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Englund's Bistro & Tea Room
2002 Salvio St. Todos Santos Plaza
Concord, CA
925-691-TEAS
visit website
Hours
Breakfast, Brunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner and Dessert!
Mon.& Tues: 11am - 5pm
Wed. - Fri: 11am to 9pm
Sat: 9am - 9pm
Sun: 9am - 5pm
#11
of 285
in CA
Map of Englund's Bistro & Tea Room
Overview
Named 'BEST EAST BAY TEA ROOM' by readers of Black Diamond Living magazine! BEGINNING APRIL 7, we are open at our NEW LOCATION in Downtown Concord at Todos Santos Plaza for Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea and Dinner. Our new CONTEMPORARY LOOK is completely different and we now offer a full range menu in an elegant setting with impeccable service! Within one block you'll also find theaters, a lovely park, Farmer's market, spas, and shopping! We're the perfect place to host your shower, birthday, holiday party, or club meeting!
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Way to go, Englund's! I have been a fan of your company since you catered my son's wedding in 2002. My mother and I also enjoyed visiting your charming tea room in Clayton last year for her birthday. Last weekend, I attended a tea party shower at your lovely Bistro in downtown Concord and LOVED it! The contemporary, elegant decor was so refreshingly different than so many of the typical old fashioned tea rooms, and I have to say, the great food that Englund's has been known for these past 20 years was evident. We especially loved the cute chintz teapots, the fresh roses on our table, and the lovely homemade desserts! I can't wait to bring my husband here for your dinner menu! KUDOS!
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- Colleen Fisher 06/26/08
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I was eager to try Englund's Bistro Cafe and Tea room but was sadly disapointed. We were served teapots that each had several chips and cracks as did the tea cup I was offered. The server was friendly and kind and quickly replaced the items when I pointed them out. The 'clotted cream' was COOL WHIP, and disappointing to say the least. The desserts were dressed up items from Costco, nothing homemade. The sandwiches were tasty. Overall experience was lacking . . . I will not return.
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- Deena 06/24/08
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As the chef, I must address your incorrect comments. We do not serve 'clotted cream', it is Devonshire cream (which I make myself) and has a lighter, fluffier texture than clotted cream. The Costco reference is ridiculous, since the toasted crab melt baguette and English sausage rolls are also obviously made here and resemble nothing like the prefab food you may serve in your own tea room.
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My three tea friends and I drove to Englund's Tea Room on the recommendation of another tea affectionado and we had a delightful time! Englund's Tea Room is bright and cheery with lots of lace and everything nice! The owner and her husband, the chef, were very friendly and attentive without being overly so. In other words, they made sure we were enjoying ourselves completely! We had a nice selection of loose teas, warm homemade delicious scones, incredible sandwiches, and dainty desserts! Our condiments were also fresh and delicious. Special little touches made our experience even richer, like the warm towel to cleanse our hands from the drive before we ate and the refreshing orange scented splash that the owner offered to cleanse our hands when we were finished with our tea! Very thoughtf... (more)ul and unique touches! There is also a fun gift area with unusually elegant tea assessories. It is wonderful to see two people who enjoy seeing to it that their patron's tea experience is so special! Definitely worth the drive!
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- Carol of Manteca, CA 03/21/08
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As a birthday gift, my best friend treated me to afternoon tea, at this wonderful establishment. I do enjoy a good cup of tea and I have had the opportunity to experience afternoon/high tea at many other tea rooms, and in my honest opinion Englund's Tea Cottage is exceptional in every way!! The hostess & servers were friendly, thoughtful, knowledgeable, and attentive. The atmosphere was tasteful and inviting. Their whole leaf teas are incredible and their tea sandwiches and scones with real clotted cream were all scrumptious, well prepared and tastefully presented. For a real treat, I recommend their 'Royal Tea' along with a pot of their Rose flavored tea. My friend and I ended up lingering quite a bit longer then we normally would have elsewhere, because we were having such a wonderful ti... (more)me indulging in the fabulous food, endless pots of tea, and friendly conversation, that we simply lost track of the time! The tea room was filling up, with a steady stream of customers, yet not once did we feel rushed by the staff. We finally reluctantly had to force ourselves to leave and return to reality. We left with happy thoughts, satisfied tummies and a longing to return again, ASAP! Thank you Englund's for making my birthday so special and memorable!
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- Missy 02/29/08
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I brought a group of 43 Red Hat Ladies for tea today and everyone had a wonderful time.They could not say enough about the place.The tea room was spotless,the staff was very friendly,the food was excellent,the table settings were beautiful.Thank you so much Pam.I will bring my daughter in for tea soon.
