The 13 best spots for afternoon tea in San Diego

I’m a SD native and came here to listen to jazz. We used to come here to eat back in the day, the hotel is so elegant. The jazz music was wonderful! I also had crab cakes which tasted like they were made with canned crab, but they were ok. The desserts were good and so were the cocktails. The staff are friendly and helpful. We spent a relaxed evening.

Absolutely beautiful hotel with really friendly and helpful staff. We stayed here for four nights whilst in San Diego and loved our stay. The only real room for improvement we found was that the room we were in (1698) could have benefited from some minor TLC as the wallpaper had peeled from the wall in some areas and the shower leaked water (looked like the door was missing a seal at the bottom) HOWEVER these are very minor cosmetic complaints. We would absolutely love to book this hotel again on any future stays. Thank you so much Westgate & San Diego ❤️ - Stephen & Alex

Lovely night at the Westgate, little staycation for us. We took an uber to Michelin Star Lola 55 and came back to hotel to enjoy the rooftop pool and jacuzzi. There was live music in the lobby, so quaint! Loved the cozy robes, and the darling bartender Brandon made sure we were all set up with buckets of beers before he left. We watched the Dodgers win the World Series from the jacuzzi, such an experience! The other hotel guests were lovely and exited to be there. We enjoyed room service with a view from the 18th floor Premier King room. Loved the decor. Very Parisian! Enjoyed the heated pool and jacuzzi with several lounge area options before out late check out. Valet Sam was darling, you can tell he loves his job! Would stay there again and highly recommend the hotel as a top-not h experience.

Omg completely in love with this place. Came to have a little staycation for our anniversary. We were a little nervous and intimidated coming in but the service was very helpful. We were hungry and went to the restaurant for breakfast. Got greeted by everyone. And when we told our server that it was our anniversary he went out of his way to get us the best picture and told us how to pose and everything. Favorite thing is Gabriel(the server) told us " if you wanna make everyone envious tell them you went to paris for your anniversary. They always buy it .

We recently stayed at The Westgate for Comic-Con. If you're familiar with the process, you basically put your name into the hotel lottery and hope for the best, and I definitely got lucky. It was my first time staying here, and hopefully not the last. Every single staff member I interacted with was warm, personable, and genuinely friendly. From the moment we arrived, the valet made us feel welcome and gave us a helpful lay of the land. Meli at the front desk checked us in and patiently answered all our questions. The hotel has a high-end, old-school charm, like something straight out of Mad Men. Our room was impressively spacious, very clean, and surprisingly quiet given the weekend crowd. I sent out for dry cleaning and it came back quicker than expected. When I called to request it, someone came to my room right away, just another example of how responsive the service was. The restaurant and bar were excellent, even though the main dining area was under renovation. If what we experienced was their temporary setup, then I’m excited to see the final version. The burger and stuffed pancakes were both delicious, and the bar served up well-crafted cocktails. I especially liked the Perfect Martini and the French 75 that I ordered. Location-wise, it was ideal for Comic-Con, walkable to the convention center, and also along the official shuttle route. Valet service was quick and efficient, which made things even easier. Considering the hotel was almost certainly at full capacity, the fact that everything ran so smoothly, and with such a personal touch, was genuinely impressive. I’m hoping I get paired with The Westgate again for a future Comic-Con, but even if not, I’ll definitely be returning for a vacation or weekend getaway.

The Westgate stands out as an oasis of luxury, beauty and old fashioned customer service in the heart of the Gaslamp District of San Diego. All Grand America hotels are unusual in that they prioritize luxury, quality and exceptional service. They must be a great place to work too because staff work there for years. I remember Gabriel from my visit to the Westgate 8 years ago and it was so nice to see him again this visit. The rooftop pool is a great spot to swim and great spot to watch both sunrise and moonrise. Brandon at the rooftop pool bar was welcoming and friendly. The rooftop gym is amazing. We had an all around great San Diego visit thanks to the Westgate.

Cruel, Unprofessional, and Unfit for Hospitality I stay at the Westgate San Diego often for work, and this was by far the worst experience I’ve ever had at a hotel. Three out of four elevators were out of service, and it took me over 15 minutes just to get downstairs. That alone was stressful enough, but the real problem was the front desk staff member (who seemed to be a manager). When I called to ask about the elevators, he answered with pure attitude instead of helping. Then, when I got downstairs to quickly buy an Evian water before heading to the airport, he intentionally dragged out the process. He kept saying things like “I entered my password wrong” or “I clicked the wrong thing,” wasting more and more time even though he already knew I was late because of the elevators. To make it worse, he claimed he couldn’t process my contactless payment until I told him if my card was Visa or Mastercard. That’s simply not true, I’ve paid for water here many times before without being asked that. The whole interaction felt cruel, like he went out of his way to make me miss my flight. Traveling for work is stressful enough. It’s not my fault the elevators were broken, but being treated this way by someone in hospitality is unacceptable. Just because I’m not personally swiping a credit card for the room doesn’t mean I deserve less respect, my employer pays for me to stay here, and we should all be treated as valued guests. This staff member either needs serious customer service training or should not be in that position at all. Hospitality is about helping people, not punishing them. If this is the behavior of a manager, then Westgate San Diego has a serious customer service problem.

Had so much fun. We tried 4 different teas and they were so delicious. Food was good. Atmosphere great. Everyone was sweet and helpful. Got some loose leaf tea to take home.

We loved this experience. First time here, and I must say, It was a beautiful afternoon with great service and even better food. The selection of teas is extensive. The teas we chose were wonderful. We bought some loose leaf teas to bring home. We will definitely be back.

I ordered tea sandwiches, savory and sweets for my granddaughter's Anne of Green Gables themed birthday party. The Grand Tea Room was so wonderful to deal with, supplying a tiered serving tray and directions on how to heat the savory. Everything was delicious! I was happy to hear that they weren't negatively impacted by the Grand Avenue construction and are very happy with the results. Parking was so easy and they have more outdoor seating now. I'm looking forward to taking my granddaughter to tea and to see The Little Princess in a few weeks!

