Far Leaves Tea

Far Leaves is a serene retreat on a busy stretch of San Pablo Avenue in Berkeley, where vines wind along the concrete walls and low-lit lanterns and colorful tapestries hang overhead. Each table has its own hot water boiler, so you can nurse a pot without being left with lukewarm dregs. The expertly sourced teas include white, green, oolong, black and pu-ehr flavors, as well as original Far Leaves blends. (Mind Focus, a heady mixture of roots, legumes and herbs, is a favorite among Berkeley students.) Far Leaves teas are also served in a smattering of Bay Area restaurants and cafes, including Quince, Pizzaiolo, and Terzo.