Canadian Tea Explosion, Txoko's New Tasting Menu

Txoko. [Photo: Naseema Khan]

FIRST WORD — Canadian retailer DAVIDsTEA is set to bring its 150 original loose leaf varieties, including wild styles such as carrot cake, strawberry rhubarb crumble, and chocolate chili chai, to the Bay Area beginning next month. The first location opens August 25 in Russian Hill (2123 Polk), followed by an outpost in Noe Valley (3870 24th St.) on September 1 and Burlingame (1400 Burlingame Ave.) on September 8, with more SF locations in the works. [EaterWire]

NORTH BEACH — Starting August 1, Txoko (504 Broadway) offers a nightly five-course tasting menu called "5 for $50." The menu changes according to chef Ian Begg's mood of the day, with partner Ryan Maxey calling it a "phenomenal bargain that will showcase the true soul of Txoko." Ah, but will there be secret foie? [EaterWire]

NOB HILL — Luella (1896 Hyde) begins a takeaway dinner program on July 30. $39 buys Luella in a Bag, a three-course meal for two with curbside delivery to the front of the restaurant; pre-order online 24 hours in advance. The first week's menu is shortrib lasagna, Caesar salad, and lemon-poppy seed cake, with a plethora of creative side sauces and condiments. [EaterWire]

EAST BAY — Berkeley Indian restaurant Kabana (1025 University) has settled into the former home of industry favorite Taj Mahal. The original location at 1106 University may be remodeled and reopened. [Chowhound]