I was lucky to have my bridal shower here and it was amazing. The staff were very accommodating and friendly and made sure everything went well. The owner and her daughter were amazing! The staff amazing! I highly recommend you host your next event here. I’m a frequent customer and recommend this place to all my girlfriends. Best High Tea in San Diego.

Very fun experience. All the teas we tried were great. We had a group of 12 and they were able to accommodate us. The sandwiches, quiche and scones were delicious. The desserts were the perfect size and were delicious as well.

We did the full afternoon tea and I had a lot of fun and I left super full. The best bites were the soups and the scones.

Always love taking my mom and sister here for a cute little luncheon! They have so many different teas to choose from, and the tea sandwiches are delicious! It might seem like a small amount of food but I am always full after the fruit salad, soup, tea sandwiches, scones, and dessert tray (it’s more than enough! We always have leftovers we take home). I truly cannot recommend this place enough, if you are looking for a cutesy place with Bridgerton vibes, this is definitely worth it.

I recently took my girlfriends, who were visiting from out of town, for a delightful Afternoon Tea experience. We truly savored our time together in this charming establishment, an ideal setting for a ladies' day out. As we settled into our cozy table, we were enveloped by a warm ambiance that encouraged conversation and laughter. The selection of teas was impressive, offering a delightful array of flavors, each served alongside an exquisite assortment of pastries and finger sandwiches, beautifully presented on tiered stands. Nestled within the picturesque historic district of Old Town, the venue's quaint surroundings added to the overall charm, making our afternoon enjoyable and memorable as we indulged in conversation and culinary treats.

I took my daughter (4) and my mom to tea for their birthday and it was such a wonderful and cozy authentic afternoon tea. We were given several amazing teas and the food was delightful and delicious. A lot of time and thoughtful preparation was put into every aspect of tea. The house adds charm to the experience. My daughter was given a special, fun plate of kid friendly treats and sandwiches. She also was given her own tea pot of apple juice when she had her fill of hot tea. I would highly recommend visiting the Coral Tree Tea House for a fun, authentic, relaxing and sweet experience. The staff was also so kind and caring and even sang their own rendition of "happy birthday". The experience was exceptional from start to finish. We will be back!

Our reserved group had nine people. We were seated in the front room next to the little shop. Pam and Blanche were our guides and there was also a gentleman. The ladies were so sweet, took our photos, and told us some interesting history. First, we were given the house tea, Coral Tree Tea. Second, we picked two more as a table. Third, we were given a three tier plate offering savory and sweet treats. They gave us a bracelet and showed us a coin. There is one bathroom in the building. I hope to return. I think it would be so fun to work here!

I came for a party and had a lovely time. The house is beautiful and all of the decor is very cute. The ladies who worked there were all sweet, helpful, and very attentive. We did the Afternoon Tea menu and everything was delicious. It was plenty of food for everyone to have a nice lunch. We tried three different teas and liked all of them. My favorite was the Paris. The only negatives were it was quite warm in there (stuffy and you got pretty hot after drinking all that hot tea, it was a beautiful day outside so if they just opened a window it would've been fine) and the booking process. They only accept reservations over the phone and if they don't answer you have to leave a message, but sometimes the mailbox is full, so you end up playing phone tag. It didn't cause issues for us other than the reservation process taking much longer than just booking online. I suppose it can be seen as part of the charm.

Located in beautiful Heritage Park, a charming historic area in Old Town, you will find this gem of a tea house. I’ve been to pretty impressive afternoon teas while living in Japan, so I was a little reluctant but I’m glad I was proved wrong. The ladies who manage this establishment take pride in serving you and make everything homemade in their vintage kitchen- from the fresh cream to the scones, to the warm spanakopita and tea sandwiches. Savory and sweet tea pastries, with your choice of two different teas, makes for a wonderful time with friends. It was fun to dress up and really absorb the experience. I highly recommend! A few things to note and be aware of: They change their menu monthly (I believe), they have ample parking, you must make a reservation and leave a deposit, the space inside of the tea house is extremely small and tight. You will be very close to the guests next to you. There was a large party when we visited and the room was filled with laughter and conversation throughout our dining experience. Dress up and plan for some extra time to walk the grounds- the homes are fascinating and charmingly picturesque.

I absolutely loved this tea house. One of the best ones I've been to. The ladies who run it are simply delightful. I enjoyed the stories they shared. They allowed us to bring our dogs and sit on the front porch and it was a beautiful, peaceful view. The scones were my favorite. I never would've chosen a chocolate coconut tea off a menu, so it's smart to make that the house tea. It was surprisingly delicious. I also ordered Lucy's and my mom chose Creme Brulee, both were great.

Amazing customer service from the get-go, Pam squeezed us in last minute and was absolutely delightful to speak with. Traditional tea treats were served in a most beautiful historic home and district. Everything was thoughtfully set up and no detail was spared providing my daughters and I a most memorable afternoon tea! We'll definitely be back!

I took my mother here for her birthday. The aesthetic is perfectly her style 🥰 This is High Tea, with two seatings, 11:00 and 2:00 for a flat fee. Included is unlimited tea, a soup and your three-tier service of tea sandwiches, mini puff pastries, an apple cinnamon scone (with clotted cream), a few pieces of fruit, and mini desserts. The scone was moist, flaky, and out of this world good! I honestly didn’t know they could be that good 😅 The service is wonderful! They are all very attentive, polite and accommodating. The food is fresh and full of love & care. I would definitely come back for a girlie treat 💕 (The price makes it more of a treat)

Absolutely stunningly beautiful place with amazing service. That she options were plentiful and delicious. The food was also all delicious It just leans heavy on the sweets and not as heavy on the savory so we still felt a little hungry afterwards. It's a bit on the more expensive side of tea houses but still worth it for how nice and high-end it is. Dress fancy and go enjoy yourself!

