Cedar + Elm Fall Afternoon Tea Tasting — A Season of Connection

As we say goodbye to fall, I wanted to share a few moments from our recent Afternoon Tea Tasting at Cedar + Elm, located inside the beautiful The Lodge at St. Edward Park.

Hosting this gathering and welcoming you into the world of Japanese tea was deeply grounding. We spent the afternoon exploring how a simple bowl of tea can become a ritual — one of clarity, gratitude, and presence.

A sincere thank you to Cedar + Elm for the warm hospitality and serene setting, and to Chef Masai, whose thoughtful creations brought harmony and seasonal balance to each tea.

🍵 Tasting Menu Highlights

Jyoraku Matcha (Ceremonial Grade Usucha)
Smooth, balanced umami with a soft, semi-sweet finish.
Paired with:
– Traditional Yokan (sweet bean jelly)
– Castella with crème brûlée topping
– Strawberry shortcake, highlighting the matcha’s gentle sweetness

Hōjicha (Roasted Green Tea)
Nutty, toasty, low-caffeine comfort.
Paired with:
– Mitarashi dango with sweet-salty glaze
– Pound cake with nut-based cream
– Kabocha tart echoing autumn warmth

Kuki-cha (Roasted Stem Tea)
Light-bodied, woody, naturally sweet.
Paired with:
– Matcha cheesecake
– Walnut and turnip dish with seasonal accents

Genmai-Matcha
Comforting roasted rice aroma lifted by grassy matcha notes.
Paired with:
– Tamago sando
– Mini chirashi on crispy rice paper
– Seasonal salmon preparation (TBD)

Sencha (pending rare blend availability)
Bright, fresh, and clean.
Paired with:
– Matcha white chocolate cookie
– Macaron
– Optional financier with matcha cream

There’s a Japanese idiom that feels especially fitting:
「秋の日は釣瓶落とし」 — Autumn days fall swiftly.

Thank you for being part of this community and for savoring the season with me. My hope is to host these tastings quarterly — continuing to create spaces for calm, connection, and beauty.

With gratitude,
Nicole

Explore the collection:
👉 www.floweringwaters.com