BriGeeski Yerba Mate Bar & Empanadas in Pacific Beach is now open! Yerba Mate is a popular drink in South America. It’s treated as an experience. People bring their mate with them wherever they go and use it to gather around and sip. I had the chance to speak with one of the owners to learn all about it as she hosted us for a tasting. Their family is from Argentina and they started out by selling their delicious Empanadas at farmers markets. I’m loving the addition of this tasty Yerba Mate Tea.
Traditional Yerba Mate Tea
The traditional is a must to experience the true flavors of the tea. It is like a rich green tea packed with antioxidants and vitamins. It comes in a little cup with a metal straw and filled with the mate tea. A bottle of hot water comes on the side which you pour on top to get started. I was told to be sure to only add water on one side so the tea is always fresh.
I tried a flight of their signature drinks and loved the dulce de leche. They have other flavors like lavender, chai and rosa. They also have cold brew and lemonade mixed beverages with the Yerba mate.
The location is right on Garnet in Pacific Beach. The interior is very cute, modern and simple. I loved the patio with the bold colors, cactus and fun chairs. It’s a great spot for breakfast, lunch or anytime you want to kick back and relax with friends.
James and I sat down and learned all about Yerba mate and had a tasting of all the flavors. Yerba Mate is also enjoyed by kids in Argentina. James didn’t like the traditional but he like the chai late. He seemed to like the experience of pouring the water into the tea though so he was making his own by the time we left.
The empanadas are super tasty with flavors like Malbec beef, chicken chipotle and rajas. Their dipping sauces are also delicious. They will also be offering traditional style croissants from Argentina made by a French baker here in San Diego.
If you’re in the area, be sure to stop by for a tasty experience and learn a little about Argentina while you’re there. It’s a cute spot and I’ll be sure to head back soon!
Yerba Mate Bar & Empanadas
956 Garnet Ave
San Diego, CA 92109
