When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Redstraw Tea Bar
Why Redstraw Tea Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Redstraw Tea Bar stands out as a premier destination for tea enthusiasts and social gatherings alike. Located in vibrant areas such as Westfield Century City in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, Redstraw offers an inviting atmosphere that combines bright, quiet spaces perfect for relaxation and lively conversation. The bar’s unique menu caters to diverse tastes with three main sections: milk tea, specialty tea, and custom tea, allowing customers to tailor their drink experience by selecting their own tea leaves brewed freshly upon order. The signature Blue Lady tea, a Ceylon blend with hints of grapefruit and blue mallow flowers, exemplifies the thoughtful creativity behind their offerings. Beyond the exceptional beverages, the welcoming staff and modern, serene environment make Redstraw an ideal spot for meeting up with friends to decompress and enjoy quality time together. Whether you prefer a cozy corner or a place to chat while sipping handcrafted tea, Redstraw Tea Bar provides a perfect setting for all occasions, blending excellent drinks with a calming ambiance that fosters connection and relaxation.
Here's what people think of Redstraw Tea Bar
As of recent, Redstraw Tea Bar holds a 4.1-star rating based on 129 reviews.
Customer feedback on Redstraw Tea Bar reflects a generally positive experience, with a solid rating of 4.1 from approximately 129 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the fresh and high-quality ingredients used in the teas, highlighting the made-to-order brewing process that enhances the flavor and uniqueness of each cup. Positive reviews often mention the bright, clean, and quiet environment, describing it as an excellent place to chill and decompress, especially during quieter hours when the space feels peaceful and welcoming. The friendly and attentive staff receive commendations for making the tea ordering experience enjoyable and educational, particularly with custom tea selections. On the other hand, some critiques focus on the wait time required for the made-to-order drinks, which, while understandable due to the brewing process, might be a downside for customers seeking quick service. A few customers also noted that the pricing leans toward the higher side compared to typical bubble tea shops, which could affect accessibility for some patrons. Overall, reviews suggest that while Redstraw Tea Bar might not be the fastest option for tea on the go, its quality, ambiance, and personalized service make it worthwhile for a relaxed tea outing or social meetup, satisfying most customers’ expectations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Chris Chien
This tea shop has become a recent go-to for me, primarily for its consistently high-quality tea offerings. Specifically, I've indulged in their rose buds tea twice now, and I must say, its fragrance is truly delightful. What sets this place apart is their option for a 25% sugar level, which allows the natural essence of the rose buds to shine through without overpowering sweetness. Even without any added sugar, the rose buds still retain their great flavor profile. While I've explored other caffeine-free floral teas, none have quite captured my preference like the rose buds here. There's a certain allure to its aroma and taste that keeps drawing me back. It's a simple yet satisfying choice that has consistently hit the spot whenever I visit this tea shop. Overall, it's been a pleasant experience, and I find myself inclined to return for another cup of their fragrant rose buds tea.
lizzi sassman
red chai tea takes 5-7 minutes to brew, and given the line i opted for a brown sugar milk tea instead. there was a longish line but it moves fast. you can customize your sweetness level (25%, 50%, etc), which i liked. their classic brown sugar milk tea is very sweet, so i would get maybe 25% next time around.
Jonathan Tachibana
I enjoy drinking Redstraw Grapefruit Punch which is good and relaxing. They have many different kinds of flavors which is good. I also enjoy the Mango Mojito which is a Special Drink that cannot be found on their Website. They have a Specialty Tea which I get the Grapefruit Punch. Milk Tea which you already know what that is. They also have a Custom Tea which is you make your own Tea Drink. You can also get Additional Toppings that cost $0.50 which I added for my Grapefruit Punch. So this is one of my favorite places to get a nice cold drink.
Gene A.
