Tellus Coffee — Restaurant in Walnut Creek

Tellus Coffee in Walnut Creek is a great spot for a quick bite and a caffeinated (or non-caffeinated) drink. We went on a Saturday morning, and it was bustling! The place has a welcoming vibe with a ton of natural light and a cool wall featuring real plants.

Service was speedy, which is a big plus on a busy weekend. They offer a wide variety of options beyond just coffee, including smoothies, juices, pastries, light lunch options, and, of course, coffee and tea drinks.

I tried their iced chai, but unfortunately, it was a bit of a letdown. It tasted quite watered down, and the spices were overpowering. It just wasn't very balanced.

However, the chicken empanada was a total win! The crust was perfectly crispy and light, and the filling was delicious and flavorful. The chimichurri sauce on the side added a nice touch.

It's definitely a bit pricy for a cafe, and the drinks and food can be hit-or-miss. My friend loved her bacon onion pretzel croissant but wasn't a fan of the iced tea.

One thing to keep in mind is the seating layout. There are two main sections, but there's a smaller one that's kind of tucked away near the restrooms. You might miss it entirely if you're not heading in that direction.

Overall, Tellus Coffee gets 3.5 stars from me. The food is tasty, the service is fast, and the atmosphere is inviting. However, the drink selection could be a bit more consistent. I'd definitely go back for...

Updated review on 3/3/2024 - adding new pix. Flavors lean towards Italian style of espresso with deep, toasted arabica notes. Since my prior review I have visited a few times and the quality while good has not been consistent. I hope the very kind owner who I met on a prior visit is there next time. Pro tip: buy an extra cortado and pour over vanilla ice cream when you get home.

Original review of 7/29/2023 below: Delightful establishment for enjoying quality coffee drinks and light food in clean upscale setting. Not sure what took me so long to visit Tellus and glad my wife drove us there. The interior is clean, nicely decorated and above all welcoming. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Breakfast light plates are tasty, healthy and quickly served. Many tables available in the main space with views inside and to the street. There is a quiet back room with soft lighting for more intimate conversation, which made our experience feel like a date. The room can also provide a nice break from busy day shopping, especially if hot. The lattes and cappuccino exhibited strong coffee notes with good crema. I have visited several times and the quality is good. Street parking is a challenge on most days. Do not let that discourage you from visiting - just plan to spend extra time enjoying the special atmosphere which warrants a 5...

Today I visited Telus Coffee with my friend and ordered a chai latte for the very first time. Unfortunately, it turned into a very unpleasant and even dangerous experience. Shortly after drinking it, I developed a severe allergic reaction that caused my entire lip to swell badly. The reaction was so serious that I had to seek emergency care right away.

I specifically asked for a chai latte, but what I received had unexpected spices or ingredients that I have never experienced in any chai latte before. I do not understand why such additives would be included without clear disclosure. Customers trust cafés to serve drinks that are safe and prepared with care, and this trust was completely broken for me today.

It is extremely disappointing to walk into a coffee shop expecting to enjoy a simple cup of tea and instead leave with a medical emergency. This raises serious concerns about ingredient transparency, preparation methods, and overall attention to customer safety.

I genuinely question how I can trust Telus Coffee in the future after such an incident. Clear communication of ingredients and proper handling should be non-negotiable in food and beverage service. Experiences like mine should...