Whether it's a quick cuppa or a leisurely Sunday brunch over Moorish mint green tea and grilled kebabs served amid the lounge's Asian-inspired decor, this popular tea house has something to offer every tea lover. The location at Yerba Buena Gardens is an excellent place to rest during any day spent downtown, and the Castro outpost (498 Sanchez St.; phone 415-626-4700) delivers the lounge's inventive menu in one of the city's most colorful neighborhoods. A lively atmosphere and an extensive selection of seasonal white, green, oolong and black teas awaits at both locations. Open daily 10 am-10 pm (hours vary by location). $-$$. Most major credit cards. 730 Howard St. (between Third and Fourth streets), San Francisco. Phone 415-227-9400. http://www.samovartea.com.
