When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
Far Leaves Tea
Why Far Leaves Tea is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Far Leaves Tea, established in 1998 in Berkeley, California, stands out as a serene refuge and community hub for tea enthusiasts and novices alike. Co-founded by Peter and Donna, whose relationship blossomed over a shared cup of Dong Ding Oolong, the shop embodies a philosophy of mindful living through the ritual of making tea. Unlike many tea outlets, Far Leaves focuses on premium loose leaf teas sourced from single-origin, handcrafted selections cultivated by thoughtful growers around the world, particularly from China and Taiwan. Visitors to Far Leaves find more than just a tea shop; they discover an invitation to explore and define their own tea rituals without concern for rigid tradition. The welcoming atmosphere encourages friends to meet, share conversations, and enjoy a luxurious pot of tea together, fostering community and calm in a busy urban setting. The shop's intimate knowledge, artisanal teaware, and carefully curated teas make it a treasured destination where one can deeply savor the art of tea and embrace mindfulness with every sip. Regular visits feel like joining a thoughtful family dedicated to quality and personal tea experience.
Here's what people think of Far Leaves Tea
As of recent, Far Leaves Tea holds a 4.8-star rating based on 165 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently praise Far Leaves Tea for its exceptional quality and the serene, welcoming environment that makes each visit special. Positive reviews highlight the superior flavor and freshness of the teas, the knowledgeable and friendly staff, particularly the proprietor Donna Lo, and the unique ambiance that invites relaxation and meaningful connection. Many appreciate the authenticity and artisanal nature of the teas, mentioning how the shop feels like an oasis amid the industrial surroundings. The variety of loose leaf teas and teaware also scores highly, with customers feeling inspired to develop their own tea practices. Negative feedback, although minimal given the 4.8-star average from 165 reviews, sometimes mentions the shop's location as slightly off the beaten path, which can make it a little harder to find, or occasional wait times during busier periods. A few customers also mentioned pricing that reflects the premium nature of the teas, which some found a bit high but generally justified by quality. Overall, reviews underscore Far Leaves Tea as a beloved destination, praised for authenticity, community spirit, and fostering mindfulness through tea. The balance of excellent product and welcoming human touch makes it a standout tea haven in Berkeley.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Seda Selvitopi
The variety of tea is quite extensive and delightful — including white tea, oolong tea, green tea, black tea, herbal tea and more. The service is polite, attentive, and courteous. They explain in detail how each tea should be brewed. The concept and atmosphere are calm and relaxing. It’s a great spot to meet a friend or enjoy some peaceful time alone.
Corina Deng
We came here to purchase some loose leaf tea to brew at home and opted for the silver tip jasmine. It has a wonderfully fragrant aroma and flavour and does not get bitter no matter how many times it’s rebrewed from the same serving of tea leaves. Highly recommend for some quality tea!
Carlos Apodaca
An absolute serene and pleasant tea house. Wonderful atmosphere, friendly tea master service. Exquisite and aromatic tea drinking experience. I will definitely be back to this Wonderful place next time I visit the Bay area.
Michael Blanco
As along time tea lover I have been to nearly every tea house worth going to in the Bay Area, Far Leaves falls somewhere in the middle. The atmosphere is so peaceful and zen, the lighting so nice for a little snooze, a hushed chat or a multi hour session. The layout does not necessarily foster open conversations or community engagements(one of the most important elements of tea), think your own little zen cove. The teas are pretty decent with the occasional banger and occasional flop depending on your preference, yet the employees do not always understand which wares the teas are traditionally served in and you often get something like an herbal or Pu'er tea served in a vessel for Japanese green tea(this may not matter to you depending on your experience though) and they are generally not properly deep cleaned leaving the residues of various teas on a single glazed or unglazed pots. Employees and so nice and sometimes knowledgeable(shouts out to Brad! love you Brad!). Remember, there is no wrong way to enjoy tea, It's your cuppa!
S D
Such a calm place! Feels like a inside zen garden. The lady running the store was super friendly and made sure to check few times that our large group orders were correct. Got the blood orange tea and mochi. Both were really good! Great way to relax or just chat with fiends. Berkeley surprises me with how many cool places there are!
How to reach Far Leaves Tea
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Why Far Leaves Tea may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Far Leaves Tea with your friends?