Marlene's Tea & Cakes is a hidden gem, not complicated to get to for North County folks, and they have plenty of parking! We had a wonderful experience with "Afternoon Tea!" Calm, soothing atmosphere and the food options (sandwiches & sweets) were all delicious! They have a vegetarian option as well. Reservations are a MUST!

I would like to think the pictures I posted say it all! However, they don't tell you about the exquisite taste and exceptional service. Everything from the service, decor, china, tea selections, and food make the entire experience unforgettable. They have inside seating and patio seating, we went on such a beautiful day, which added to the ambiance. Even on a cold and rainy day you can sit on the patio and keep dry with a tent and warm with space heaters. I have been to other afternoon tea establishments from old town San Diego to Beverly Hills, Marlene's Tea & Cakes is one of the best. The recipes are all her own and made in house. You can tell everything is made with love, which is evident in every bite. The only thing that made this experience even better was when Marlene came out to greet us, she is such a beautiful person that makes you feel like you were invited into her home for afternoon tea. I would also like to recognize her staff, I was only able to get the name of one of the ladies, Alma, but all of them were wonderful. This is a treasure to experience in the heart of San Diego, I will definitely be back!

Super cute environment and area. Delicious food and tea. Good service from staff. My first time to tea ever, as I was skeptical for the price and the amount of food you receive and also not a huge tea person, but I will admit it was all great! Tea’s we’re delicious and had so many different varieties. The food was delicious! I left full (not having eaten before hand) and even had to take a couple desserts home. The scones inexplicably delicious! Overall would recommend trying!

This was our first Afternoon Tea. We received an invitation to Marlene's as a Christmas gift, and we weren't sure what to expect. This whole experience was great! First impression started outside with a very peaceful garden, then as we stepped inside, the music was calming. We enjoyed 3 different types of tea, and they offered more but we all liked what we had. The first course was a delicious tomato soup. Then out comes the 3 tier tray with the other courses. The savory tray had onion quiche, beef Wellington, and 3 different types of sandwiches. The scones, on the second tier were better than any scone we have ever had. And the dessert was the topper to the whole experience! There were 4 different sweet treats, and even though I'm not big on sweets, I had my full share of these delectable treats! This was our first experience, but hopefully not our last! Everything is made in house with only the best ingredients. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Just had a beautiful afternoon tea at Marlene’s today and it was so beautiful and well set up, everything was so detailed and stunning! The tea and food was super tasty ! Service was amazing as well very welcoming and accommodating. The owner marlene was also an absolute joy and i will definitely be back for my next special occasion.

We came to the Grand Del Mar for our anniversary. The property is beautiful. The pools were nice, the room was lovely and comfortable. We had lovely dining experiences at Amaya with respect to the wait staff and they also brought us drinks and a dessert to celebrate our anniversary. The steak was not, however, worth the price in our opinion. Unfortunately, the overall experience was not quite what we expected from a resort of this caliber. For instance, there was no sunscreen at the pool either day after we were told there would be. The service at the pool was incredibly slow. It took upwards of 40 min to get chips and dip. The second day we were at the pool, there were no cups out at the water dispensers at the pool and the water clearly had not been changed from the day before as it was close to empty. When pool service started at 11, we asked for water right away. We were told they would be coming around with water shortly. I watched the waiter take water to most other people but not us. My husband finally got up and found the pitcher himself after we waited at least 20 minutes. Another strange thing that happened was that someone came to check our minibar around 6 pm in the evening when we were getting ready for dinner. Our room had not been ready until about 4, so it was surprising they needed to get in so soon after to check something. We used spa services the first day we were there and our massages were amazing. The facilities were nice. However, no one told us there was a co-ed relaxation area, so we waited separately before our massages. My husband had to go out and ask for assistance after waiting awhile in the locker area not knowing how anything worked. Overall, we did enjoy our stay. All of these little concerns though would give us pause in a booking a future stay. We have been to other luxury resorts in the area and have experienced better customer service and care elsewhere.

My recent stay at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the warmth, professionalism, and genuine care every team member showed. A special mention goes to Dylan and Nok at the front desk — their gracious attitude, attentiveness, and friendly energy made me feel immediately welcomed and valued. They went above and beyond to ensure every detail of my stay was perfect, embodying the spirit of true five-star service. Even when a minor issue came up with the toilet flush, housekeeping responded promptly and efficiently, resolving it within minutes — a testament to the property’s dedication to excellence and seamless guest experience. From the immaculate grounds and luxurious ambiance to the impeccable customer service and heartfelt hospitality, every moment at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar exceeded my expectations. This resort doesn’t just offer luxury — it delivers genuine care and flawless service that make you want to return again and again. Highly recommended to anyone looking for an unforgettable stay in San Diego!

Was amazed at the beauty of the massive grounds of this property. Very green and lush everywhere. Views everywhere of the stunning lawns and open areas. The umbrellas all over the property are stunning ! Loved the bocce ball area and the pickle ball courts and of course the gorgeous golf course that surrounds the 400 acres. Loved our large patio with the fire pit where we enjoyed every evening and morning. The food was lacking, but Del Mar and Solana Beach restaurants are so close, and have sunset views so it wasn’t a big deal to us . Also the rooms are big and comfy but could use an update but they were very clean, bed so comfy and never been in a hotel so quiet in the room at night . We stayed in a Vista Suite and it was super nice with mini kitchen and mini fridge and table to play games or eat. We will be back!

