When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
PARU
Why PARU is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
PARU, located at 7441 Girard Ave Suite B in La Jolla, offers a unique experience for tea lovers. This charming tea shop is renowned for its diverse and authentic collection of loose leaf teas sourced from small farms around the world, including Japan, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. PARU's specialities include in-house tea blends, single varietal teas, and authentically made iced matcha lattes, which are perfect for those seeking a refreshing and comforting beverage. The shop's warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with its knowledgeable staff, makes it an ideal spot to meet friends and explore the world of tea. Whether you are a seasoned tea enthusiast or just discovering the joys of tea, PARU provides a delightful setting to relax and enjoy a cup of your favorite brew. The shop also offers a variety of carry-out drinks, making it convenient for those on the go. With a focus on quality and customer service, PARU is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a superior tea experience in La Jolla.
Here's what people think of PARU
As of recent, PARU holds a 4.7-star rating based on 112 reviews.
PARU enjoys a high rating of 4.7 based on numerous reviews, reflecting its popularity among tea enthusiasts. Positive Reviews: Many reviewers have praised the smooth and rich flavors of PARU's teas, particularly the hojicha and matcha, which are noted for their quality and lack of bitterness. Customers appreciate the shop's original blends and the helpfulness of the staff, who are knowledgeable and assist in finding the perfect tea. The shop's affordable prices and beautiful presentation also contribute to its appeal. Negative Reviews: Although the majority of reviews are positive, some reviewers have noted that they initially thought the shop might be too expensive, but this perception changed upon visiting. There are also mentions of the shop not serving drinks on-site, which could be a drawback for some customers. Conclusion: Overall, PARU is well-regarded for its quality teas and customer service, making it a great spot for tea enthusiasts to gather and enjoy a variety of teas.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Vivian Lau
Friendly staff and love their matcha powder! So many unique tea selections too! We got the ceremonial matcha powder for $45 and the experimental matcha powder they have too which we loved and want to go back for more. I do wish I could have a sample of the tea before spending quite a bit on it but I get that with minimal staff and additional work/costs involved it wouldn’t be ideal. The machine to mill the tea was out when we visited so I’m hoping to go back and get the house milled matcha. We definitely think their grade of matcha is totally worth it and will be going back :)
Sierra Nash
Did the matcha tea experience here for $10 a person and it was amazing. She was so knowledgeable and it was a peaceful experience. Such good matcha too!! They don’t sell teas to go anymore, but still an amazing experience.
Danielle Lazaro
As both a lover of tea and a supporter of small businesses, I have always been fond of PARU and their mission of sharing tea knowledge and quality garden-direct teas with their community. It always makes a difference in enjoying tea knowing that I am consuming the product that small families have taken the time and care to produce! The employees in the store are very welcoming and are always happy to explain more about the teas that they offer. As for tea education such as preparing matcha or tasting different flavor profiles of loose leaf tea, they offer both private tea experiences and chawan experiences! This store is truly a gem and I recommend anyone who wants to get into tea to stop by the store (they also have an online store)!
Jess
Love this place! I ordered online and had it shipped to PA. It got here fast. Ordered hibiscus and green tea. Such high quality. I will be ordering from here again. Attached pic is the 2nd steeping of the hibiscus. Absolutely stunning color and pleasant aroma.
bash q
PARU Tea Bar in La Jolla is an absolute gem for matcha lovers! From the moment you step into this cozy and contemporary space, you’re greeted with a serene atmosphere and friendly staff who are passionate about tea. Their matcha, milled in-house, is simply exceptional. I tried the Matcha & Oat Milk Latte, and it was perfectly balanced—not too bitter, not too sweet. The attention to detail, from hand-whisking the matcha to the use of high-quality ingredients like oat milk, really sets PARU apart. The shop offers a variety of teas, including unique blends and single-origin options, all sourced from family-owned gardens in Asia. It’s a wonderful spot for both seasoned tea drinkers and those new to the world of tea. Just be aware that it’s more of a grab-and-go place, so seating is limited. Highly recommend for anyone looking to experience top-notch matcha in San Diego!
How to reach PARU
7441 Girard Ave Suite B, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
Website: http://parutea.com/
Why rally at PARU with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable meetup calls for a spot that offers more than just a venue—it requires a place where ambiance, quality, and experience beautifully converge. PARU, located in the heart of La Jolla at 7441 Girard Ave Suite B, perfectly fits this role. With a stellar 4.7 rating from over a hundred reviews, PARU is renowned for its exceptional specialty teas sourced from East and Southeast Asia, including Japan, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. What sets PARU apart is its commitment to tea education and an authentic sensory experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Whether you and your friends are seasoned tea connoisseurs or just beginning your journey into the world of tea, PARU’s knowledgeable and friendly staff ensure a welcoming environment that fosters both learning and enjoyment. The shop’s carefully curated tea selection, including single varietals and in-house blends spanning green, white, oolong, black, and pu'erh teas, offers something for every palate. This accessible expertise, coupled with a warm, inviting atmosphere and the option to enjoy outdoor seating under La Jolla’s pleasant weather, makes PARU an ideal rallying point for intimate gatherings or casual catch-ups with friends and family.
