Experience a Tea Fit for a Queen at Bouchee Confections in Reno, Nevada

Bouchee Confections

940 W Moana Ln #102 

Reno, NV 89509

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Bouchee Confections in Reno is a local gem, offering an exquisite selection of handcrafted bonbons, multi layered desserts, and now, handcrafted gelato. They’re one of the few spots in town where you can indulge in a delightful High Tea experience, including house scones, finger sandwiches, desserts, and a variety of loose leaf teas. Their shop also features an array of artisanal treats, including truffles, bark, chocolate bars, and more. 

Reservations for High Tea 

$47/person is an absolute steal!

Or call/text (775) 384-1455 

***You can enjoy loose leaf tea by the pot a la carte any day of the week.

Simply put, "Afternoon Tea (also known as High Tea these days)," a British tradition introduced in the 1840s by the Duchess of Bedford, Anna, was a means to bridge the gap between meals and tame hunger.  

Though there are subtle differences between "High" and "Afternoon" Tea, they have evolved to be used interchangeably as restaurants have found it easy to put the two in the same category for advertising purposes. 

Source of Picture The Spruce

Today, tea is enjoyed as an occasional indulgence, a way to catch up with special friends, and is used to celebrate special occasions. 

Whatever the reason for tea, you can expect to delight in a lovely and cozy setting in which conversations flow easily with dainty sandwiches, premium loose leaf teas, and fine pastries to look forward to.  

I am so excited to announce that we have an amazing tea service here in Reno provided by Bouchee Confections, a craft chocolate shop created and owned by Natalie, a passionate local chocolatier/pastry chef that's trained in France and has years of experience working in professional settings. 

Using quality ingredients, special training, creativity, passion, and patience, Natalie meticulously concocts craft chocolates, and assortment of pastries, and finger sandwiches for her High Tea service, a special experience that elevates any day and occasion.

High Tea in Reno isn’t exactly a common offering, but I’m thrilled to say that Natalie provides one of the few, and it’s nothing short of impressive.

The amazing thing about Bouchee Confections is that High Tea is just one of the many incredible offerings at this delightful shop. Whether you’re stopping by for a latte, a handcrafted dessert, a bonbon, some gelato, or an artisanal gift from the shelves, you’re guaranteed an experience that will wow your eyes and taste buds alike.

I’ve been visiting this shop for years, and Natalie has always been so welcoming and patient with me and my little ones from day one. Being the curious person I am, I can’t help but ask her questions about her craft, especially when something truly wows me (which happens often, HAHA!). Natalie has always been so gracious and happy to share her knowledge. She works tirelessly to ensure her customers have a wide array of desserts to choose from, and it’s a level of dedication that often goes unnoticed.

So, here I am, sharing my gratitude for this incredible shop and the work Natalie pours into it. I hope you’ll make it out to try some of the amazing treats at Bouchee Confections. Life truly feels sweeter with desserts that make your heart and tummy happy.

What to Expect at Bouchee's Tea Service

*Comforting and Tasty Sandwiches  

( menu changes with the seasons) 
My service came with: 

-Herbed egg salad 

-Roast beef, horseradish, and arugula 

-Brie, apple, and prosciutto

They were all so flavorful and delightful.  I kept on taking small bites because I didn't want the magic to disappear. 

*Bottomless Premium Loose Leaf Tea
One flavor per person

They have Green, Black, and Herbal Options

Coffees and Teas sourced from Glory Cloud in Carson City.  They have exceptional craft products and service inside their shop (order drinks while shopping for bags of coffee and tea and learn about their process). 

Their Strawberry Chocolate Pu'erh was BEYOND tasty.  A taste of sophistication. 

*An Assortment of Fine Pastries and Desserts

My service included a piece of divine chocolate, a delicious housemade shortbread cookie, a moist and flavorful scone, a beautiful chocolate-covered strawberry, and a gourmet housemade marshmallow.

*The Best Clotted Cream and Jams

What is Clotted Cream? 

The best thing you can spread onto your made from scratch scone!

Clotted cream is a thick butter made from heavy cream that's been baked for a long time in an oven.  With its long baking time comes the most flavorful type of thickened, earthy, and nutty kind of butter that has bits of explosive flavor in every bite.  

My service came with lemon curd and raspberry jam.  Both were so addicting and when added onto pastries with clotted cream, became an explosion of flavor. 

*Attentative and Friendly Service

*A Mix of Lovely China and Teapots 

Bouchee Confection's Teapots and Plates are absolutely cute and adorable.  These touches make for a fun and charming experience.

