Rare Tea | San Mateo / Half Moon Bay Information

Rare Tea | San Mateo / Half Moon Bay is a gem that brings a refreshing twist to the traditional tea experience. Located at 1330 W Hillsdale Blvd in San Mateo, CA, this cozy tea haven offers more than just your standard cup of tea. As soon as you step inside, you're greeted by an inviting ambiance that feels both modern and warm, making it the perfect spot to unwind, whether you're alone with a book or gathering with friends.

The menu at Rare Tea | San Mateo / Half Moon Bay is thoughtfully curated, showcasing a variety of loose-leaf teas that are sourced from all over the world. From the moment you take your first sip, you’ll notice the high quality of the tea leaves, each steeped to perfection. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich and earthy pu-erh or a delicate jasmine green tea, there’s something for every palate. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable about the different tea blends, and they’re always happy to help you navigate the extensive selection, making recommendations based on your preferences.

One of the standout features of Rare Tea | San Mateo / Half Moon Bay is the variety of tea lattes and iced teas they offer. If you're not typically a hot tea drinker, the iced teas are a refreshing choice, perfect for a sunny day. The tea lattes, on the other hand, provide a creamy and satisfying alternative, blending the smoothness of steamed milk with the boldness of your favorite tea. If you're feeling adventurous, their seasonal offerings are worth checking out, as they often experiment with fun, new flavor combinations that you won’t find anywhere else.

But it’s not just about the tea at this charming spot. Rare Tea | San Mateo / Half Moon Bay also offers a selection of light bites to complement your drink. From flaky pastries to savory snacks, the food menu is perfectly paired with their tea options. The pastries are baked fresh daily, and you can taste the care that goes into each item. Whether you opt for a buttery croissant or a perfectly balanced scone, you can’t go wrong.

The service at Rare Tea | San Mateo / Half Moon Bay is another reason why this place stands out. The staff is friendly, attentive, and eager to share their passion for tea with customers. Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of tea, they make sure you feel welcomed and well taken care of. The atmosphere is relaxed, and there’s a genuine sense of community within the space. It’s clear that Rare Tea is a place where tea lovers can connect, sip, and enjoy.

What really makes Rare Tea | San Mateo / Half Moon Bay a standout is how it blends the old-world charm of tea culture with modern twists. It’s not just about serving tea; it’s about providing an experience. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick tea fix or looking to settle in for a long afternoon of relaxation, this place delivers every time. If you find yourself in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to discover your new favorite tea spot.

Most Popular Dishes

  • Peach Yakult $5.25

No Caffeine

  • Mango Yakult $5.25

No Caffeine

  • Green Tea Yakult $4.75

Quality brewed jasmine green tea served with yakult.

  • Grapefruit Yakult $4.75

Grapefruit mixed with a yogurty yakult.

  • Passion Yakult $5.25

No Caffeine

  • Passion Fruit Yakult $4.75
  • Ice Cream Milk Tea $5.75

Milk tea float made with black milk tea topped with french vanilla ice cream.

  • Jasmine Green Milk Tea $5.75

Jasmine Green tea served with non-diary creamer. "No milk" option available.

Open Times

Monday 12:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Tuesday 12:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Wednesday 12:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Thursday 12:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Friday 12:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Saturday 12:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Sunday 12:00 PM - 08:00 PM

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Location & Contact

Contact Details

  • 1330 W Hillsdale Blvd, San Mateo, CA 94403, United States
  • Right Now :

What People's Say About Place

Solid boba. Just a tad on the sweeter side, even if you ask for less sweet. The tea is also just a touch bitter, even when the milk is added and shaken in. But they put in ample boba and lychee jelly. We also loved that they have various games (eg Uno, chess, Boop) you can play while you enjoy your tea. The tables are really sticky and that was a bit unpleasant.

I always look forward to stopping here! The drinks are consistently fresh, tasty, and not overloaded with sugar like so many other places. It feels like a treat but still light and healthy, which I love. The menu has plenty of fun options to keep things interesting, and everything I’ve tried has been great. Service is quick and friendly, and the vibe makes it an easy spot to swing by regularly. Plus, they’ve got board games if you want to hang out and enjoy your drink in a fun, relaxed way. Definitely one of my favorite go-to tea stops!

Had a great experience at this cute tea shop. Very low key and welcoming atmosphere. Got a pearl milk tea since it’s a staple anywhere. The flavours were delightful and made for a great drink on a hot day!

Went today to enjoy a game of connect four and some great tea. Ordered the passion orange grapefruit, less sweet, lite ice, snow cream with osmanthus jelly. That’s a mouthful but wonderful. Partner had a strawberry plush. Strong recommendation to check this place out!

Very fresh boba tea from real fruits. You still cannot go inside. The price is still reasonable compared where others are much higher. The location is interesting which I think is good since there are no other boba places within a couple of miles which mean less competition but I don't see much traffic like other boba shops downtown. The drinks are refreshing. We had passion fruit, strawberry , and watermelon boba. Some with regular boba and some with crystal boba.

Came to the store instead of ordering but they have it available to online order and pick up. Ordered 5 drinks and they were made super fast. They are very generous with the toppings. All drinks were good according to my family. I got milk tea half sweet with boba and Crystal boba.

The strawberry Palmer is delicious. You can tell the fruit is really fresh. Also got the popcorn chicken which is yummy for sure. Quick service and friendly staff strange that they are taking orders by the door still but not a big deal.

The mango mango with aloe vera is my favorite, and I can't find a better drink anywhere else

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