Tea Tasting

the tablehopper | 6:50 pm | December 10, 2008 | Foodie 411, Hayes Valley

Samovar Tea Lounge is opening a third location in the former Laguna Sidewalk Café corner spot in what they are calling the “Zen Valley” (instead of the Hayes Valley—the project is through a partnership with the Zen Center, who owns the building). The opening is scheduled for Monday December 15th. This location will have a tea-tasting bar so guests can interact and learn more about tea, and the menu will be almost the same as the other two Samovar locations. The overall size will be similar to the first Sanchez Street location, and there will also be a similar large table in a raised-platform area, with room for 15 (perfect for small gatherings). The materials used in the space are recycled, salvaged, or sustainable, including some lovely wind-fallen old-growth redwood. Hours will be 10am–10pm daily.

• 297 Page St. at Octavia.

Marcia Gagliardi writes a popular weekly e-column about the SF dining scene, “the tablehopper.” Subscribe for free at www.tablehopper.com and get it in your inbox every Tuesday. Got news? Email Marcia at taste@sanfrancisco.travel.