What activities can you enjoy at PARU, and why is it perfect for group meetups?
PARU isn’t just a tea shop; it’s a hub for immersive tea experiences that make group meetups uniquely enjoyable. Upon entering, you and your friends can indulge in tasting sessions of premium loose-leaf teas. The shop specializes in authentically made iced matcha lattes, which have become famous locally for their smooth and creamy texture, with no bitterness—a perfect choice to refresh a group on a warm day. For those curious about different tea varieties, PARU offers access to a wide range of teas from various regions, enabling a shared exploration that sparks conversation and enjoyment. The staff's extensive knowledge and approachable demeanor foster an engaging learning environment, where friends can discover the nuances of ceremonial matcha or the rich caramel and chocolate notes of roasted hojicha, among other teas. PARU also features in-store milling of ceremonial matcha, allowing visitors to see the process behind their favorite brews, further deepening the experience. The intimate setting supports close-knit gatherings, and while there is no party room or live music, the quiet ambiance encourages meaningful connections over exceptional tea.
How does PARU’s tea selection enhance the group experience?
A group meetup is only as good as the variety and quality of refreshments served, and PARU’s tea selection goes above and beyond in this regard. Their offerings include bestsellers such as Blue Chamomile, a tea praised for its soothing qualities, and Genmaicha, a favorite for those who enjoy a nutty, aromatic brew. Each tea is sourced with care to maintain the highest standards of freshness and flavor integrity. The smooth, rich, and creamy hojicha, with its delicate balance of roasted notes, is a standout item that appeals to both novice and experienced tea drinkers alike. What's more, PARU’s teas are versatile enough to be enjoyed hot or cold, making them suitable for year-round gatherings. This variety encourages groups to mix and match, trying different teas and sharing their favorites, which brings an interactive and communal dynamic to meetups. Additionally, the affordability and quality of PARU’s matcha and other teas make it an accessible luxury, ensuring everyone in your group can savor something exquisite without breaking the bank.
What makes PARU’s atmosphere and location ideal for social gatherings?
Situated in the picturesque town of La Jolla, PARU benefits from a location that complements its tranquil and refined vibe. The shop offers outdoor seating, a coveted feature that allows visitors to soak up the Californian sunshine while enjoying a curated cup of tea. This outdoor space is perfect for groups aiming to chat, laugh, and unwind in a relaxed setting, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Inside, PARU’s décor is thoughtful and understated, allowing the focus to remain on the tea and the company. The absence of loud music or distractions provides an intimate environment conducive to deep conversations and shared moments. Furthermore, the lack of a formal reservation system encourages spontaneous meetups, appealing to friends who appreciate a low-key, hassle-free spot to gather. Accessibility is also a plus—located on Girard Avenue, a central and easily reachable area in La Jolla, PARU is convenient for locals and visitors alike seeking a unique and welcoming place to enjoy tea.
Why is the service at PARU tailored for an exceptional group experience?
What truly sets PARU apart is its unwavering dedication to customer service and tea education, making every visit feel personalized and enriching. The staff at PARU are not only friendly but also highly knowledgeable, ready to guide groups through the expansive tea menu, answer questions, and recommend teas based on individual tastes. This attentive approach transforms a simple tea purchase into an engaging experience, perfect for groups wanting to learn and share their discoveries together. Customers frequently highlight the staff's kindness and informative nature as key reasons they return, noting that this thoughtful service turns first-time visitors into loyal patrons. Whether your group is interested in learning about the origins of their tea, understanding brewing techniques, or discovering new flavors, PARU’s team is eager to facilitate those experiences. This level of customer care, combined with the meticulous attention to product quality, ensures that meetups at PARU are not only enjoyable but also memorable for all involved.
How can hosting a meetup at PARU create lasting memories?
When you bring your friends or family to PARU for a meetup, you’re setting the stage for a gathering that is both unique and meaningful. The combination of meticulously sourced teas, expert staff, and a cozy ambiance creates a backdrop that encourages connection and relaxation. Each sip of tea can be a shared moment of discovery, whether you’re enjoying the smooth, dessert-like flavor of a cold brew or the vibrant, earthy quality of freshly milled matcha. PARU’s commitment to tea education adds an element of enrichment to your gathering, transforming simple socializing into an opportunity to deepen your appreciation for tea culture. These experiences foster lasting memories, as friends recall the warmth of conversations held over a favorite blend or the fun of trying new teas together. Additionally, PARU’s reputation for high-quality products means you can bring home your favorite finds to continue sharing the experience beyond the shop, turning one meetup into many. The blend of social, sensory, and educational elements makes PARU not just a place to meet but a destination that enhances friendships and family ties through the art of tea.
In summary, PARU offers an exceptional venue for group meetups with friends or family by combining a curated selection of premium teas, a welcoming and educational environment, and a serene atmosphere in a picturesque location. Whether you seek to explore new teas, enjoy expertly prepared matcha lattes, or simply connect in a cozy space, PARU provides all the ingredients for a rich and memorable social experience. Its reputation for quality, friendly service, and authentic tea traditions ensures that every visit is special, making it the perfect rallying point for your next gathering.