When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Chado Tea Room
Why Chado Tea Room is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Chado Tea Room stands out as an exceptional venue for meeting up with friends and enjoying a refined tea experience in Los Angeles. Established in 1990, this cozy tearoom offers a welcoming ambiance enriched by shelves lined with over 300 varieties of teas sourced from around the globe. Its multiple locations, including West Hollywood and Pasadena, combine a warm, sophisticated setting with outstanding service, making it a preferred spot for both casual and special gatherings. The tea room provides a diverse menu encompassing not only an impressive selection of teas—ranging from straight teas, flavored options to herbal blends—but also delicious finger sandwiches and delectable desserts that complement the tea perfectly. Recognized for its quality and consistent excellence, Chado Tea Room has received the World Tea Award for Best Retail Tea House in both 2016 and 2017. With attentive, professional service, comfortable seating including options for outdoor dining, and accessibility features, Chado ensures a pleasant and inclusive environment for all guests. Whether one is a tea connoisseur or simply seeking a unique spot for a calm, enriching meet-up, Chado Tea Room offers both the ambiance and the menu to make social occasions memorable.
Here's what people think of Chado Tea Room
As of recent, Chado Tea Room holds a 4.4-star rating based on 203 reviews.
Reviews of Chado Tea Room highlight a predominantly positive customer experience, reflected in its 4.4 rating from over 200 reviews. Many patrons express appreciation for the extensive variety and quality of teas, describing them as excellent and a core reason to return. Positive feedback consistently mentions the professional and attentive service, the charming and serene environment, and the delightful menu of finger sandwiches and desserts that pair wonderfully with the tea selection. Reviewers also commend the tea room's contribution to tea education and culture in the Los Angeles area, noting the owners’ passion and knowledge as a factor enriching the overall experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out occasional inconsistencies in food quality or pricing concerns, and a few guests have commented on limited seating at peak times, which can affect the atmosphere and wait times. Despite these criticisms, the general consensus remains favorable, with many customers valuing Chado's dedication to quality and ambiance. Overall, the reviews paint Chado Tea Room as a respected and beloved establishment for tea lovers and social gatherings, continually drawing repeat visitors and contributing to the city's tea renaissance.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jocelyn Fong
If I could give 0 stars for ambiance, I would. I expected a tea house in the Japanese heritage museum to have more Japanese influence in the decor and ambiance. Instead it felt like a kitschy English style tea room. 1 star for quality of food, 2 stars given that it was clean and sanitary, and the service was fine and cordial… but given that this is a tea house, I would expect them to know how to properly brew tea at minimum. The tea was under brewed for both my and my husband’s teas— the Monkey picked oolong and Gyokuro. Their “most popular” tea as stated on the menu, the St. Marc, tasted like cough syrup rather than a “dance” between flowers as the menu suggests. The menu sounded so promisingly but execution fell flat. I could make better tea sandwiches at home. PASS, unbelievable that they could charge $30+ per person for this quality of offering.
David Morales
This is an EXPERIENCE. Tea. Chocolates. Finger sandwiches. I was living like Mrs. Doubtfire AND loving EVERY minute of it. The passionfruit oolong tea was the best choice for me because I wanted 2 pots of it. And... they give you a parting gift (tea cup & saucer) when you order the Birthday service!
Maya “Neverworld” Plastinina
Such a wonderful place for afternoon tea! The venue is absolutely gorgeous with some seating outside in a nice area away from the city noise. The food was delicious. Everything was fresh and yummy. I especially enjoyed the chocolates. And, of course, the tea was amazing: flavorful, fragrant, and plenty. They have a great selection of teas, including herbal / decaf ones. I loved the fact they were pretty accommodating when we requested sandwiches to be swapped to vegetarian ones. Sandwiches were super delicious too!
Jasmine “Jasmine C” Clark
Had an amazing time at Chado, our waiter was pleasant and explained the entire experience to us. Me and my friend chose the $38 dollar tea experience that included a three tier food selection including 4 sandwiches each, scones, and macaroons , and assorted tea infused chocolates our individually selected chose of tea , in cute tea pots, and wine infused tea. I told my mother about it and now she wants to visit.