I had high expectations for what was advertised as a 5-star luxury hotel, but what I experienced was anything but luxurious. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this property is not equipped to handle the level of service and hospitality it promises. Staff & Service: The staff across the entire property were incredibly slow and inattentive. From check-in to room service and everywhere in between, we were met with long waits, lack of communication, and a general sense of disorganization. It didn’t feel like a luxury experience – it felt like they were understaffed and overwhelmed. Dining Options: There was only one main restaurant on-site, which is baffling for a resort claiming to be five-star. The menu was extremely limited, uninspired, and repetitive. The kids’ menu was even worse – the same four items were offered everywhere: in the restaurant and by the pool. No variety, no thoughtfulness, just the bare minimum. Event Experience – Wedding Disaster: We were attending a wedding during our stay and were horrified to find the ballroom’s A/C wasn’t working. The room was hot, stuffy, and completely unpleasant. The air quality was so bad that even the staff working the event looked visibly distressed and uncomfortable. It completely ruined what should have been a beautiful celebration. Fire Alarm Incident: As if that wasn’t enough, the fire alarm went off for no apparent reason during our stay. Security evacuated the entire building, which is understandable, but when I explained that my baby was upstairs in our room, they refused to let me go to her. I was forced to wait in a chaotic and stressful situation, not knowing if she was okay. My older daughter suffered a panic/anxiety attack during the ordeal, and there was little to no support or empathy from the staff. Overall Experience: This stay was not just disappointing — it was stressful, chaotic, and unacceptable on so many levels. This hotel is not ready to carry a 5-star label, and I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing or safe stay. We left more exhausted and distressed than when we arrived. Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1 out of 5) Do yourself a favor and book elsewhere.

A Memorable Stay During Our Daughter’s Move-In at UC San Diego My wife, eldest daughter, and I had the pleasure of staying at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar last week while moving our daughter into UC San Diego — and the experience was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, the service was top-notch. A special thank you to Sage, Guest Services Supervisor, who gave us a warm and thoughtful welcome. We also appreciated the professionalism and hospitality of Nenad, Nathan, and Amanda in the executive office — they truly made us feel at home. The accommodations were excellent, and the adult spa pool team provided engaging, attentive service that elevated our relaxation time. It was also a pleasure to meet Swamy, Director of Engineering, who was actively out on the property ensuring everything was running smoothly — a great sign of leadership. And a shoutout to Shea, Food & Beverage Manager, whom I met while enjoying a morning coffee — your passion for hospitality shines through. Thank you to the entire team for making our stay so memorable. Keep up the great work — we look forward to returning!

2025-10. Hello, we celebrated our Anniversary at the Fairmont Amaya restaurant and we sat outside which was wonderful. The atmosphere and sunny weather was excellent. Our son visited us from LA and treated us to their Sunday Brunch. Unfortunately, the food was not very good. My wife had the Benedict which had crab meat which tasted like it was out of a can, and not very fresh. We also ordered bread and it was burnt black and not eatable. They took it away and brought back bread which was hard and not eatable too. The other dishes were ok but not Fairmont calibre. The service was good, our son liked the smoothie, and the coffee was excellent. Hopefully we can try it again and try other dishes and return it if not satisfied. We probably should have complained when we tasted the food. Hope this review helps.

This hotel is beyond amazing from the style of the hotel and rooms to the staff. The staff were all friendly, helpful and caring. The valet team made sure to make us feel welcomed on arrival and even every day as we went and came back to the hotel. The front desk team were beyond amazing, professional and accommodating. Any issues were taken care of promptly. The hotel exudes elegance and class. The food was tasty and significant in portion. I can honestly say no other hotel is at the level of Fairmont Grand Del Mar- we will be back for sure!

My first experience at a tea room. I had zero expectations and I liked it. As a guy I felt the portions were small and it was very expensive. Looking back though, it was a good experience, I loved the tea variety that was presented to me. Probably some of the best tea I had. EVER. Overall, I had fun and look forward to having another tea room experience.

It was cute inside, the employees for the most part were helpful and kind. We did go later, so they may have just been ready to get out and go home; I wouldn’t blame them. ( Positives ) - themed teas, not a bad price. - attentive to allergies - food was ok, I had my favorites, so the options presented to you was nice. ( Negatives ) - location - only given water at the beginning - variety of deserts - feeling rushed out

An authentic British afternoon tea room experience. From its cozy timeless foyer furniture to the gift shop you will feel as if you have crossed the pond for a sip and savor experience. The staff is well trained and very attentive. Single clients get the same service as large parties. The quality of the food is top notch! Many many tea flavors to choose from. They have a large free parking lot and there is some free street parking too. I think it is a must do afternoon culinary experience!

What an indulgent lunch spot! Come hungry and ready for tea. There are so many different teas to choose from on the tea menu: black, green, white, herbal, iced, you name it! The names of the teas are very cute and creative. The tea pots are quite large but you are allowed to ask for another type of tea if you want to try another. Don’t be deceived by the size of the sandwiches and treats; altogether they are very filling! The menu is set so you don’t get to/have to choose what to eat, just what to drink. So much fun to come with family, friends, or on a date. Worth the high price if you’re a tea lover! Staff were very helpful and friendly. Bathrooms are clean and themed :)

We booked a long table for seven people at The Britannia Tearooms that has been around since 2000, which is now 25 years old. The menu changes with the seasons. We paid a total of 500 US dollars, which is about 72 dollars per person. The afternoon tea set included a variety of items such as salads, savory snacks, fruits, and desserts. Each person could choose their favorite tea. The table was beautifully decorated in a very British style, making it hard to resist taking pictures. There was a chessboard on the ceiling and a picture of Alice in Wonderland hitting her head on the ceiling. The bathroom was also full of details, which made it feel like someone was watching you while you were using the toilet, which was a bit strange. Overall, it was a very relaxing and enjoyable experience to come here with friends for a casual get-together.

