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My absolute favorite teahouse so far. It really is hidden by the way. It took us 20 minutes on foot to find it hidden away in an alleyway.
The place is gorgeous, it’s like finding a secret Chinese garden. It’s peaceful, warm, quiet and zen. There’s an outdoor sitting area accompanied by a small fountain and garden. They have a small library on tea books and other subjects that are free to read along with some classic board games to play outside. It’s a high-tech free zone, so no cell phones or media allowed, which is amazing when you’re there.
They also feature Gong-fu services and tastings. I had my first traditional Gong-fu ceremony here, as well as my first Pu-erh tea. Great tea, and great fun with friends! (We name our tea pet William. Haha.)
You can also buy loose leaf here of course, but the real charm is drinking it there. They seem to specialize in Pu-erh cakes and they have quite a line up. I drank “Sailing Vessel 1999(Pu-erh): Smooth, brisk and sweet cake” in Gong-fu there.
If you’re ever in the Santa Cruz area, don’t pass this place up!