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- Holly(PIPS Fremont) 02/23/08
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For me, it is enjoyable to search out tea rooms when I travel and spoil myself a bit with a delicious pot of tea, warm scones, For me, it is always a treat to visit EnglundsTea Cottage in Clayton (near Concord) 45 minutes from my home for a special visit. I have never been disappointed. The minute you walk in the door, you are greeted with a big smile and a friendly attitude by everyone who works there. More often than not, you are treated to the wonderful smell of scones baking. The cottage's decorations are well thought out and attractive. The cottage is spotless whether in the dining areas or the restroom. Their excellent and varied teas are excellent quality and are brewed appropriately. Each person at your table is able to choose his/her favorite variety and is given separate teapots ... (more)and warmers. I consider myself a good cook and can honestly say that the food at Englund's is delicious, prepared there,fresh tasting and beautifully presented whether it is their special soups (especially love the Cream of Artichoke), sandwiches, savories and desserts.I recently briefly commented that I love chicken curry sandwiches and was pleased to discover that they went out of their way to add curry to my chicken sandwich. Now, that is certainly a great way to spoil me! I have never been disappointed with Englund's and neither have been the guests who have joined me. We walk in with a smile and walk out with a big grin. I am just a retired lady who loves to go to tea shops and enjoy a special treat. I return time and again to teashops who are friendly, are spotless and serve great quality food. As for the tea shops who have less than friendly service, mediocre food and the like, I do not return but choose not to post my comments on this site, I'd rather take my time to commend a special tea shop and also by my actions, hopefully help other tea shops improve. It might be helpful for tea patrons on this site to post what things please and displease us about a tea shop without getting into name calling. For me, give me a warm, fresh flaky and delicious scone and I am a 'happy camper'. Well, even more so if it is accompanied with a pot of Darjeeling!
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- Marlene Furtado 02/21/08
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Visited Englunds Tea Cottage for Valentines Day with my husband and I will have to say this one was the best in 34 years of marriage. The food was to die for, music was superb, even had our photo taken and I like it too which is rare for me as I don't photograph well. I rate this tea house a 10+ being the best ever and we have had occasion to visit others.The owners (Pam & Duane) treated us like royalty. Muy magnifico!!!!!!!
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- Louella Cruz 02/20/08
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I visited Englunds Tea Room for the first time since they opened. I was hoping that it had changed. It was still not up to par of other tea rooms in the area. The owner was very nice and greeted us when we arrived. Our server was pleasant but could not tell us what sandwiches were being served or what the savories were. She had to go back to the kitchen twice for find out. The server who brought our food out of the kitchen was wearing a very soiled apron.Not very appetizing. Our tablecloth was also stained as well as the carpet. The food was okay, but not great.This shop could have so much potential if they made some changes.
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- Tea lover 02/11/08
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I HAVE BEEN TO MANY TEA ROOMS ALL OVER THE COUNTRY AND I MUST SAY THIS RANKS AS ONE OF THE BEST THE
FOOD WAS EXCELLENT AS WELL AS THE SERVICE THE ROOM ITSELF MADE ME FELL LIKE I WAS IN OLD ENGLAND.THE OWNERS AND THE CHEF MADE ME FEEL SO WELCOME,IF YOU LIKE TEA AND SCONES AND THE REST THAT GOES WITH IT IF YOU DON'T GIVE ENGLUNDS TEA COTTAGE A VISIT YOU ARE MISSING OUT ON THE BEST IN THE COUNTRY GIVE IT A TRY I KNOW YOU WILL AGREE WITH ME
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- BRUCE PAULSON 01/31/08
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I've been to the Captains cottage, there is no selection there, you eat what they give you . There is no comparison to the Englunds menu. I am a tea lover,the blends are wonderful and always very fresh. So please try Englunds if you have'nt. You will be pleasantly surprised.
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- Joan 01/04/08
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Wow, I am not sure where the last reviewer ate but it couldn't possible have been Englund's. I know for a fact that Chef Duane personally makes the lemon curd, strawberry jam and Devonshire cream as well as every item offered on the menu, scones to sandwiches. Englund's food has become a favorite of mine because the chef takes such pride in providing wonderful meals to the point that many other restaurants do not even compare in taste and quality. During the holidays, many new holiday tea blends were offered as well as all of the normal selections from Assam to Darjeeling and English Breakfast. While the owners truly do care about each of their customer's experiences and have no doubt made many friends in the process, I don't think that you could be rated the #4 tearoom on the site with just your friends posting. I would hazzard a guess and say 'Emma' might possibly be a competitor trying to increase her own business. Please do give Englund's a try for yourself to experience what a delight it truly is.
