At Redstraw Tea Bar in Cypress Village Shopping Center, some regulars don’t have to order. The staff, known as tea artists, start making their drinks as soon as they come through the door.
“Redstraw is special because of the connection,” says Ian Lee, who works part time at the shop his parents run. “We just know their order when they walk in, and see their smile once it’s ready.”
His parents, Eunyoun Seo and Ki Lee, are Irvine residents. Seo managed the Jeffrey Road location for several years before taking it over as the franchise owner. Ki Lee, her husband, handles the finances, and their son works alongside 12 other employees.
“My parents work so hard, always taking time out of their personal lives to focus on the business because they care so much,” Ian Lee says.
What sets Redstraw apart, Ki Lee says, is its custom tea. Customers pick from black, green, oolong and herbal teas, including many caffeine-free options, then choose how sweet they want it. The shop sweetens its drinks with premium cane sugar and brings in ceremonial-grade matcha directly from Kagoshima, Japan.
“People like the natural flavor,” Ki Lee says.
The menu has something for children and grandparents alike. Popular items include the tea-based Mango Mojito and Peach Bellini, the signature Redstraw Milk Tea and, on warmer days, the Island Glow smoothie.
“Running a business can be tough, but I love connecting with people and being part of the Irvine community,” Ki Lee says. “Irvine is one of the safest cities and one of the best for education. We just love Irvine.”