Notes
-High Tea includes a two hour dining window
-Enjoy seasonal and holiday themed offerings
-Parking available
-Daily drink offerings feature espresso drinks, matcha lattes, and loose leaf teas.
-Indoor seating is available for a cozy experience
-Be sure to book in advance to secure your High Tea spot as they book out weeks in advance
-Discover additional products like art, candles, and more from local vendors showcased in the shop
-Help support the shop by following on social media, leaving reviews, and sharing it with friends and family

Other Desserts and Treats at the Shop

(Selections may vary by season)

Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate - Crispy Chocolate Cookie Base, Chocolate Almond Sacher Cake, 66% Ecuador Origin Dark Chocolate, Cremeux Milk Chocolate Mousse, Dark Chocolate Glaze.  This is my most favorite dessert in all of Reno that I crave and dream about constantly.  This is every chocolate lover's dream come true.  The crispy chocolate cookie base is a game changer.

Strawberry Pistacio - Pistachio Financier, Strawberry Gelee, Mascarpone Vanilla Mousse, Red White Chocolate Glaze.  This is one of my favorites.  Delicate with so many layers of flavors and textures and supreme pistachio flavor.

Tropical (GF) - Coconut Dacquoise Cake Pineapple Vanilla Compote Mango Coulis Coconut Mousse Yellow White Chocolate Shell Vanilla Whipped Cream, Lime Zest.  This dessert is so refreshing with amazing tropical flavors.  If you're a fan of white chocolate and true tropical flavors, this dessert is for you. 

***All opinions are my own. Information subject to change.*** 

© Photography 

Katherine Fung,

All Rights Reserved.

Categorized Under "Good Eats"---> "High Tea and Tea Shops" & "Desserts"

The Historic Lake Mansion: A Hidden Gem Preserving Reno’s Heritage

250 Court St. 

Reno, NV 89501

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The History of Lake Mansion

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Step Back in History at the Lake Mansion

Standing proudly at 250 Court Street, the Lake Mansion is one of Reno's oldest surviving homes and an important reminder of the city's early beginnings. Over nearly 150 years, the mansion has changed owners, been relocated twice, narrowly escaped demolition, and transformed into a vibrant community arts center. Its story is closely tied to the people who helped shape Reno into the city it is today.

What it Offers
While the mansion itself is not regularly open to the public, it continues to serve as a vibrant hub for creativity and community. Throughout the year, Arts for All Nevada hosts a variety of all-ages art classes, workshops, events and creative programs inside the historic space.

During Reno’s month-long Artown Festival each July, visitors have the special opportunity to step inside the Lake Mansion through free public tours and learn more about its fascinating history, architecture, and role in Reno’s story.

A couple of times a year, they host free family-friendly arts festivals featuring plenty of hands-on art stations where kids can create, explore, and let their imaginations run wild. These events have become some of my favorite experiences to attend with my own kiddos as they've learned so many invaluable art techniques that have inspired their creativity and confidence in so many other areas of life.

Each October, the mansion also transforms for their annual fundraiser.  Like many historic buildings, it requires continuous funding to help preserve its beauty and ensure it remains a place where future generations can experience art, history, and community.

Interested in supporting Lake Mansion?  DONATIONS are always welcome & appreciated.

Reno's Beginning: Lake's Crossing
The story begins in 1861, when businessman Myron C. Lake established a toll bridge across the Truckee River. Known as Lake's Crossing, the small settlement became an important stop for travelers heading west between California and the booming Comstock mining region. At the time, the area was originally called Fuller's Crossing, but Lake's investment in the bridge and surrounding land helped the community grow.

Everything changed in 1868 when Myron Lake sold land to the Central Pacific Railroad for just $200. The railroad chose the site for a new depot, and the settlement officially became the City of Reno. That land sale played a major role in Reno's founding and is one of the reasons Myron Lake is often recognized as the city's founder.

Today, Lake's Crossing is located in the heart of downtown Reno along the Truckee River, near the south end of the Virginia Street Bridge. The exact area where Myron Lake established his toll bridge and settlement is marked by a Nevada historical marker at 150 S. Virginia Street, Reno.

Myron Lake was a complex figure in Reno's early history. While he is credited as one of the founders of Reno for helping establish the town around his Lake's Crossing property and working with the railroad, he was also a controversial businessman. His toll bridge brought him great wealth, but many residents grew frustrated with his control over this important crossing and viewed his business practices as unfair.

Building One of Reno's Finest Homes
Although the home bears Myron Lake's name today, he was not the original owner.

