Today we’d like to introduce you to Damian Orozco.
Hi Damian, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
The Tea House on Los Rios was born from the passions of my grandparents, Allan and Claudia Niccola. Over twenty-five years ago, they embarked on a mission to infuse tranquility into modern life through the art of tea. The concept was simple yet profound – to offer respite from the daily grind and rekindle connections with loved ones over a soothing cup of tea.
In a world caught in the constant whirlwind of activity, their vision was a breath of fresh air. The decision to transform this dream into reality led them to establish a sanctuary for afternoon tea, a refuge where time slows down and memories are made. The challenge of finding the perfect location was paramount, and destiny guided them to an abandoned 1911 cottage nestled within the historical embrace of San Juan Capistrano’s Los Rios Historic District, a neighborhood dating back to 1700s.
The cottage’s renaissance took nearly three years of dedication – restoring its timeless charm, cultivating enchanting gardens, curating exquisite tea blends, and crafting a menu that echoed their devotion. January of 1998 marked a milestone as they swung open their doors, ushering in the inaugural guests to The Tea House on Los Rios.
While my grandparents embarked on this venture in their late fifties, I was a mere ten-year-old at the time, eager to help the family business. From laying the centuries-old brick walkway, dishwashing, and then table service for guests, I soaked in the rhythms of the restaurant. Yet, through high school and college, I charted a different path. Despite my love for the hospitality realm, I veered toward the promise of stability in a conventional office job, complete with a reliable paycheck and benefits. Graduating with an accounting degree, I joined a prestigious CPA firm, climbing the corporate ladder. But amid the accolades, a persistent void lingered.
My heart longed for the warm embrace of the restaurant industry, the captivating allure of Los Rios Street, and the simple delight of sharing tea with souls seeking solace. After seven years in the corporate world, the urge for authenticity became undeniable. In 2017, I made the decision that would reshape my future – I left my office job and returned to my roots as the operator of The Tea House on Los Rios. Here, I discovered the resonance of my calling, a purpose that not only brought me joy but also allowed me to perpetuate a cherished family legacy.
Over the past six and a half years, the journey has been an exhilarating one, woven with challenges and triumphs. Anchored in the core ethos of the establishment – Building Relationships, One Cup at a Time – we’ve grown the business while respecting tradition and embracing innovation. The spirit of The Tea House has remained unwavering as we have continued to expand our horizons – we’ve opened a gift boutique next door, we’ve leapt into selling our loose-leaf teas online, and our team has swelled to over fifty dedicated individuals. Yet, above all, we continue to craft enchanting moments for every guest gracing our business, sculpting memories that people treasure for years to come.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Running a restaurant has been a journey filled with both challenges and rewards. My grandparents laid a strong foundation for The Tea House, and I feel fortunate to have continued their legacy of crafting enchanting experiences for our patrons. As we’ve expanded, it’s demanded significant time and effort – often, I affectionately refer to the business as my “baby,” as it necessitates nurturing, a lot of attention, time, and financial investment to foster growth.
Similar to countless other dining establishments, the COVID-19 pandemic presented a formidable obstacle. During the months of closure, transitioning our experiential setting into a take-out model proved to be a daunting task. However, our incredible guests supported us by placing orders for their beloved items such as scones, quiches, cakes, and loose leaf tea. Their loyalty sustained us during that trying period.
Upon reopening post-shutdown, a noticeable surge in activity was witnessed. People were eager to reconnect with others, and The Tea House became a cherished venue for such gatherings. The journey of nurturing and sustaining a business of this nature demands a hands-on approach. This commitment is a significant factor behind our patrons’ enjoyment, whether they’re celebrating milestones or savoring a solitary meal. Regardless of the challenges that arise, I’m confident in my ability to confront them head-on alongside my exceptional team and our steadfast supporters.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Tea House on Los Rios?
At The Tea House on Los Rios, we’ve redefined the traditional afternoon tea experience to create a unique and memorable culinary journey. While afternoon tea might not be a common practice in American culture, it’s our passion and specialty. We’ve carefully curated an experience that transports our guests to a world of elegance and charm.