Aaliyah Jackson
a couple weeks ago i visited Chado because my daughter told me I should try loose leaf tea instead of the bags I always use. a guy there recommended me a green tea with jasmine that smelled just beautiful. I left with a small bag of that one and also a black tea with vanilla notes he said would go good with milk. both were delicious.
How to reach Chado Tea Room
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Why Chado Tea Room may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Chado Tea Room with your friends?
Chado Tea Room presents an exceptional destination for friends and family looking to gather in a welcoming, serene environment centered around one of the world’s oldest and most beloved beverages: tea. With a stellar rating of 4.4 based on over 200 reviews, this tea room stands out for its blend of quality, ambiance, and service, making it an ideal spot to catch up or celebrate special occasions with loved ones. The charm of Chado lies not only in its impressive collection of over 200 teas from various parts of the world but also in the thoughtful way it pairs these teas with delicious food offerings, from fresh sandwiches to elegant sweets, which enhance the experience. The inviting atmosphere, accented by tasteful décor and attentive staff, fosters relaxed conversation and connection over shared enjoyment of tea culture. Furthermore, Chado’s locations—especially Downtown LA and Pasadena—are convenient and easily accessible by public transit or car, removing logistical barriers for group gatherings. Whether you want a quiet afternoon or a lively celebration, Chado Tea Room’s blend of tea expertise, varied menu, and cozy yet refined setting make it the perfect rallying point for memorable friend meetups or family outings.
What activities does Chado Tea Room offer for group meetups?
Chado Tea Room’s core offering revolves around a rich tea experience, with over 200 teas documented in an extensive menu book that can span more than 80 pages. This vast selection includes everything from classic black and green teas to exotic blends rarely found elsewhere. When visiting with friends, the tea tasting can transform into both a social and educational activity, as knowledgeable waitstaff assist patrons in understanding the nuances of their selections—offering tastings and pairings tailored to your group’s preferences. Beyond just sipping tea, the tea room offers food specially designed to complement various brews, such as multiple small sandwiches, savory soups, and baked goods like scones, all served in generous portions. Customers have highlighted the afternoon tea service as a delightful experience, which often includes multiple refills and a leisurely pace perfect for long conversations. Additionally, Chado occasionally features live jazz music on relaxed Sunday afternoons, adding an auditory experience that enhances the atmospheric charm of the space without overwhelming conversations. This combination of curated tea tastings, delectable food options, and engaging ambiance provides an ideal setting for groups to relax, connect, and savor the moment together.
Why is Chado Tea Room a perfect place for a group celebration?
Organizations or groups looking to celebrate events such as birthdays, bridal showers, or baby showers will find Chado Tea Room especially accommodating. Many reviews mention that the tea room’s ambiance is both elegant and inviting, ensuring that guests feel comfortable yet special during celebratory gatherings. The staff’s attentiveness and willingness to accommodate group sizes, such as luncheons with thirty people noted in Downtown LA, demonstrate the venue’s capacity for handling events without sacrificing quality service. The versatility of Chado’s menu also means that groups with diverse tastes or dietary preferences can find satisfying options, which is essential for larger meetups. Furthermore, the tea room’s ambiance avoids being overly "girly," making it equally appealing for mixed-gender groups, so everyone feels at ease while enjoying the experience. The seamless blend of historic tea culture combined with modern comfort gives group celebrations a unique sophistication that standard restaurants sometimes lack. This makes celebrating at Chado not just a meal but a memorable event highlighted by the art and ritual of tea service.
How accessible is Chado Tea Room for groups traveling together?
Convenience of location and access plays a crucial role in group meetups, and Chado Tea Room shines in this respect. Its Downtown LA location, situated just across from the Metro Gold Line Little Tokyo/Arts District station, offers easy public transit access, allowing groups to avoid the hassle of parking and traffic. For those driving, nearby parking lots provide ample space, and additional bus options such as DASH and Montebello Bus Lines serve the area efficiently. Pasadena’s location is also centrally situated and has parking options suitable for car travelers. Being close to cultural landmarks such as the Japanese American National Museum allows meetup groups to pair their tea experience with cultural excursions, extending the outing’s enjoyment. This accessibility means that regardless of how your group prefers to travel, everyone can convene with limited stress. Even for spontaneous meetings, the tea room’s walk-in friendly policy during open hours makes it a convenient spot to gather without heavy pre-planning.
What makes the food and tea selection at Chado Tea Room stand out for groups?
