Where there's a Will...

by Joie de Vivre

Coffee, Tea & Tulips serves up high tea stirred with a loving spoonful


I have been waiting a looooooooooooong time for someone to open up a new place that serves afternoon tea with all the fixings.  I have been waiting nearly as long to visit Coffee, Tea and Tulips in Mission Viejo, CA which is no longer 'just down the road' ever since I made my green statement by forgoing an automobile.  Thanks to a willing friend and a bit o bribery I finally made the trek CT&T a week or two ago.


Conveniently located just off the 5 Freeway and La Paz, the tea room and "petit bistro" has been plying their since July of 2009, and voted one of the "Top 5" tea rooms of 2010 -- I am guessing that is top five in the OC?  The space offers attractive eclectic comfort, seating 24 inside, with a smidge outdoor cafe style seating in front.  

The man of the tea hour

Everything about the multi-course tea experience was a delight, but nothing more so than the charming, genuine service we received from newbie staffer Will, who had been in the tea room's employ for four scant days at the time of our visit, yet made us feel that he had grown up at the place, and was welcoming us into a beloved family member's home.  I have never seen such poise, joy and product knowledge in a new recruit -- I was very impressed.


The black vanilla tea (with just the teensiest hint of ginger) he recommended was the perfect accompaniment for all the courses that followed -- and here they are:

• We started with a black currant scone served with cream and apricot jam... my fave jam, though seldom served
• Soup - I opted for the tomato basil, my friend for the cream potato -- both tasty and topped with freshly-made croutons
• Tea Sandwiches - turkey with cranberry chutney, chicken salad with poppyseed dressing (veritable chicken breast, not canned - imagine that), cream cheese-nut-lavendar
• Salad with apples, and oh gosh I forget what else cuz I was too excited that it was topped with a generous portion of bacon!
• a light & flavorful dessert course
• petite pastries

Owners Michael (the self-proclaimed 'moody chef' whom we met) and wife Lina (who we were assured is the personality of the place) have become the darlings of Yelp.  And no wonder, given Michael's emphasis on infusing both his cooking and customer service with love! .... OK, it doesn't hurt that they also serve crepes.... 


Here is a sampling of recent rave reviews from their yelping fans: http://www.yelp.com/biz/coffee-tea-and-tulips-mission-viejo-2

"Awesome place with REAL food! It's hard to find non-chain places in this area. Had a tasty broccoli cream soup, a delicious salad on flatbread and the best mocha ever...with milk foam, orange zest and a hint of nutmeg! Thanks so much! Will be back next week for tea and biscuits :)" - Ariane G. 

"Orange County needs more places like this.  Just a great little mom n' pop (or in this case husband n' wife) shop.  Very friendly people and the place has a lot of character.  Great coffee and pastries.  The sandwiches looked amazing but I have not been for lunch yet... Do yourself a favor and give this place a try." - Jeff S. 

"Wonderful service! Thanks Will. Food is fresh, healthy and varied. Eclectic spot in a strip-mall wasteland ...  Seating is limited." - Michael S. 

"Just had great tea and scone @ Coffee, Tea & Tulips.  Such a warm and wonderful atmosphere and always excellent.  If you've never been here, GO!  If it's been a while since you were here - go back for a wonderful meal." - Ellis B.

(my iPhone camera & I don't get along)

CT&T is open Tues - Sat, 9a-3p, Sun 9a-2p, closed Monday.  What a refreshing treat to have a place like this open so early!  Ask about their Surprise Scones and Surprise Crepes.... which is what I am ordering next time... and yes, there will indeed be a next time... provided Will is working that day!

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