moreoptions

Got a banana protein cajeta iced drink and matcha horchata. I like that you can substitute the…read moremilk. It was empty after lunchtime. The toilet doesn't stop flushing. There was only one worker so she doesn't give you napkins or straws because she has to take the next order.

Gold Leaf

4.9

(15 reviews)

Lovely place with comfortable seats, nice and quiet, great ambiance and extensive tea selections.read more

Stopped by here on our way to do some hiking and picked up some absolutely DELICIOUS tea. As…read moresomeone used to pounding lipton, the flavors of these teas was far beyond what I thought leaves could produce. The bar area was so cozy and warm against the winds outside and our tea hostess was incredibly knowledgeable and kind when I brought up my lack of tea knowledge. Overall, great stop, amazing tea, will be back when I'm back in the area for sure!

Peets Coffee

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