Columbia Kate's

I'm wasn't really into tea culture before I visited Kate's! Now, I can't wait to make the six hour drive from L.A. to Columbia to visit it again. Aside from a vast array of teas (my favorite rooibos tea came in about 10 varieties), the staff members were friendly and patient even when hoards of tourists showed up. No one rushed us or made us feel anything but welcome while we finished our delicious tea, soup and sandwiches (vegan options, no less!). I also found myself spellbound by the dazzling array of on-trend yet unique clothing items and jewelry. Owner Clare creates many of the pieces herself, even my favorite steam punk cuffs and earrings! The combination of architectural charm, history and warm smiles makes this my favorite teahouse and an amazing cultural experience.

I have to confess...I am lucky enough to live just a few miles from Columbia Kate's Tea House and today was the first time I visited. My loss for not having done so sooner! The atmosphere is relaxing and comfy, artistic and inspiring. The menu selection, for both teas and food is vast and fantastic. I visited with my best friend, my Girl Scout co-leader, my eleven year old daughter and her best friend. The girls had a great time searching through an antique chest of drawers that was filled with buttons (available for purchase) both before and after they ate lunch. The presentation of our food was worthy of a foodie magazine photo contest (seriously!) and it was all DELICIOUS (and very reasonably priced too). Our food was fresh, pretty, imaginiative and most importantly, healthy and h... (more)omemade. I had a really delicious lemonade that was infused with lavender, it was amazing! Everything about Columbia Kate's is welcoming and warm. This is a fabulous place to have lunch with friends, family, out of town guests or even by yourself if you're so inclined. On my way out I couldn't help but notice all of the unique gift goodies they offer, one of the items was a plaque that read 'women are like tea bags, you never know how strong they are until they get in hot water', HA, so true. I'll definitely be going in again soon for lunch and a little shopping!

As an avid teahouse connoisseur, I was absolutely delighted to find Columbia Kate’s Teahouse! I visited with my husband, sister, and brother-in-law on 5-5-11. Unequivocally, this best-kept-secret is the finest place to enjoy the pleasures of tea in every way. The extensive menu offers deliciously superb food . . . we have never tasted finer! The vast selection of tea prepared to perfection is unsurpassed. It is an understatement to say the entire staff is warm and hospitable. As a bonus, Columbia Kate’s Teahouse offers a variety of unique products at very reasonable prices. Overall, our experience created a memory that we want to repeat soon.

The best teahouse I've ever been to! The deserts are out of this world and the decor is so warm and inviting. My husband and I now make a yearly trek for Valentines Day and make a point to stop on our way to Yosemite! The soups and the sandwich's are sooooo delicious. Try this place if you haven't and be sure to have the tea sampler...mmmm!

I enjoyed going into Columbia Kate`s for a quiet afternoon tea. I was by myself, but soon had great conversation with other patrons and the very friendly staff. The food and tea was superb, I can`t wait to go back again! The atmosphere was incredible. It would take quite a few visits to take in all of the cups and saucers that are on display. The button collections, fine teas and other beautiful items were so fun to look at. What a nice quiet place to go to read a good book, and enjoy a beautiful cup of tea in the late afternoon. Or better yet, come earlier and enjoy a wonderful lunch and dessert. I can`t wait to go back!!!

A pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Excellent service. Very friendly, helpful and accommodating. Everything is made on site and is fresh, delicious and artfully presented. A wonderful selection of tea. I wish it was located in my town.

I've been to a lot of tea places, but this is the best. The delicious, fresh food was outstanding. Even the sandwich bread was made fresh there! From the owner, Clare, to the staff they were all pleasant, helpful and accommodating creating an environment that everyone just seemed to be having a great time - we certainly were! Wishing I could go back tomorrow!

The Merced Roaming Elks Red Hat ladies felt we had found the perfect place when we were lucky enough to visit Columbia Kate’s shortly after it first opened four years ago. We have been coming every year since to enjoy the warm hospitality which Clare and her staff provide. When the weather cooperates we enjoy being in the garden room while selecting from the delicious offerings on the menu. Besides the unbelievable varieties of tea, all of the artfully presented food is prepared fresh daily in her shop. “Outstanding” is the expression from all who have been there. This has become our favorite yearly destination. Don’t miss this unique experience.