Construction began in 1876, when Washington Jerome Marsh purchased land from Myron Lake and built the elegant Victorian residence at 469 South Virginia Street. Completed around 1877, the home was designed in the popular Italianate architectural style, featuring decorative roof brackets, tall windows, detailed woodwork, and a spacious wraparound porch. At the time, it was considered one of the finest homes in the young city.

Only two years later, in 1879, Marsh and his wife sold the mansion back to Myron Lake, giving the home the name it carries today.

Saving a Reno Landmark
By the late 1960s, rapid redevelopment in downtown Reno threatened many historic buildings, including the Lake Mansion. Rather than watch it be demolished, local preservation advocates worked with the Turrillas family and Home Savings & Loan to donate the building to Washoe Landmark Preservation, Inc.

In 1971, the entire mansion was carefully moved from its original South Virginia Street location to the grounds of the Centennial Coliseum, near today's Reno-Sparks Convention Center. Moving an entire Victorian home weighing approximately 40 tons was an enormous undertaking, but the effort ensured the mansion's survival.

The following year, the Lake Mansion earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its importance to Nevada's architectural and cultural history.

Another Historic Journey
More than three decades later, the mansion made another remarkable trip.

On July 11, 2004, crews transported the building approximately 3.1 miles through Reno's streets to its current home at 250 Court Street, just west of downtown near the Truckee River. Thousands of residents gathered along the route to watch the historic move, which became one of Reno's most memorable preservation events.

The relocation gave the mansion a permanent home in a setting where it could continue serving the community.

A New Chapter as an Arts Center
In 2006, ownership of the mansion was transferred to VSA Arts of Nevada, now known as Arts for All Nevada.

Today, the Lake Mansion has been transformed into a community gathering place where history and creativity come together. Visitors can enjoy rotating art exhibitions, creative workshops, educational programs, community celebrations, weddings, and private events.

Its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, original craftsmanship, and rich history continue to tell the story of Reno's earliest years while inspiring new generations through the arts.

Why Visit the Lake Mansion?

-Historical Significance: Built in 1877, the Lake Mansion is a piece of Reno’s early days, offering a rare chance to step into the city’s heritage.

-Architectural Beauty: This place is a charmer with its Victorian architecture including intricate details and period perfect furnishings that transport you straight back to the 19th century.

-A Building with a Story: Weighing at 40 tons, the Lake Mansion was relocated twice through town, preserving the historic structure from the threat of demolition.

-Location: I don't think there could be a better location for the mansion.  It's surrounded with so much beauty and things to do.

2024 Annual fall fundraiser - Ghostly greeting, spooktacular cocktails, creepy crafting, silent auction, live music & delightful bites.

Notes

-Tours and visitation are available by appointment only.

-After you’ve soaked up the history, take a stroll around the area. There are plenty of other local spots to explore, plus great places to eat and shop.

-Metered parking available in front of Lake Mansion.  With a little effort, you can find free neighborhood parking nearby.

Nearby 

(within walking distance)

*Great Basin Food Co-op  

240 Court St, Reno, NV 89501

Right across the street from the mansion, you’ll find one of Reno’s most beloved local grocery stores. This beloved community gem is a great gathering spot where locals can connect, grab a bite, and enjoy the neighborhood atmosphere.

You’ll find everything from fresh groceries and health and beauty products to an incredible grab and go section filled with sweet and savory options, all made in house with fresh ingredients. I especially love their daily made soups, house burritos, and delicious desserts in a jar. Their chocolate pudding and berry cheesecake are my personal favorites!

*Barbara Bennette Park 

 400 Island Ave, Reno, NV 89501

Just down the street from Great Basin Co-op, Barbara Bennett Park is undoubtedly one of the best spots in Reno to enjoy the Truckee River. Surrounded by grassy areas and shade trees, the park offers a picturesque setting to relax and take in the beauty of the river.

One of the most popular areas is the shallow section in the middle of the river, where visitors love to cool off, splash around, and carefully make their way across the water. The park also features year-round restrooms, a tennis court, playground, and basketball court, making it a great destination for families.

Plus, its convenient location just a short stroll from the heart of the Downtown Riverwalk makes Barbara Bennett Park the perfect place to unwind, enjoy a meal nearby, meet up with friends, and experience the best of downtown Reno.

Nearby Eats

Liberty Food & Wine Exchange

Royce Burger Bar

DOPO Pizza & Pasta

Papa What You Cooking

The Coconut

The Pizza Collective

***Information subject to change.  All opinions are my own.***

Photography

©Katherine Fung

All rights reserved.

Categorized Under "Historical Buildings"