Far Leaves Tea is an exceptional choice for gathering with friends due to its uniquely cozy and intimate atmosphere, combined with an outstanding selection of fine loose-leaf teas. With a 4.8-star rating from 165 reviews, it clearly resonates with tea lovers and social groups alike. The tea house offers a tranquil respite from the busy pace of everyday life, making it a perfect setting for meaningful conversations and relaxation together. Whether you are meeting for a casual catch-up or a special occasion, the ambiance encourages calm and connection. The space is thoughtfully designed with tatami mats, antique tea chairs, and traditional elements that invite guests to pause, enjoy, and share. The affordability, with tea pots around $5 and modest additional charges for sharing, ensures that everyone in your group can comfortably participate without breaking the bank. The opportunity to sample distinct teas like Osmanthus, Oolong, Rose, White Lavender, and Herbal Chai adds a sensory pleasure that brings friends closer through discovery and tasting rituals. Overall, Far Leaves Tea stands out as a rare destination where friendship and culture intertwine naturally in a serene tea experience that invites you to rally and unwind together.
What kind of activities can groups enjoy at Far Leaves Tea?
Groups visiting Far Leaves Tea can indulge in a variety of activities beyond just drinking tea, making the experience enriching and interactive. Primarily, tea tasting is the main attraction – friends can sample a range of aromatic loose-leaf teas, learning to appreciate subtle differences such as the floral Osmanthus or the smoky notes of Oolong. This shared tasting ritual acts as a gentle icebreaker and conversation starter. The tea house also provides a small curated selection of snacks that complement the teas, including flavored mochi and steamed taro buns, which provide a tasty accompaniment to sip and savor together. The venue’s cozy and quiet environment, enhanced by tatami mats and antique chairs, allows for relaxed group discussions or quiet moments of contemplation. For those who want to extend their visit, Hot water heaters and power outlets at every table mean friends can also work or browse together on laptops or phones, blending social interaction with productivity or leisure digital activities. These options make Far Leaves Tea ideal for both casual hangouts and informal meetings, ensuring every group member finds something engaging. Lastly, the option to purchase and take home premium loose-leaf tea enhances the shared experience, letting the memories and flavors last well beyond the visit.
Why is Far Leaves Tea perfect for hosting group meetups?
Far Leaves Tea is perfectly suited for group meetups because it combines an inviting ambiance with practical conveniences that accommodate socializing, relaxing, and celebrating together. Groups benefit from the tea house’s spacious layout which includes traditional seating arrangements, such as low tables on tatami mats, facilitating a communal atmosphere ideal for conversation and bonding. The quiet and calm environment removes distractions commonly found in typical cafés or restaurants, allowing group members to focus on each other and the tea experience. The affordable pricing structure—with reasonably priced pots of tea and snacks—makes it easy for larger groups to share and sample without worrying about excessive costs. Additionally, the thoughtful availability of hot water heaters and electrical outlets at each table not only enhances comfort but also caters to groups who might want to combine socializing with some light work or study. The diverse loose-leaf tea menu ensures there is something to suit every preference, promoting inclusivity in taste and choice. These combined factors—comfort, affordability, variety, and ambiance—create an ideal setting for friends or family to gather, recharge, and enjoy quality time together in a way few other places can match.
What should visitors expect from the tea selection and food offerings?
Visitors to Far Leaves Tea can expect a carefully curated selection of premium loose-leaf teas, known for quality and variety. The tea house specializes in Asian-style teas with distinctive flavors and fragrances that offer guests a sophisticated tasting journey. Popular choices include Osmanthus tea with its aromatic floral scent, smoky Oolong, delicate Rose tea, calming White Lavender tea, and the rich spiced Herbal Chai. This variety allows groups to explore different tastes and aromas, making each visit potentially unique and memorable. Alongside tea, Far Leaves Tea offers a small, thoughtfully chosen selection of snacks designed to enhance the tea experience. Patrons can enjoy flavored mochi, steamed taro buns made fresh to order, almonds, and dates—all items that complement the teas without overpowering them. These snacks provide a delightful sweet or savory balance to the beverages, ideal for sharing in a group setting. The overall focus is on quality over quantity, ensuring that each item on the menu harmonizes with the peaceful and refined tea-drinking experience the venue aspires to deliver.
How accessible and comfortable is Far Leaves Tea for group visitors?
Far Leaves Tea is highly accessible and comfortable for groups, making it an excellent venue for hosting friends or family gatherings. Located in Berkeley, California, its physical setting on San Pablo Avenue offers convenient access for locals and visitors alike. Inside, the tea house prioritizes guest comfort with spacious tatami mat seating and traditional antique tea chairs, which create a warm and inviting environment. Each table is equipped with hot water heaters and outlets, a thoughtful detail that adds practical comfort for groups wanting to linger, work, or socialize comfortably throughout their visit. The quiet ambiance ensures that conversations can flow without disruption, which is often a challenge in larger or noisier establishments. Regular patrons note that even on busier days, the environment remains calm and easy to find seating. The staff are known for their attentive and friendly service, ensuring that groups feel welcome and well cared for. Altogether, these elements combine to make Far Leaves Tea a welcoming space where groups can relax, connect, and enjoy their time together.
What makes Far Leaves Tea stand out compared to other tea houses?
