Afternoon Delight

Tea Time, Palo Alto, CA.

Masala Cocoa Chai

They say the influence truly came from the British empire. Yes, this is tea time also known as low tea in which it is traditionally held between 4-6 pm. In this case, most people break the law and attend early noon. With the freshly baked scones and spreads, the tiny cake bites, and well...the milk and sugar. The perfect thing about modern tea time is that you can just have it your way. This is what Tea Time in Palo Alto CA. allows you to do. Now it could be a bit uncomfortable knowing that you're not doing it right BUT hey, why not just enjoy the tea rather than spending money on the tiers. Your tea will be poured in by an employee and is neatly served with a Biscoff cookie. You'll be within an old-fashioned vintage type atmosphere, Mozart-like music in the background, and the feeling of being inside a modern victorian home. It's a great way to enjoy a conversation with a friend or family member here at the tea house. Students also come for the calm environment and do work. If you want to experience a whole different scene and sip on some imported tea, come to Tea Time!

Photo by: Allister de Vera

Tea Time, Palo Alto, CA.

CREAM NATION

CREAM, Palo Alto, CA.

White Chocolate Macadamia cookie w/ Butter Pecan ice cream

CREAM has finally arrived in downtown Palo Alto and already has become an opening sensation. This location is much more organized and clean compared to the original spot in Berkeley. There seems to be more flavors of cookies and ice cream at this location too. I enjoy the friendly service here a lot! With this type of business, you need a group that can work as a team and get through the task. The ice cream is rich and perfectly made while the cookies are warm and made to the right consistency. The ice cream has a fluffy texture to it with it's true color presented all around. The cookies are pretty moist but stiff to the right texture where it holds the ice cream together. The idea of choosing a cookie and ice cream to have has your ice cream sandwich is a great one! For $2.50 you can get your self one! If you want to switch it up, you could also get a brownie or taco shell fill up with ice cream too. Everything here is freshly made. Get ready because the lines can build up quick so prepare yourself! 

Photo by: Allister de Vera

CREAM, Palo Alto, CA.

East Bay Spice Company

East Bay Spice Company, Berkeley, CA.

Honey Saison IPA

The Royal Charter

New discovery has been made here in Berkeley, CA. Once again, another bar opened up right across from the UC Berkeley campus. This gem has a space inside but can accommodate a larger group upstairs. This bar is a great spot for social hours and gatherings. The bittered slings here are the star of the show. They have about 6 different cocktails that integrate different ingredients. Their cocktails are a one of a kind. From coconut chai syrups, bourbons from different regions, to even sugar cane juice! It’s all in the mix here and the bartenders don’t play. Come grab a seat at the bar or at the high tables before 5pm hits. It can get a bit crowded here so make sure you reserve your seat. Also, start off with their Indian a la carte menu and top it off with a beer from the local area! I recommend the Honey Saison straight out of San jose, CA. Great IPA with a honey finish. This bar is my favorite so far and I still need to catch up and order all of their slingers! 

Photo by: Allister de Vera
East Bay Spice Company, Berkeley, CA.
Taken by: iPhone 5