UPDATE 3/30/25 I made reservations online and told them about the special occasion we were celebrating. There are vegetarian options also. We were celebrating my friend's birthday. The staff came out with a lit tiny cupcake and sang happy birthday. Roman (pictures) was our server. We came early and should have looked at their extensive tea list. Each of us picked a different tea so we could try them. One friend got a green tea, I got the French vanilla black tea, and the other friend got white ginger mango tea. They were all fun to try. Then we tried the mimosas with the rose, pomegranate orange, orange, and hibiscus. We liked them in that order. If I got it again, I'd get the mango or plain prosecco. They were served with edible mini daisies. The stew with the tiny leaf croissant was lovely. It would have been even better with a thicker broth and a softer ground beef. The veggies were perfect. Then the tiered plate came out with the vegetarian goodies on top, separated. The sandwiches, sausage roll, and open faced toast with egg salad on it was amazing. We loved the ham sandwich with the pickle spread. The cucumber sandwich was melt in your mouth. Our favorite was the chicken salad sandwich. The dragon cheese and mustard open faced sandwich was interesting, we liked everything. Our raisen scone that was delicious. The cream, lemon curd, and strawberry and rhubarb jam was divine. Strawberries, blackberries, and grapes were also served with it. Finally, we had a banana dessert (unfortunately two folks had hair in theirs), a lemon cupcake and a cardamom shortbread with chocolate on it. We were stuffed and saw that some people were taking to go containers. I regret not bringing home some scones. The bathroom was clean and had about three stalls. There was only an air dryer. Lots of free parking available. We can't wait to come again! Last time: The door said that they close at 4 pm, but that means only seating. I got there about 4:30 PM and am glad I walked in. The young dark haired woman (from the south of the USA, Anika) was so helpful and gave me a menu pamphlet for future month menus. She told me about the upcoming Agatha Christie murder mystery which will be in mid April. The place had a fun vibe and was clean. They have goodies to buy at the front and in the back there is a little store. My workmate loves tea and cats and they had some tea towels, mugs, and a variety of teas. It was fun shopping! The only thing missing were the English chocolates and toffees that would have been fun to include in the gift. The saleswoman explained that they have them at their other shop. I think they would be a hit here! I was scouting it out for a girl's birthday tea and it looks like it will be a great place to try. I especially was impressed with the way they greeted me when I entered, gave recommendations, and we're not too busy with closing to offer more information. I bought a sausage roll and a different grandma's savory pie. I can't wait to try them. I wish they would have had some hot to order like they do at their other location. We are excited to come back. There is parking, tight spots, but plenty. It's on a corner so getting there may mean a Uturn.

First time at a tea party, and it was fantastic! We enjoyed afternoon tea with an Alice in Wonderland theme. We all dressed up as different characters, and there were even games and trivia. The food was also themed and delicious. We had two young girls in our party and they provided kid friendly eats for them too. I recommend this experience!

We visited this restaurant on a Saturday to celebrate my son’s birthday. The venue is visually impressive, with a lively atmosphere and a strong sense of energy that explains its popularity. The wait for a table was just over an hour for a party of four. In terms of the menu, vegan options were limited. I selected the pancakes, which arrived in a generous portion. Unfortunately, the texture was very dense, making them difficult to enjoy, and I was unable to finish the dish. The coffee, however, was very good, and nondairy milk was available. Service was adequate but unremarkable. While staff acknowledged our birthday celebration with a glitter-infused shot, only one was brought to the table, which felt like an incomplete gesture for a group of four. Overall, while the atmosphere was enjoyable and my son appreciated the experience, the quality of the food and the service details suggest there is room for improvement.

Alright this is a bit of a hard one. We visited twice during Twitchcon weekend. Once on Thursday morning, and then once on Tuesday afternoon. Thursdays visit was very pleasant, delicious food, excellent service, and good drinks. Tuesday however, the day I write this, for some reason had a completely different vibe. Despite ordering the same dish, it was drastically different. I enjoyed their Steak and Eggs on my first visit, but upon second review my steak was tough and chewy, with fried onions that were completely soggy with grease. The “dirty” hash-browns gravy was thick and tasted of cream and the bottom of someone’s shoe. I really dislike leaving negative reviews, but I was really disappointed with our second visit, especially with such a stellar performance the first time around. Overall? This may be a hit or miss venue, with some stellar items and some that may fail to meet expectations. Unfortunately the bad experience sort of rained on our last day together. Not to mention syrup is a $5 up charge on dishes that really need it.

They definitely pass the vibe check! So beautiful inside. Great music. Amazing staff. The food & drinks are so fire. The steak and eggs are my favorite. The fried rice smacks! The soufflé pancakes- DELICIOUS! The staff is so friendly and welcoming. Kailee was our server on our first visit. She was a delight. Our experience was so great that we doubled back a second day (before leaving SD). Jacob’s service was wonderful as well. It was a true pleasure meeting Thomas too! Very friendly & made us feel like part of the family. Can’t wait to visit again when I’m in San Diego!

Great brunch place! They have some very interesting options to choose from and does not restrict itself to one type of cuisine. The khachapuri and the lobster omelet both were pretty good. The best dish we had was the souffle pancakes, it was very gooey,warm in the middle and was very well made. A must try if you are a brunch lover. The restaurant doesn't take reservations and you have to be there to get on the list. Also the wait time can be pretty high and we had to wait 35 minutes to get in.

I visited this charming restaurant with a lovely pink-themed interior that gives off a soft, welcoming vibe. The ambience is one of the highlights—really pretty and perfect for a casual brunch outing. It’s the kind of place you want to spend time in, soaking up the atmosphere. That said, be prepared for a bit of a wait—our turn took about an hour in the wait-list, which could be a dealbreaker if you’re really hungry or in a rush. The food was an absolute delight. The souffle pancakes were the standout—fluffy, light, and they practically melt in your mouth. Definitely the highlight of the meal! We also tried their orange and vanilla hot chocolate, which was comforting and a lovely twist on the classic. It had a nice balance of sweetness and flavor, perfect for sipping while relaxing. We also opted for Khachapuri, which was a nice, fulfilling addition. The cheesy, doughy goodness really hit the spot and felt hearty without being too heavy. The only downside was the service—the staff seemed quite busy and not very attentive. It wasn’t bad, but there’s definitely room for improvement in that area. Overall, I’d still recommend this place for a leisurely brunch. Great ambience, good food, and a menu that offers a nice mix of comfort and novelty.