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- A Regular 60 minute traveller 01/02/08
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Read the other reviews and you'll see that most of them are written by locals who are friends of the owners. I'm sure this is a fun place for Clayton with its cute kitchy look; but if you're not local, do yourself a favor and don't make the drive, particularly if you're a true tea lover.
The teas are all sorts of fruity weird blends; the scones are heavy and soggy and served with canned lemon curd. The 'clotted cream' isn't even whipped cream, but some variation of cool whip. The sandwiches are stale and the desserts from Trader Joes (good half frozen petit fours).
Go to the Captain's Cottage in Pinole for a similar setting but way better value and quality.
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- Emma 01/02/08
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I have long thought of this place as the best place for tea, but after attending 2 of their events this month, I am convinced that they really know how to put on a party, too! Last night my husband and I went to their fondue dinner and were amazed at the terrific food and champagne that was served. They had a really great band that played songs from the 40's to the 80's and we were able to dance. But the best part was the friendliness of the people here. Every detail was attended to and even the chef personally came to our table to make sure we were happy. I called this morning to make a dinner reservation for our anniversary in 2 weeks and the owner couldn't have been nicer in accomodating my special requests. Whether it's for lunch, tea, or dinner, you should definitely give this place a try!
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- Sandra Bachman 12/29/07
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Englund's became a part of my life this summer when my sisters and I were invited to the 'Sereni-Tea' event to celebrate my mother's birthday. Now after celebrating my 23rd birthday with friends and family at Englund's yesterday, this fabulous tea room and resturant has become a part of my heart... taking root to live always. This is a magical place for young and old to laugh, to celebrate, to enjoy eachother in the short moments we have together. I sipped my Jasmine Rose tea while eating my favorite culinary delight of Chef Duane's, the Brighton sandwich. This place was sent from heaven to make the world more bearable... I believe that with my whole heart, and once you spend a moment at Englund's, I know you will too! Thank you Englund's for making my birthday so special.
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- Meagan K. 11/20/07
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I have been to Englund's Tea Cottage many times and can't sing its' praises enough. Walking through the door is like entering a different world. The owners Pam and Duane have created a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere - just what is needed to unwind on those hectic days. Great care is taken to ensure that every customer has an enjoyable experience. The staff is welcoming and attentive, the service is personable and efficient and the food is wonderful. I have tried about everything on the menu and have found it all to be delicious and it is always so beautifully presented. The only problem I have is trying to make up my mind. I want it all! The menu is varied with salads, soups, sandwiches and heartier fare also; as well as the traditional tiered trays with sweets, savories and tiny tea sandwiches. There is something for everyone. The consistent quality of the food along with the lovely decor and congenial staff keep me coming back time and time again.
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- Barbara W. 11/15/07
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We went to Englunds for a friends birthday. It was wonderful. We stayed longer than most I'm sure. But we were having a wonderful time and lost all track of time. I can't wait to take Family there fot some Holiday events. Thanks Englunds.
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- Sandy 11/15/07
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I took my mom to this tearoom her first ever. The owners and staff are great people, answer all your questions and give the best recomendations. The food was very good and the chef enjoyed talking with you. The tea placement, preperation and artistry were great. The first time someone actucally used a tea light to keep the pot warm. I can not wait to go back and try one of their dinners.
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- Justin E. 11/13/07
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Dear Ladies (& Gents) -- On Sunday, I gave the absolute best birthday present I could EVER give to the dearest friend. I gave her the gift of sharing a beautiful afternoon tea at Englunds. Our precious time alone together was filled was delicious and beautiful assorted treats, soup and tea, and the most gracious hospitality offered by our wonderful waitress and the charming chef! Thank you Englunds for providing a birthday gift that richly blessed both my friend and me! We'll be back!
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- Lori K 11/07/07
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My college-aged daughter and I have enjoyed our time together at this tearoom since it opened. Now my husband and I enjoy it even more with the monthly wine pairing event. It’s an extremely relaxing evening, we don’t have to drive far, and the dinner is delicious. We’ve told friends about it and now they join us there too. My only wish is there could be more tea choices offered at the end of the dinner, as I’m a caffeine-free tea drinker.