I stumbled upon redstraw during my visit at Century City mall last Sunday afternoon (7/28). The ambiance is very bougie because of the drink prices and white color scheme. Their drink selections sounded promising but their milk teas and strawberry matcha latte without dairy alternatives is a dealbreaker. It's 2024, and many other boba shops and cafes are offering dairy alternatives (soy or almond milk) on their lattes and milk teas. I wanted to try Redstraw's Strawberry Matcha latte but it is only offered in Whole Milk. Please be considerate of any customers who are lactose intolerant and add dairy alternatives to your milk teas and matchas. For the time being, I ordered redstraw's Japanese Sakura Cherry with honey boba. I noticed that the staff seeps their teas naturally for each order. The staff on duty told me it would take at least 5-7 minutes before the order was ready. I waited for less than 5 minutes and it was ready. In terms of presentation, the drink lacked any distinction of sakura cherries on the drink itself. While the green tea tasted naturally, unfortunately I was not fond of the cherry flavor. My Sakura Cherry drink tasted like cough syrup and I do not taste any authentic sakura flavor. I'm sorry Redstraw, this is the last straw of me trying your boba place. What a disaster and disappointment. Everyone else is better off trying Wushiland or another authentic boba place in Sawtelle or Westwood.
Charlotte Sanchez
I think this place is famous. But when I was there it's big holiday the staff were already exhausted. She tossed change with wet gloves. Not that good feeling. I'm sorry to put this kind of review. Should be careful as food handler.
How to reach Redstraw Tea Bar
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Why Redstraw Tea Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Redstraw Tea Bar with your friends?
Rallying at Redstraw Tea Bar with your friends is a refreshing choice that goes beyond just grabbing a drink. This premium tea bar, renowned for its quality and carefully curated tea selection, offers an inviting and cozy environment that naturally fosters conversation and connection. Whether you're seeking a relaxing afternoon break or a lively place to catch up, the ambiance blends casual comfort with a modern aesthetic, making it ideal for groups. The menu’s variety ensures that everyone in your circle, regardless of taste, can find something delightful—from classic milk teas to inventive, fruit-infused blends rich with vibrant flavors. The staff’s expert guidance in personalizing tea options adds a thoughtful touch, enhancing the shared experience. Moreover, the focus on premium ingredients means you’re indulging in a high-quality beverage experience, perfect for those who appreciate the nuanced artistry of tea preparation. All these factors come together to create a gathering spot where every sip sparks joy and every moment shared deepens friendships, making Redstraw Tea Bar a top choice for group outings.
What activities can you enjoy at Redstraw Tea Bar?
Redstraw Tea Bar isn’t just about drinking tea—it offers multiple engaging activities that make it perfect for groups and meetups. One key attraction is the opportunity to explore a wide array of tea flavors, from traditional Taiwanese classics to innovative seasonal specials. Group members can take turns recommending their favorites or maybe even create their own custom tea blends with the staff’s expert assistance. This interactive experience encourages conversation and discovery, turning a simple tea outing into a memorable flavorful journey. Additionally, some locations feature comfortable seating areas that are conducive to socializing, making it easy for groups to stay for extended periods. The relaxed vibe encourages casual games or even light study sessions, perfect for friends or colleagues needing a break. On certain days, Redstraw hosts special events such as tea tasting sessions or brewing demonstrations, providing a fun and educational element that guests can enjoy together. These interactive and immersive activities make the tea bar an excellent venue for everything from casual hangouts to more purposeful gatherings focused on cultural appreciation or creative exploration.
Why is Redstraw Tea Bar perfect for group meetups?
Redstraw Tea Bar’s environment is especially conducive to group meetups because it strikes a fine balance between sophistication and approachability. The tea bar is designed with clean, comfortable seating and an inviting layout that encourages lingering conversations without feeling rushed. This layout ensures that friends, family, or work groups can enjoy extended visits, catching up over multiple rounds of tea and snacks. Additionally, the menu’s diversity is a huge advantage when meeting with a group since it caters to all preferences, including non-tea drinkers who might prefer fruit teas or lighter herbal options. The quality of ingredients also ensures that everyone receives a premium product each time, reinforcing the feeling of treating oneself in good company. Moreover, Redstraw’s staff is recognized for their welcoming approach and willingness to personalize orders, so groups feel valued and supported rather than just another customer. This combination of atmosphere, menu variety, and attentive service creates the perfect setting where meaningful conversations flow freely and everyone walks away with a sense of warmth and satisfaction.
