Published January 2 2025
The warm and cozy atmosphere of the place makes it a favorite spot for those who want to take their time, relax and enjoy a moment in complete tranquility. As Marine sums it up so well, her café is "a place where you can really relax, far from the daily stress."
Between passion and conviviality, a tea room like no other in La Roche-sur-Yon
After studying political science, Marine Bouquet quickly realized that this was not the path she wanted to follow and returned to her true passion: pastry. After graduating from ESFORA, she perfected her technique for two years at Spreads and Treats in Mouilleron-le-Captif. Today, at 26, she has opened her own tea room and you will learn everything about how it works…
A dream, an opportunity… the start of a project!
Marine has always dreamed of opening a place that resembles her: a tea room where everyone could have a good time in a friendly atmosphere, tasting good pastries while feeling at home. “The idea of a space where we can share precious moments around a hot drink and sweet treats has always been there, but the project came to fruition when an opportunity arose”she says.
La Roche-sur-Yon, a city she has known since she was 2 years old, seemed like the ideal place. As for the premises, she didn't really look, but when Marine and her mother came across this place, thanks to an ad on the internet, it was love at first sight. After having arranged it to their taste, the project became a reality.
An original concept: participatory library and tea room
The originality of this place lies in the combination of baking and reading.
At the back of the café is a large library with books that customers can read on site or take away. Passionate about large libraries and beautiful books, Marine imagined a place where visitors could sit quietly with a good book, a tea and a pastry. « It's like home, but not home », she sums up. The space invites relaxation, where each client can enjoy a moment of calm, whether alone, with family or friends.
Inspired by the atmosphere of London cafes, Marine also offers the option “Tea Time”, in the afternoon around English products, including teas and typical pastries.
Homemade and local products
Salty side : pies and sandwiches made with local and seasonal products.
Sweet side : fine pastries for lovers of flavors and delicacy, travel cakes (cakes, cookies, cannelés) are also part of the windows. Particular attention is paid to offering less sweet pastries, while remaining gourmet.
The menu changes regularly, offering new recipes each month, depending on the seasons and inspiration. All accompanied by a wide selection of hot drinks: coffee, coffee-based drinks, milky drinks, tea (range of 17 teas). Marine also tries to work as much as possible with local producers, as for her coffee, which comes from the Brûlerie des Olonnes.
Coffee is offered for sale in bulk, packaged by the roaster, while tea is also sold in bulk, with the option to choose the desired quantity at the time of purchase.
To Take Away or On Site, for a Moment of Relaxation
Marine wants to bring back the option of takeaway coffee, especially for people in a hurry, such as workers and students. She would like to democratize this practice, allowing everyone to enjoy a good coffee or a hot drink on the way to work or class.
The café is open to everyone, but is particularly popular with tea, pastry and reading enthusiasts.
The warm atmosphere and personalized welcome make this place a place of relaxation where everyone can take the time to settle down, whether to work, spend time with family or friends.
A constantly evolving project
Although take-out and the possibility of ordering via platforms such as Too Good To Go are not yet in place, Marine is already considering expanding her offer. Projects such as delivery for professionals and individuals or events around reading, such as reading cafés, creative workshops, or baking classes, are currently being considered.
Find her on Instagram !