Based on newspaper articles and dated photographs, the Tea House opened in 1915 and operated until 1936 when the Whitneys bought the property. It was also called the Seal Rock Restaurant. The Ihara family, who operated the restaurant, lived upstairs. The Whitneys demolished it sometime in early ’37 as part of their remodeling of the Cliff House. The Sky Tram depot later occupied the Tea House location.  -- John Martini (12/26/2021)
 

TEA HOUSE

John Martini analysis (4/14/09):  "A U.S. Army soldier in full dress uniform. Probably from the Presidio. It's hard to read the insignia but he appears to be wearing corporal's stripes. Also, the light colored bands on his hat and sleeves might have been yellow, which is the color associated with Cavalry troops. (Artillerymen wore red trim and Infantry soldiers wore blue, both of which would have photographed darker.)"

Judy Cash analysis:  There seems to be a special occasion about to start there, as they are decorating the teahouse with American flags. My estimation of date for this photo is February or March 1915 - possibly opening day of ppie?

Image courtesy of Judy Cash Collection