What We Offer:
Our centerpiece is the Afternoon Tea Experience, where guests can indulge in the finest loose-leaf teas served in charming mismatched china, along with a delightful array of savories and treats. Our signature scones, accompanied by homemade preserves and Early California Cream, have gained a reputation of their own. The menu is a symphony of flavors, featuring a diverse selection of tea sandwiches and whimsical desserts. But our offerings extend beyond afternoon tea. Our weekend brunch, entrée salads, and hot entrees showcase our commitment to providing a well-rounded dining experience.
Ambiance and Setting:
Nestled in a meticulously restored cottage, The Tea House on Los Rios offers an unparalleled atmosphere. Our various rooms within the cottage provide cozy corners for intimate gatherings, but the majority of our seating is spread across the captivating wrap-around verandah and patios, surrounded by lush gardens. This creates an ambiance that’s nothing short of enchanting.
Our Unique Identity:
What truly sets us apart is not just the delectable food and exceptional tea but the captivating historical district we’re a part of and the world-class service. The location itself is an experience, drawing visitors into a world of art, culture, and charming boutiques. After enjoying our offerings, our guests love to meander through the streets, exploring galleries and gift shops. We’re also proud of our recent addition, TEAque, located right next door, where tea enthusiasts can find an extensive range of loose-leaf teas, garden accessories, and tea-related items (including the perfect hat to wear to your tea party!).
Family-Owned and Operated:
One of the aspects we’re most proud of is being a family-owned and operated establishment. Our growth is rooted in our genuine love for creating lasting memories for our guests. Each person who walks through our doors becomes a part of our extended family, celebrating life’s special moments with us. From intimate anniversaries to large-scale baby showers, we’re privileged to be a part of these cherished occasions.
In essence, The Tea House on Los Rios isn’t just a place to dine; it’s an invitation to step into a world where tradition, elegance, and culinary excellence converge. Our passion for providing exceptional experiences, our dedication to preserving history, and our commitment to quality and charm define our brand. We invite you to savor the magic of the afternoon tea experience and discover the stories that make us who we are.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Throughout my journey of taking over the family business, I’ve been privileged to learn a multitude of valuable lessons. However, if I were to pinpoint the most pivotal lesson among them, it would undoubtedly be the profound significance of maintaining a sense of gratitude and humility as I navigate this path.
Embarking on this journey has been a remarkable opportunity, one that I recognize not everyone gets to experience. The realization that I am blessed to be able to pursue what I love and continue a legacy is something that constantly humbles me. It’s easy to become engrossed in the day-to-day challenges and triumphs, but reminding myself of the fortune I’ve been given instills a deep sense of gratitude.
Remaining grateful has a two-fold impact. Firstly, it keeps me grounded. When faced with difficulties or when things are going exceptionally well, acknowledging the privilege of being in this position reminds me to approach situations with an open mind and a level-headed attitude. I’ve learned that being humble in success and composed in adversity is a fundamental trait of effective leadership.
Secondly, expressing gratitude and humility fosters stronger relationships. Recognizing and appreciating the efforts of my team, partners, and even competitors cultivates an environment of respect and collaboration. It opens the doors for meaningful interactions, shared insights, and a collective drive toward excellence.
As I reflect on the journey so far, I’m reminded of how essential it is to remain open to learning from others and to be receptive to change. Success in the family business isn’t solely about managing operations and making strategic decisions. It’s equally about nurturing a positive work culture, demonstrating empathy, and understanding the larger impact of my actions.
I am continuously reminded that I am truly fortunate to be on this path, and this perspective fuels my determination to contribute positively and meaningfully every step of the way.
Pricing:
- Afternoon Tea Experiences – from $42 – $89
- Weekend Brunch – from $18 – $25
- Lunch – from $22 – $32
Contact Info:
- Website: www.theteahouseonlosrios.com
- Instagram: @theteahouseonlosrios
- Facebook: @theteahouseonlosrios
- Other: https://www.opentable.com/r/the-tea-house-on-los-rios-san-juan-capo