This was an interesting experience. The service was fantastic in my opinion. Attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly. They did joke around which was fun because I hate getting a robot when trying to order food. I ordered the morning wood old fashioned, and the chilaquiles with Birria on top. The old fashioned was perfect. It had a nice blueberry flavor you could just taste a hint of. I loved it! The chilaquiles were good, not great but good. They had a decent flavor and the chips were cooked extremely nice! However the problem I ran into was the Birria, this might have been the most bland pile of meat I’ve ever had. Even my girlfriend hated it. I had to pull it off and put it on the side of the plate. I don’t know if this was just a bad day for their Birria, but I won’t even give it another chance that’s how bad it was. Overall id come back again, the service was great, drinks were on point, and the food minus one thing was excellent. I’d love to give their other foods a chance.

This establishment is undeniably an “experience” destination, and it’s easy to see why it has earned a place on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list. The art deco–inspired design creates a charming, almost whimsical atmosphere that feels both stylish and inviting. Service, too, had its bright spots—our server Linda was attentive, warm, and truly a highlight of the visit. As for the food, the results were more uneven. The iced coffees arrived only after our dishes had already been served, an oversight that dulled what should have been a seamless start. The soufflé pancakes, however, were exceptional—delicately airy, beautifully presented, and worth the visit alone. A side of sausage, on the other hand, was unfortunately overcooked, sacrificing flavor and texture. The breakfast fried rice leaned heavily on salt, though with the addition of chili paste it transformed into a vibrant, balanced, and memorable dish. It’s a small adjustment the kitchen should consider, as it would elevate the plate significantly. In the end, the restaurant dazzles with atmosphere and has the potential to deliver truly standout dishes. Yet the inconsistencies in execution left me wishing the culinary experience matched the excellence of the setting.

Excellent food and service! Marco was exceptional managing the restaurant, and James our waiter was excellent. We tried various menu items, with the prime rib dip and fish and chips —both delicious and excellent! Marco also helped me get a personalized cook book signed by Chef Blais and in perfect time for a Father’s Day gift! We will def be back.

Absolute gem for afternoon tea! Portions were perfect—no one felt stuffed, but no one left hungry either. We went for a girls’ afternoon to celebrate my friend’s upcoming wedding, and the staff couldn’t have been more wonderful. They explained everything in detail, checked in just the right amount, and even surprised us with a cake and sparkler for the bride-to-be, which made the whole evening feel extra special. The food was delicious (I’m still dreaming about that scone), and the atmosphere was cozy yet elegant. We loved it so much I came back for a dinner date with my husband, and the service and food were equally amazing. Beautifully decorated, great vibe, and something for everyone—highly recommend!

Excellent service in an open, airy, modern environment with unique and tasty English - California fusion cuisine. The duck pasty was a heavy pastry similar to an empanada, filled with flavorful, tender duck confit and served with chutney. The saltiness of the pasty offset with the sweet chutney was delicious. The beet salad offered a nice balance of earthy sweetness from the beets balanced with cotija cheese and ground nuts. The dish was brought to perfection with a tiny bit of heat and cool aromatic micro cilantro. For dessert I enjoyed the fresh berries with a rich, thick, sweet cream and meringue pieces. Portions are large. They also serve high tea.

I walked in, looked around & immediately thought that's a turn-up for the books. I was totally surprised at how delightful & uplifting A. E. was. A perfect mix from across the pond: their entree choices + *tea/booze - service*, the Cali green vibe with outdoor space, everything was posh, delightful & charming. The food holds it own in flavors, options & presentation. I'm definitely coming here more often.

Great dinner at California English! Beautiful restaurant, love the mint green color palette and all the plants. All the food was amazing, we started with the hamachi crudo and for entrees had the salmon and short rib. The service was excellent; friendly and accommodating. The food came out relatively quick. Dog friendly! Lots of indoor and outdoor seating, looks great for events too. Recommend!

Great restaurant in Sorrento Valley. I stopped in for a late night decaf coffee based on a Google review. The menu looks fantastic but I wasn't that hungry. I had the stadium style hand pie from the appetizer menu. It was delicious! I'll probably come back with my wife for dinner or brunch with the family. Give it a try!

You won’t be sorry if you try this delicious place . Relaxing surroundings, amazing staff and awesome happy hour . All the drinks were perfectly crafted . Try the scotch egg. Try the scones . Try everything ! I suggest making reservations.

This hotel is iconic so I had to scratch the itch. Although a gem, with great service and an excellent restaurant, it needs, like a month long deep cleaning. The pool needs a redo. The pool attendant is a very nice, hard working guy. I realize it was mid August when I stayed, understanding the summer rush can be brutal, but my little eye could spy details like unnoticed trash in the chaise lounges and around the pool bushes. The pool bar and spa need a lot of work, gardening needs, in the room maybe a carpet cleaning, unclog the bathroom sink, give us a newer couch, (kind of tired in the rooms). Good linens and bed, thank you! . . . Overall, the charm & location is unrivaled. Perhaps that is why management doesn’t think they need to pay too much attention to deep cleaning.

My wife and I fell in love with LaValencia a few years ago, and were delighted when our daughter Brittany and her husband Brandon decided to have their wedding there this September. From our first interaction with Bobby Fader, LaValencia's Director of Catering, he was a complete professional, and his assistant Dani was attentive, knowledgeable and amazing. As we live in the Chicago area and the bride and groom in L.A., their referrals for local florists, venues for after party and talent were all top notch. The day of the wedding we were so very well taken care of, with Dani seemingly everywhere at one time! We are so very grateful to the entire staff for helping us to put together this dream wedding, and we recommend LaValencia for anyone who wants to have an amazing event in one of the most beautiful venues in California.