Chado Tea Room specializes in delivering a culinary experience that complements its tea selection, which is a major draw for groups wanting more than just a beverage. The food menu balances savory and sweet with high-quality ingredients and generous portions, including options like fresh tomato soup, assorted finger sandwiches, scones, and a variety of desserts. These selections are intentionally crafted to pair well with the diverse tea offerings, enhancing flavor experiences and encouraging sharing among friends. The afternoon tea option is a standout favorite, offering an indulgent spread that invites leisurely enjoyment and conversation. Customers frequently praise the freshness and taste of the food as well as its reasonable pricing, making it affordable for group outings. The staff’s readiness to offer recommendations and their deep tea knowledge allow groups to explore new flavors confidently and enjoy a cohesive tasting journey that elevates the entire dining experience.
How is the service quality for group visits at Chado Tea Room?
Service at Chado Tea Room is consistently described as excellent, friendly, and knowledgeable, which is vital when hosting group gatherings. The waitstaff are attentive yet relaxed, creating a welcoming environment that is not rushed—allowing groups to linger and enjoy each other’s company without feeling pressured to vacate tables quickly. Tea experts on hand can answer detailed questions, introduce lesser-known teas, and help guests navigate the extensive tea menu, which greatly enriches the experience. This personalized service helps convert casual tea drinkers into aficionados and adds an educational dimension to group meetups. Moreover, the staff’s courteous and helpful approach ensures that food and beverage timing suits the group’s pace, keeping everyone comfortable and well cared for throughout the visit. Groups have noted that such attentive service makes special occasions feel truly memorable.
What ambiance can groups expect when meeting at Chado Tea Room?
The ambiance at Chado Tea Room balances classic tea room elegance with a warm, inviting atmosphere that is neither too formal nor casual. With tasteful décor, thoughtful seating arrangements, and quiet background music—such as free live jazz on Sunday afternoons—the space encourages conversation and connection for groups. The presence of beautiful tea canisters on shelves adds a decorative and thematic touch, reinforcing the tea culture immersion. Lighting and layout promote a sense of privacy even in a public setting, making it suitable for both intimate small groups and larger friend gatherings. The tea room’s aesthetic avoids clichés, offering a sophisticated yet comfortable environment that appeals to a broad audience, ensuring all group members feel welcome and relaxed. The overall vibe is conducive to spending hours enjoying tea, food, and good company, fostering memorable social experiences.
Why should groups consider Chado Tea Room over other beverage or dining venues?
Choosing Chado Tea Room for a group meetup offers unique advantages that typical coffee shops or casual restaurants may not provide. The extensive tea variety means each guest can customize their experience according to taste, while the educational aspect of tea tasting adds depth to the gathering. Unlike places with just drinks, the carefully curated food menu paired with tea elevates the outing to a special occasion. The attention to both quality and atmosphere shows in the consistent positive reviews, highlighting that guests leave feeling delighted and well cared for. This blend of elevated experience without formality makes Chado Tea Room ideal for groups who value cultural richness, relaxation, and quality time together. Whether celebrating milestones or just meeting to unwind, the tea room offers a distinctive, refined alternative too often missing elsewhere.
What logistical tips should groups know before visiting Chado Tea Room?
Groups planning a meetup at Chado Tea Room would benefit from making reservations, especially for weekends or larger parties, to ensure seating availability and smooth service. Arriving via public transit is highly recommended for Downtown LA patrons, as the tea room is conveniently located near major transit stops. For those driving, it’s wise to confirm nearby parking lots in advance due to the busy downtown area. Groups should be prepared to spend at least a couple of hours to fully enjoy the tea tastings and food offerings without rushing. Bringing gift cards or planning to purchase some loose leaf teas as souvenirs is popular, adding an extra dimension to group gatherings — guests often appreciate taking home tea samples to remember the experience. Finally, considering the tea room’s daily hours (typically 11 AM to 6 PM), daytime or early evening meetups work best.
By choosing Chado Tea Room, groups find a charming, accessible hub rich in tea culture and perfect for relaxed, yet special social gatherings. The combination of unparalleled tea selection, delicious food, attentive service, and cozy ambiance creates an experience that goes beyond ordinary meetups, making it an exceptional locale for friends and family to rally together and create lasting memories.