Love Birds Coffee and Tea Co.  //  Owners Garrett and Jasmin Sanders held the grand opening of Love Birds Coffee and Tea Co. inside Smith Flat House this past September and have been warming hearts and tummies, one steaming mug at a time, ever since. The Italian-themed café—with its checkered tablecloths and hand-drawn chalkboard menus—serves a plethora of tea and espresso drinks, as well as tasty items for both breakfast and lunch, including house-made pastries. Devour a cannoli and cappuccino at one of their cozy tables, or grab a hearty boxed lunch for your trip up to Tahoe. On a recent Sunday morning, I chose a large frothy Latte, made with espresso sourced from direct-trade small coffee farms and co-ops, and settled in for a few moments anticipating my breakfast to come. As I happily sipped, Louis Armstrong crooned over the speakers, but just as I was thinking “what a wonderful world” it is, my House Waffle—made from the Sanders’ homemade batter—arrived in all its glory. Topped with lush blackberries, raspberries and freshly whipped huckleberry cream, the accompanying butter and syrup went nearly untouched, as the balance between the sweet-tart berries and light, fluffy waffle were more than enough to satisfy. The café also offers a selection of specialty coffees and teas to take home. Why not extend the holiday cheer with their winter wonderland blend, aptly named Santa’s Cup? The hearty herbal tea, featuring cinnamon, rooibos, spice and clove, will make you merry and bright all year long. Love Birds Coffee and Tea Co., 2021 Smith Flat Road, Placerville. 530-300-9891.