La Valencia delivers. The location is ultra-walkable to downtown La Jolla, shopping, dining, and scenic walk to the cove. We booked an ocean-view suite sight unseen. Upon check-in, we were surprised there was no balcony and I would call our view "parking/rooftop view with ocean behind and to the far right"...but.... here is the good stuff. The Cove is a nice walk away down on-property stairs and an access controlled street gate. A huge park is between the hotel and the ocean. It is a nice place to walk and check out the sea lions. Lots of restaurants, hair salons, shopping, ice cream, and dining within a close walk. We went to the hotel table seating room for drinks and small bites. Had a few excellent rum runners and also got shrimp cocktail, hummus, and charcuterie. All excellent. Room was ready over an hour early which was nice. We had to check out super early 04:30 and valet parked our car out front...super convenient and much appreciated. Suite: decent, comfy, single sink and single restroom, no balcony, oceanview technically correct but not an amazing view. Room could have been cleaner. Shoes stuck to the floor in some spots. Clean and comfy bed. Dining/drinks: 10 out of 10. Fun date location with the wife. Got to chill and unwind with great drinks and bites. Location: crazy good. Service: great

A Unique and Dog-Friendly Gem The staff at La Valencia are incredibly kind, professional, and respectful. This hotel is truly dog-friendly — at check-in they even put my dog’s name on the reservation, which made us feel so welcome. They even have a special dog menu! The food is beautifully presented, and the architecture is stunning, with traditional Spanish touches and gorgeous ceramic tiles on the walls. It feels like a one-of-a-kind place, full of charm and character. Totally recommendable for anyone visiting La Jolla.

The rooms are kind of old, AC won't get you cold. The beds are okay. The shower is nice. The water took forever to get hot. The location is beautiful though. Great place to stay if you don't care about the hotel too much.

We came for lunch. We have been to La Valencia many times both for just a meal and to stay for a couple of days. Yesterday we came just for lunch. I ordered the soup and when it came there was an audible gasp at the table. The soup came in a bowl that only held four ounces of soup. There was one piece of chicken. There were no crackers, no bread nothing. When I left I was hungry. I love the La Valencia. The service was great, but I feel the price and the amount of food was unconscionable. I was really kind of angry when I left. I will have to think long and hard about coming for a meal again.

Stayed here because of an American Express deal. I was hoping for a great view on the ocean side but I was on the street shops side. Oh well. At least it was quiet. Or maybe it was the loud HVAC that was drowning out all other sounds. The restaurant was decent. The poke nachos were a messy presentation, could be improved. Room service was good. If you call before 7 am, they will get your breakfast to you shortly after they open which is great. The best thing about this hotel, was I got in early and they actually accommodated the early check in option which I very much appreciate. Things to improve on: front desk didn't go over the american express deal which every other hotel goes over, talking about amenities. Front desk day 2 guy didn't know about putting the breakfast order in early.

Nice view of all the pastries in the front. We ordered the Mixed Berry Greens (greens, butter leaf lettuce, berries, feta, pistachios and raspberry vinaigrette), a Lemon Square and Carrot Cake. I am not the biggest raspberry vinaigrette person but I did enjoy the salad a lot. Also I like the Carrot Cake but my partner did not like the fruit sauce on the bottom. I do have to say it overpowered the Carrot Cake flavor. Overall food was ok, but employees were nice!

I honestly like the 1st location better. The outside sitting and just the over all environment. We stop at this location quite late in the evening and the dessert selection was not the great. Most of the items were not available. My husband got a lemon slice but it was too sweet. I got a strawberry truffle and we really didn’t care for the filling. In the past we really enjoyed eating dessert because they were not sweet at all . Hopefully it was because we didn’t eat what we usually order. We really enjoyed the lattes.

We stopped by Extraordinary Desserts to try a couple of small desserts. The presentation was definitely a highlight—each treat looked stunning, almost too pretty to eat. The portion sizes were reasonable, though the pricing felt a bit on the higher side for what we got. Not outrageous, but not exactly budget-friendly either. While the variety was impressive, the actual flavors didn’t blow me away. They were enjoyable, but not particularly memorable. The experience was nice, just not as extraordinary as the name might suggest. One downside was the wait. There was a decent line, and ordering took a bit longer than expected. If you’re visiting, plan for a little extra time. Overall, a good place if you’re looking for beautiful desserts with plenty of choices, but not necessarily a must-visit if flavor is your top priority.

Exceptional and extraordinary desserts. Cakes are over the top in flavor and texture. However they seem to be a bit understaffed or not on top of drink orders. We ordered drinks to go with our cake slices and they seemed to have completely forgotten about them. If we had not flagged them, I don’t think we would have gotten them. Make sure if you get drinks, to proactively check in.

This place is fancy with delicious desserts at reasonable prices. We went here around 7 or 7:30pm on a Saturday night and it was pretty packed, but we were still able to find a table for 2. They have so many options to choose from and the ambiance is a great place for a date or a hangout spot with family and friends. I'm not really a cake person, but the blood orange ricotta came with some sort of red and a yellow drizzle that tasted so good. The begat strawberry raspberry scone was a little dry, and so adding the drizzle to that really elevated the flavor. Vegan strawberry raspberry scone: 4.5/5 Blood orange ricotta: 5/5

Best place for dessert, everything there is perfect, a lot to choose from. All beautiful and so delicious. We got 4 slices of cake all was good . My favorite was the strudel it all good . There mint tea also good . Highly recommend this place!!

Not worthy at all to stand in line. The cakes are regular and have an ordinary taste. There are many more delicious cakes available in different places. Even the tree latches do not have the same taste.

Very nice shop packed full of items usually only found in the UK. Great selection of snacks, condiments, canned and jarred goods, teas and tea infusers. There is a refrigerated section of cheeses and pastries. The frozen section has an amazing selection, including Shepherd's pie, Steak & Kidney pie, bangers, puddings, and pastries. The employees are very friendly and eager to answer questions and make suggestions. The prices have increased a bit, but it is still a great shop. This trip we got a Matthew Walker Christmas pudding and a jar of Gale's Lemon Curd. Both were very good.

