Samovar

I loved Samovar and would eat there regularly if I lived in San Francisco. We visited the Yerba Buena gardens location for breakfast before the MOMA. What a treat!

They have many tea services, Moorish, Japanese and about 10 others. G had the English tea service with scones, crumpets and smoked salmon, lemon custard, fruit, clotted cream and preserves and black tea. I had the Chinese service with Iron Goddess Oolong (OMG good), coconut rice pudding, veggie pot stickers and a “hotpot” – a ceramic pot with a lid containing amazing broth, veggies and rice. Amazing and yummy small bites/plates that were just the right amount of food. I couldn’t identify the spices used in the hotpot but they were over the moon delicious!

Both services arrived on 3 tier plate holders, and some lovely instruction regarding our tea. I was firmly told to brew for 45 seconds, not a second shorter or longer.

I spent a good amount on many tins of tea and hope to recreate some of this magic for myself. Every element was wonderful and satisfying. Thanks, Daniel Spils, for the recommendation. We cheered our tea cups to you in appreciation.