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- Beth 10/05/07
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I can't believe we have a tea room of this quality and caliber in our area! I am so glad that I don't have to drive to the city for an excellent tea service. I loved the Royal Afternoon Tea with its fresh little sandwiches cut in darling shapes and all the homemade goodies. In fact, I was told that EVERYTHING but the ginger snaps in the cookie jars is made HERE! My husband and I also came back for dinner last Friday night and had an amazing 4 course dinner. He had an open faced crab melt sandwich that was the best thing I ever tasted and I had a delicious steak marsala. This is definitely my new favorite place to eat!
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- Mindy B. 08/30/07
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Englund's is my favorite place for tea! I have been there many times with friends and family, to celebrate or just to have a little more fun than usual for an afternoon meal. I just held my best friend's bachelorette party there this last weekend, and it was, as always, a wonderful time. We reserved the back 'room' and were treated to a wonderful afternoon tea all to ourselves. (I have had just as lovely a time when coming in with only two people! Englund's is great both for 'tea for two' and for parties.)
I have always found the ambiance to be delightful: pleasant music in the background, really cute vintage decorations of all kinds, lovely place settings with unusual and quaint teapots with individual candle-powered heaters. Once you walk inside, you are in a completely ... (more)different place: quaint, cute, and relaxing. The decor is delightful, and there are always plenty of fun hats to wear. Speaking of dress, the tearoom is wonderfully informal, though one can always dress up for a special occasion. The gift shop sells a variety of cute tea-related items as well as both the tearoom's teas and others.
They serve a wide variety of delightful loose-leaf teas; some of my favorites include the Earl Grey with Lavender, the Chamomile with fruit, and the Classic Chai. But if your taste in teas doesn't lie along with mine, there are still many others available to try! They also have a lovely blueberry tea, lovely jasmine teas, and a whole variety of herbal, black, green, and white teas. I've enjoyed their teas enough to buy some from them to take home and drink later. They've even let us smell the teas beforehand in order to make a decision! The food is always delicious and interesting and quite plentiful. Don't miss Chef Duane's pear and Gorgonzola sandwich! And the sweets are always changing and always delightful (with plenty of chocolate!). The warm savories are often my favorite, especially the mushroom puff-pastry. And let me not forget the gingersnaps waiting on the table in a cookie jar as you are seated! Wonderful lemon curd and strawberry jam are brought almost immediately and complement the cookies nicely.
Though the ambiance and the tea and food are excellent, the real reason that Englund's is my favorite place to go for tea is the service. The servers and the chef are incredibly accommodating and friendly; I had three vegetarians at the recent bachelorette party and they happily made a tray just for the vegetarians. The owner has remembered me the last few times I've been there, even remembering what kind of tea I usually order. There is really no substitute for friendly, sweet people who genuinely care about the quality of your tea experience. And that is the best part about Englund's. And for that, I thank all of you there! I look forward to the next time I can come by.
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- Melissa 08/22/07
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Hello there.... I feel after visiting the Tea Cottage for the last 2 years I must give you my personal thanks!! Each time I am in the Bay Area for family or business I/we have never failed to visit. Lucky us! Now dinner? I did not think you could improve but that you have. Upon having lunch a couple of weeks ago with a client I discoved you now serve dinner. Of course I made reservations for family on Fri. It was wonderful along with your 'vintage hospitality' the food was AMAZING. By the way Brenda your special service did NOT go unnoticed. You even made my bit of a cranky Aunt smile and relax. Thanks Pam for always 'remembering' and making the day and/or evening special. Good company,music,drink and marvelous food. Special thanks.
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- Lea Maitland 08/16/07
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I attended the 'Sereni-tea' event today held at this tea room and found the food and service to be absolutely wonderful! I had the Royal afternoon tea and it was spectacular, the quality and variety of food I recieved was above and beyond what I would have expected to find. I paid a low amount of money for not only my food and tea, but also recieved a full back massage, hand massage, and foot massage combined in one great ticket price! They have many events like this and I would definitely recommend attending any one of them. Attending this tea room was more than worth my time, the owners were so friendly and our server was readily available to meet our needs (despite having four other tables!). The tea was lovely and I will be telling everyone I know to visit this tea room and suggest you do the same! You won't be disappointed!
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- Andrea 08/12/07
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We drove over an hour to have tea at Englund's because it had been rated in the top 5 percent. I disagree with that rating. Our tea sandwiches were soggy. The scone was more like a shortbread cookie, and the milk for our tea had curdled. When we had our milk replaced, our waitress apologized and brought back another pitcher of sour milk. We will not be back for more tea at Englund's.
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- Paige 08/12/07
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