Far Leaves Tea stands out from other tea houses due to its blend of traditional tea culture with a modern, comfortable setting perfect for social groups. Unlike more commercialized tea venues, Far Leaves maintains a focus on authenticity with its loose-leaf teas, tatami mats for seating, and antique tea chairs, all providing a genuine Asian-style tea house experience. The affordability paired with high quality makes it accessible for a broad audience—from casual drinkers to tea aficionados. The venue's reputation for peacefulness, combined with the provision of amenities like hot water heaters and power outlets, uniquely caters to both leisure and practical needs, attracting a diverse clientele seeking more than just a beverage. The small but curated snack menu adds a thoughtful culinary touch to the experience, encouraging guests to linger longer and make their visit special. Furthermore, the highly positive customer ratings and consistent reviews praising the atmosphere and service underscore Far Leaves Tea’s reputation as a premier spot for group gatherings and personal tea exploration. This balance of ambiance, quality, and thoughtful details distinguishes Far Leaves Tea as an exceptional place to rally with friends or family.
How can Far Leaves Tea enhance your group gathering experience?
Far Leaves Tea can significantly enhance your group gathering by providing a serene environment where meaningful interaction is nurtured through the shared appreciation of fine teas and thoughtful service. The ritual of tea tasting naturally fosters closeness and conversation, encouraging friends and family to engage in new experiences side by side. Its calm setting removes typical distractions, allowing groups to focus wholly on each other. With various tea options and complementary snacks, hosts can tailor the experience to suit everyone’s tastes, making gatherings more inclusive and enjoyable. The presence of modern conveniences like power outlets means a group can effortlessly integrate downtime, casual work, or digital sharing into their meetups without sacrificing comfort or ambiance. The attentive, knowledgeable staff further personalize visits by guiding newcomers or recommending teas, adding to the sense of care and hospitality. By choosing Far Leaves Tea, groups are offered more than just a venue—they gain a cultural, sensory, and social experience that deepens connections and creates lasting memories.
What should you know before planning a meetup at Far Leaves Tea?
Before planning your meetup at Far Leaves Tea, it’s important to consider its operating hours, size, and seating style to ensure your group’s needs are met comfortably. The tea house operates Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Sunday from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM, closing on Mondays, so scheduling should accommodate these times. Seating primarily features tatami mats and antique chairs, which provide charm but may not suit everyone’s mobility needs, so checking in advance if your group requires special accommodations is advisable. The venue is cozy and quiet but can be popular, so for larger groups, it’s wise to call ahead or visit during off-peak hours to secure seating together. Pricing is reasonable, with pots of tea around $5 and a small extra charge for sharing, making it affordable for most groups. Because the menu focuses on tea and light snacks rather than full meals, consider whether you want to combine your visit with other dining options nearby for a more complete outing. Being prepared with these details helps ensure your meetup at Far Leaves Tea is enjoyable and runs smoothly.
Who benefits most from visiting Far Leaves Tea for group meetups?
Far Leaves Tea is especially ideal for several types of groups who value a relaxed, culturally rich environment for gathering. Tea enthusiasts and those interested in traditional Asian tea culture will find a treasure trove of authentic tastes and aromas that make every visit an exploration. Friends looking for a quiet place to catch up, share meaningful conversations, and enjoy a calming ambiance will appreciate the peacefulness that Far Leaves offers compared to louder cafés or bars. Family groups who want a unique experience beyond standard restaurants can delight in the tactile, sensory elements of tea rituals along with the small, shareable snacks. Students and coworkers also benefit from the availability of power outlets and Wi-Fi-friendly seating for casual study or informal meetings combined with refreshment breaks. Finally, anyone seeking a gentle, stress-reducing environment to spend time with loved ones will find Far Leaves Tea to be a sanctuary where connections deepen over expertly brewed pots of tea. This broad appeal makes it a versatile and highly recommended spot for diverse group meetups.
What are some tips for making the most of your visit to Far Leaves Tea?
To maximize your experience at Far Leaves Tea during a group meetup, consider some simple but effective tips. Arrive a little earlier or during mid-afternoon hours to secure the best seating options, especially if your group is larger. Take the opportunity to sample a variety of teas rather than sticking to one; encourage group members to share pots so everyone can enjoy different flavors and aromas together. Pair your tea with the house snacks — such as flavored mochi or steamed taro buns — which enhance the tasting experience and provide delightful conversation starters. Use the outlets available at each table to keep devices charged if you want to incorporate light work or entertainment, but don’t let screens overshadow the social aspect of your visit. Engage with the staff for recommendations tailored to your group’s preferences and to learn more about the teas you’re enjoying, turning your visit into a mini cultural lesson. Lastly, consider purchasing some loose-leaf tea to take home, extending the memories and flavors beyond your meetup. These strategies will help create a richer, more memorable group experience at Far Leaves Tea.