Tea Time in Downtown San Mateo

"Is it like the movie with Jennifer Lopez?"  If I had a nickle for every time a wedding guest asked me this question, I wouldn't have to work as hard!  I always smile and say, "Yes, being a wedding coordinator is like the movie - The Wedding Planner."  Surprisingly, I don't own a copy of the movie starring Jennifer Lopez and Matthew McConaughney.  (FYI - I'm a big lush when it comes to romantic comedies.)  It was playing on TBS this weekend, and I couldn't help it.  I had my remote control in hand, and pressed the little red button - record.  I love how the movie showcases the (San Francisco) city and even Napa.  Too bad they couldn't drive down about 25 minutes south to capture some sun and amazing wedding vendors right here.  So, I thought that I should fill you in and focus this blog about the wedding scenery in San Mateo.

Tea's the Season, 220 Main St, San Mateo

A few weeks ago, I wanted to visit a local tea house.  Why?  Because they are great for intimate bridal showers or bridesmaids' tea luncheons.  I trusted Yelp.com to help me find a good tea house, and it brought me to Tea's the Season in San Mateo.  It is nestled on Main Street right across from the Century Theatre ticket box office.  If I was just passing by on the street, I probably would have not noticed it at all.  I walked in with five friends at 3:00 pm - just in time for an English afternoon high tea experience.  It was empty.

Fortunately, I didn't take that as a sign to change my afternoon plans and watch a movie next door.  So why didn't I just leave??  It was a really hot day in the middle of the afternoon, and Americans don't practice tea time.  Instead, we have the coffee breaks in the break room or at Starbucks.  I decided to sit down and look at the 'A La Carte' section of the menu, which I was happy to see.  After we ordered an assortment of sandwiches ($3 each), chocolate scones ($2.50) and a pot of chocolate rooibus tea ($5), I noticed the little cute miscellaneous items on the counters and book cases (packaged tea favor bags, jewelry, notecards, etc.).  Our waitress, who was knitting in the corner, told me that they make some of these items.  Also, there was a cart with about 5-6 hats that guests can use during tea time!  Excellent!

The sandwiches were delicious and the tea was flavorful.  (Yes, I had hot tea in 80 degree weather but I wasn't alone.  My friend also had multiple cups.)  The chocolate scone I ate was even more delicious - moist and sweet.  There was even a little section with couches and a fire place.  I'm sure you can come here solo and eat/drink at the table facing the outside window.

I can't wait to come here again during the colder months.  Take a look for yourself: http://sanmateo.patch.com/listings/teas-the-season

When was the last time you had an English Tea time?