Cali Rosina

Tea, chocolate, food and gifts
Outside seating
Very reasonably priced
4.5 miles from ORI
760-619-2279

If you’re a tea aficionado or just enjoy an amazing iced drink, you need to visit Cali Rosina near Old Town La Quinta, just 4.5 miles from one of the finest luxury RV resorts in North America, Outdoor Resort Indio. Cali Rosina specializes in sourcing their own loose-leaf teas and offers an incredible variety, including white, green, black, oolong, chai, and more.

This morning, I ordered my favorite: an iced Royal Orange, made with royal black tea and fresh orange, topped with a slice of orange. Linda opted for a seasonal special, an iced chai with house-made pumpkin purée. The pumpkin added a light flavor and a creamy texture that was just perfect.

The owners, Jodi and Josh Smith, began their journey as tea baristas at farmers’ markets and open-air events. Their creative iced tea recipes—like Royal Orange, Blackberry Kiss, and Pink Pineapple, which mix freshly brewed teas with fruits and berries—gained a strong local following. Eventually, they opened their first brick-and-mortar shop, Cali Rosina.

Their food offerings are just as noteworthy. I’ve tried avocado toast countless times throughout the Coachella Valley, but Jodi’s version sets the standard. It features soft, locally baked, buttered toast topped with generous slices of fresh avocado and a sprinkling of cracked black pepper. It’s so hearty that Linda and I usually share one!

If you have a sweet tooth, you must try the Banana Whip (also available in apple). This treat combines fresh banana slices and Cali Whip (whipped honey) on buttered toast, drizzled with honey, sprinkled with chopped almonds, and finished with a pinch of cinnamon. It’s unlike anything I've tasted—imagine a cross between a waffle and banana pudding on toast. Be sure to grab some napkins or use a fork because it’s deliciously sticky, as it should be! Our daughter Sarah gives the Banana Whip 12 stars.

Josh and Jodi carefully source all their teas, and as someone who has bought a lot of loose-leaf tea over the years, I can confidently say Cali Rosina offers some of the finest. Their store also features teapots, cups, local gifts, honey, and—did I mention?—chocolate. They carry an exceptional selection of high-quality chocolates from around the world. My personal favorite is the dark chocolate with a pinch of whisky. Explore their selection and find your own favorite!

Cali Rosina has been one of our go-to spots for several years now. It’s close to ORI, offers excellent service, and serves fantastic tea, food, and unique gifts. Give it a try—you might just find Linda and me sipping our tea in the shade outside their front door.

Two final notes: If you’re a traditionalist who prefers hot tea in classic flavors, Cali Rosina has you covered. And if you’re bringing along a coffee drinker, no worries—they serve French press coffee, iced coffee, and even mocha or vanilla options.

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