Tea with Dinosaurs

I don't really know how to start this post. I'm still in a bit of an altered state since my journey to the Museum of Jurassic Technology. Let me start by saying that I've driven by this museum about 50 times and every time I say the exact same thing: "What is that place?" If you checked out the museum's web page, you won't be any closer to finding an answer to my question. Let me tell you this, after an hour of perusing the exhibits I think I'm more confused as to what is going on there.

I felt seriously creeped out in this museum, asking my self over and over the same question I asked when I drove by, hoping that an answer would appear out of no where (and I wouldn't have been surprised if it mysteriously floated in front of my face). The lighting goes from dim to dark and the exhibits are eclectic to say the least. I really can't describe the place, you have to go and check it out for yourself. I'm sure there's a deeper, sarcastic undertone as one artcle I read about the MJT named Steve Martin as one of the Museum's patrons. I didn't get "it", but maybe you will.

The reason I'm able to blog about this place is because of Tula's Tea Room. If you're able to guide yourself through the entire first floor without jetting for fear that some cult member is going to kidnap you and make you eat poisoned Peeps or something just as out of the ordinary, then you're in for a treat. The Museum itself is free to the public, and the complimentary tea and cookies upstairs are as well. The tea room is walled with windows which are lightly draped. Padded benches line the walls and a fountain sits in the middle. There is only one kind of tea, but you'll have several glasses trying to figure out what the hell you just saw downstairs. This is one of those hidden finds where you wonder if you're part of one big inside joke. Again, I can't really explain this place well enough. Bring your ghostwriter pen and godspeed.

Museum of Jurassic Technology
9341 Venice Boulevard
Culver City, CA 90232
(310) 836-6131
free

Tea Time

Something inside me wanted me to start this post with, "This ain't your grandma's tea parlor," but that wouldn't really be telling the truth. The fact is, walking into Lady Effie's Tea Parlor is like walking into your grandma's house. The walls are adorned with pictures of family members and friends, small trinkets and a few newspaper articles - and that's just the first floor.

I should probably take a step back for a second. In order to make a reservation at Lady Effie's you need to go to their website and email them. They will in turn email you their rules (yes, rules) and other useful information which you must SEND BACK to them before your tea date. Now this might seem extreme, but trust me, it's well worth it.

Okay, once you arrive you will see a sign with your name on it. When I enjoyed tea at Effie's, my sign led me upstairs. The upstairs is like a trip to the 1930's. The walls are also adorned with old photos of family members. The hallway walls are photos of men, and each individual room is dedicated to a woman in Effie's family. The rooms are classic: vintage furniture, perfume bottles, vintage clothes in the closet. It's to die for.

So, you will find your room with your name on the outside, and it will be set for however many people in your party. You will then be greated by your server who will give you a list of teas to choose from... I don't want to spoil the whole thing, but you have to trust me that this place is so much fun. I couldn't stop smiling. Enough tea sandwiches to satisfy you and and your date(s) will be served as well. All the cost is figured out ahead of time so you know what you're paying before you arrive.

I would reccommend Effie's for a date, Valentines Day, Book Clubs, Birthday Party or really, any day you want to have a cup of tea. I can't say enough about this place.($$)

Lady Effie's Tea Parlor
453 East Adams Blvd.
Los Angeles
(213) 749-2204