Olive Branch Café owner Terry Waller worked in forensics at Western State Hospital for 26 years. Seeking something more fulfilling, Waller volunteered at Java Fusion. There she learned product ordering, cooking, and the art of making teas and coffees – skills that equipped her to open her own business inside the thrift store Hidden Treasures.
Waller serves up abundant smiles with her simple inexpensive sandwiches, large salads, Market Spice teas, Delano coffee, espresso and homemade soups ($3-$7.95). Waller also says freshly made pastries and desserts will be offered soon.
"I've had people come back two and three times already for my Reuben, and chicken pesto sandwiches," says Waller after being open less than a month.
Reaching out to the younger crowd, Waller has seen a good response to her offer to mentor teens and young adults who have a curiosity or passion for baking.
Out front, the café is mellow, warm and welcoming - with a vibe that's part European parlor and part Granny's sitting room.
The steamed milk hot chocolate has a secret ingredient that gives it a rich, delicious creaminess. It is not to be missed.
[Olive Branch Café - inside Hidden Treasures, 3902 S. 12th St., Tacoma, 253.330.6511]
Comments for "LOCAL BITE: Olive Branch Café in Tacoma" (7)
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Marian Griffin said on Mar. 16, 2012 at 9:26am
Wonderful atsmophere and delicious food. Generous portions at very reasonable prices. Terry and her staff are warm and friendly making each customer feel special . A nice place to relax and have a bite to eat.
Tony Nielsen said on Mar. 18, 2012 at 5:51pm
Eat from there just about everyday, at least get some coffee just about every day as well. Great Coffee and food. Personally love the Ham and Cheese with a nice Carmel Frappe. I'm Part Owner of K.N.C. Electronics which is also inside hidden treasures and it's great to have a cafe' with wonderful food and beverages right next to me. Remember everyone doors open and close from 10am-6pm, tuesday-sunday, closed monday, but that;s temporary for now. Their trying to extend the time to 8 and maybe adjust the days. Come and give them a try, I Promise you won't regret it.
Angela Hernandez said on Mar. 20, 2012 at 10:58am
What a wonderful Place! My husband and I enjoy eating here. My favorite the Chai tea! And...also the chicken pesto! I I love supporting new and small business startups, seeing dreams come to life! The space is warm and welcoming with rich tones of cherry woods, antique furnishings and old fashioned customer service! Our grand kids love the place the feel they are sitting at the grownups table in a sense as they know the surroundings are special and offer the comfort of home.. The girls are planning their tea party for all their friends on their special day, birthdays! You will enjoy it too I promise!
David Guptill said on Mar. 24, 2012 at 9:28am
My wife and I stopped by to look at purchasing antiques and instead we found our new weekend routine. The food is great and well priced as a cafe should be, but the thing that sets this place apart from others is the warm hospitality and their amazing loose leaf teas. Smell them all, try it out, make it as strong as you like. A new contraption allows individuals to control what they are drinking. My favorite is, oddly enough, the licorice spice. The natural sweetness of the tea doesn't need any creamer or splenda. Thank you for opening such a great place.
Mary Kay Miller said on May. 01, 2012 at 3:00pm
Wonderful place to meet friends, atmosphere is awsome, Terry is delightful and the food is great. A must for lunch or meeting friends for tea. Will say no more as to not spoil a wonderful SURPRISE...
Mary MIller, Allyn, Wash.
Jeannie Costello said on Oct. 19, 2012 at 7:31pm
Really good food!!!!!even though they were busy..the service was good as well..the dessert was the best part Red Velvet Cake!!!!
Janet Lewis said on Feb. 01, 2013 at 2:59pm
Went here to eat a few times we had tea and sandwiches. The staff was professional,
the service was great! The overall atmosphere was wonderful.
They have a variety of teas,sandwiches, cookies, lots of goodies to eat.
Yes, I have found a new home...SPREAD THE WORD!
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