Every single aspect of our Tea was exceptional. The food and tea were both delicious. SO many courses, arrive hungry. They are small bites but that is deceiving. We ate every single thing and were positively stuffed! The service was wonderful, the waitress was very knowledgeable and answered all our food/tea/culture questions! The shop inside is a ton of fun. We purchased more tea, some brittish snacks and candies too! They have hand pies inside. We will be sure to purchase those the next time we're in town.

Been going to shop for years in recent months the chocolate has been bought from other places other than UK hence not tasting the same it’s expensive so you would expect to get what you paid for instead you can expect a label that’s not in English or from NZ or Australia and the taste way below what you know and love from the UK ! Don’t bother order on line from a real British shop ! Hugely disappointing !!!!

High tea at Shakespeare is one of my favorite things to do in San Diego. The teas and treats are yummy and presentation is always adorable. The ladies who go dress to impress and they do some really fun theme teas as well. I went to a Harry Potter themed tea in October and the decorations were amazing!

I wanted to try traditional afternoon tea and was not disappointed. Luckily for me, I manage to get a reservation on last minute. They offered almost sixty varieties of tea. Food was excellent and service was too. Only drawback will be too much caffeine as you enjoy the tea.

Perfect cozy afternoon tea. It was all lovely! I used to go to tea when visiting family in Canada. Most of the tea places I have been to in the US are kitschy, But this one was nice and didn't feel hokey. Lots of tea choices. The food has options for vegetarians and vegans, so that was appreciated by my friend who prefers vegetarian meals.

Wonderful high tea, themed with Winnie the Pooh. Every item was thought through carefully to incorporate the theme. They look great in the pictures but even better when you taste them! It seems that they will be having a Harry Potter theme also coming up!!!

We took my daughter to the AubreyRose Tea Room last weekend. She had always wanted to go to "fancy English tea" and the entire experience was amazing. There was potato leek soup, a variety of savory and sweet small bites, and unlimited tea pots. They even have fancy hats you can wear. Everyone was very nice and not snooty at all. We will definitely be back.

ArbouryRose is a really cool spot if you’re into a classic tea experience. The place has an old-school, vintage vibe with fancy china and a cozy setup that makes it feel pretty unique. Good finger sandwiches, tasty scones, and some nice pastries to go along with a big selection of teas. It’s a nice place to relax, especially if you’re looking for something different from the usual coffee shop or bar scene. Definitely worth checking out if you’re into tea or just want a laid-back spot to hang out.

This place exceeded my expectations. The atmosphere, decorations, dishes were beautiful. The tea was some of the best tea I have ever tasted. Aubrey Rose and Peaches and Cream were to die for. The tower of goodies were all delicious as well. The service was 10/10!! It was worth the price. Thank you for an amazing experience I will be back :)

A sweetly decorated tea room on the main drag in la mesa. Went for a friend's birthday. Many delicious flavors of tea served in beautiful tea cups and tea pots. The savory's and pastries were delightful and beautifully displayed. The staff was helpful and kind. We quite enjoyed ourselves.

Small location, very proper on high tea. Street parking with meters or a free municipal parking lot at 3rd off lemon ave. Different tea flavors, sandwiches, light fate, savory and sweet 😋 snacks. Soup was cream of broccoli, very tasty.

It’s so difficult to describe how amazing this experience was. The food and desserts were so delicious. Please give the eggplant and red pepper soup a try, you won’t regret it. The tea selection was so good that I bought some to take home. I recommend Strawberry Fields and Paris, they’re definitely a must try. The tea room also has hats prepared for you to try on to enhance your experience. Overall, I can’t wait to come back again. This would be a really great gift to someone who enjoys drinking tea and feeling like a princess/queen.

I've been wanting to try Aubrey Rose for a while because I'd always walk by it. I've never been to a tea room before. I think it's really cute for sure. They have a large tea selection and you get 2 pots of tea at a time. I like the chilled melon "soup" which was like sorbet or something like that. I also enjoyed the savory part of the tower. The cucumber sandwiches and the cheesy toast were great. The sweets though didn't really do it for me and maybe I just don't like that type of sweet. I tend to think scones are dry but they do come with lemon curd and cream. Anyway, maybe tea isn't really my thing or just a once in a while thing but I still enjoyed the experience. The service was very attentive. Parking is pretty easy if you park in the large lot a street over.

A couple UK friends I met on Twitter started teaching me the ways of tea and told me when I came to England they would treat me to their ways....... little did I know we have a little piece of England in San Diego (Ramona technically). Royally a fantastic place with delicious treats. The tea is fantastic, the cake is fantastic, the jelly they use is delicious, the scones unbelievable, the tea is amazing....Everything I have tried from there is truly unbelievable! They do have typhoo tea (sorry for spelling) which is a UK tea which is one of my favorites. Not sure if they have Yorkshire Gold, which is my my alltime fav English Black tea, but you will still enjoy this place even if they don't. A sweet, special little place that knows what they are doing. Highly recommend having the cream tea. Sooooooooooo good.

Home away from home. I've been craving real sausage rolls for ages, The London bakery saviouries are the best. Today I had a chicken pie and a Scone. Both were absolutely delicious. Highly recommended.

Cute bakery with yummy pastries! Don't forget to check out the cinnamon rolls...ah-maise-ng!

These amazing bakers put a gluten/dairy free chocolate cake together that was delicious! My niece was able to enjoy birthday cake for the first time in years. And everyone else loved it too! I couldn't be more grateful.

My husband and I came on a Sunday afternoon and shared a pot of tea. I had a German chocolate cupcake and my husband had a carmel pecan cinnamon roll. The service was accurate and speedy. The atmosphere was quiet and pleasant. We will be back!

Everything there is amazing!!! It's really quaint, and one of my favorite places to sit and chat with friends- really refreshing change from Starbucks. I've never had anything I didn't like, but their carrot cake is extra AMAZING!!!!!

I got the lemon cream puff, my husband got the chocolate peanut butter cake and my daughter the carmel pecan rolls and we all loved our desserts. The staff is really friendly too.