How does Redstraw Tea Bar support social interaction?
Social interaction is at the heart of the Redstraw Tea Bar experience. The venue is thoughtfully designed to encourage connection, with seating arrangements that accommodate groups of various sizes, from intimate duos to larger friend circles. The relaxed noise level and calm background music help maintain a comfortable social atmosphere where talking is easy. Additionally, the act of ordering tea itself becomes a social ritual—sharing recommendations and tasting each other’s drinks sparks curiosity and conversation. The tea bar also emphasizes customization, inviting patrons to personalize sweetness levels, ice options, and flavor add-ins, which naturally invites discussion and comparison among group members. This interactive element promotes a playful camaraderie as people try new combinations and share opinions. Plus, the friendly and knowledgeable staff often engage customers with teas’ stories and brewing tips, adding an educational dimension that deepens attendees’ engagement and dialogue. Whether you want lively chatter, low-key connection, or an informal tea tasting event, Redstraw provides an ideal backdrop for meaningful social interaction.
What makes the tea offerings at Redstraw Tea Bar stand out?
Redstraw Tea Bar distinguishes itself by sourcing only the best premium teas from around the world, which is evident in every cup served. Their commitment to quality starts with carefully selected tea leaves that maintain authentic flavors and aromas, ensuring a rich and satisfying drinking experience. Beyond traditional favorites like black milk teas and jasmine green teas, Redstraw frequently introduces innovative blends incorporating fresh fruits, creams, and even limited-edition seasonal ingredients. Their menu caters to diverse palates with options that range from strong, bold brews to light, refreshing infusions, all crafted to highlight each tea’s unique characteristics. The bar also prioritizes personalized preparation, allowing customers to adjust sweetness, ice level, and toppings like boba or jelly, resulting in a truly tailored drink. This precision and care in the tea preparation reflect Redstraw’s passion for tea craftsmanship and differentiates it from other casual tea shops. For groups, this means the joy of tasting diverse, high-quality tea drinks in one location, every choice offering a unique sensory experience.
How accessible and convenient is Redstraw Tea Bar for groups?
Redstraw Tea Bar is well positioned in several urban locations including Carrollton, TX, and Irvine, CA, making it accessible to a broad customer base. These locations typically operate with generous hours—generally from midday to late evening—allowing for flexible meeting times whether you prefer afternoon tea or an evening social. The stores' placement in popular shopping and entertainment districts enhances convenience for groups coming from different parts of town. Additionally, Redstraw offers online ordering options that can speed up the in-person experience, allowing groups to easily plan their outing with minimal wait times. The tea bar’s layout and staff training prioritize quick and friendly service, reducing friction especially when handling multiple orders. Parking and public transit options near these locations are usually sufficient for group visits, easing logistical concerns. This combination of strategic placement, flexible hours, and user-friendly service makes Redstraw Tea Bar an easy and convenient choice for groups aiming for relaxed and efficient meetups.
What kinds of groups or occasions best suit a meetup at Redstraw Tea Bar?
Redstraw Tea Bar is an excellent venue for a wide variety of groups and occasions due to its versatile atmosphere and diverse menu. Friend groups looking for a casual spot to unwind and chat will find it inviting and comfortable. Families with children can enjoy the sweet tea blends and engage in a relaxed environment suitable for all ages. Work colleagues seeking a low-key place for informal brainstorming or team bonding over drinks will benefit from the calm ambiance and ample seating. Special occasions like birthdays or small celebrations also work well here, particularly if the group enjoys trying different tea flavors together as part of the experience. Even tea enthusiasts looking for an educational outing can appreciate the tea bar’s quality focus and staff expertise. Regardless of the reason, the balance of quality, comfort, and social atmosphere makes Redstraw Tea Bar a fitting choice for practically any group activity centered around connection and refreshment.