8 Best Places For Afternoon Tea In San Diego

What better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than indulging in afternoon tea?

The British phenomenon has made its way to the shores of San Diego and is gaining popularity at a rapid pace. From sumptuous tea houses to high-end hotels, every establishment seems to have jumped at the opportunity to offer an afternoon tea activity.

This article will fill you in on the best afternoon tea in San Diego. Remember to hold up your pinky finger when taking a sip.

Best Tea Rooms In Central San Diego

The Westgate Hotel

Address: 1055 2nd Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 238-1818
Website

Situated in San Diego’s historic downtown district is the lavish Westgate Hotel. It offers an unbeatable afternoon tea for all, infused with grandeur and prestige.

Held in the hotel’s stunning grand lobby and boasting elegant French designs and interiors, it’s an afternoon tea you don’t want to miss. Participants will receive tea sandwiches made by an experienced team of chefs, as well as pastries, French macarons, cakes, and wide selection of teas.

The Westgate Hotel’s afternoon tea is held Thursday to Sunday, from 1 – 3:30 pm. The price for each adult is $52, children $30, and infants under the age of 1 can attend free of charge.

Coral Tree Tea House

Address: 2490 Heritage Park Row, San Diego, CA 92110
Phone: (619) 291-5464
Website

Grab your girls and hit the Coral Tree Tea House out in Heritage County Park for a day out like no other. Step inside a vintage Victorian home for traditional British-style afternoon tea service. Service includes warm, fresh baked scones, sweet desserts, sandwiches, Devonshire-style cream or lemon curds, and flavorful English breakfast tea.

There are a few packages for guests to choose from. The Princess & Prince Tea children’s menu is $23, the standard afternoon tea package is $40, and Queen’s High Tea package is $50.

Gluten-free options are available for anyone who requires it. Just be aware there’s an extra charge and you must notify the company at least 48 hours before.

We recommend getting dressed up as is customary for the occasion. 

Shakespeare’s Corner Shoppe & Afternoon Tea

Address: 3719 India St, San Diego, CA 92103
Phone: (619) 683-2748
Website

Owned and operated by a British family, Shakespeare’s Afternoon Tea represents what a tea experience should be. Hosted in a British tearoom with a spacious patio, they provide tasty bites from their onsite English bakery. You’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to the heart of Kensington during your visit.

The menu changes at Shakespeare’s Afternoon Tea each month, but in general, you’ll receive a soup of the day, a couple savories for the second course, and finish up with sweets for dessert, like scones with cream lemon curds.

The venue only accommodates 15, making it quite small compared to others on this list. The price per person is $42.95 for two hours, and it’s recommended you book in advance, seats fill fast. Those who can’t snag a spot, order some loose tea takeaway for your own picnic or event.

Best High Tea In San Diego North County

Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Address: 5300 Grand Del Mar Ct, San Diego, CA 92130
Phone: (858) 314-2000
Website

The exquisite Fairmont Grand Del Mar is another outstanding afternoon tea experience.

Every Saturday and Sunday, Fairmont Grand Del Mar transforms its lobby lounge into a luxurious afternoon tea setting. Sample some of the most delicious cuppas from Darjeeling to chamomile, and feast on appetizing bites while enjoying incredible views of the nearby coastal canyon, English style!

Everyone’s favorite part of Fairmont Grand Del Mar’s afternoon tea session is the tea sommelier. If you have any questions about the tea you’re consuming or need advice regarding what to choose, they’ll be happy to help you out.

The cost per person is $25 for a standard afternoon tea package. For those interested in the Mother’s Day option, the cost is $50. The special is well worth the splash, enjoy countless finger sandwiches and pastries to thank your mother for all she has done for you.

You’re sure to love this spot for afternoon tea in San Diego, especially if celebrating a special occasion.

The Grand Tea Room

Address: 145 W Grand Ave, Escondido, CA 92025
Phone: (760) 233-9500
Website

The Grand Tea Room is situated in the charming city of Escondido. It’s not as busy as other options on this list but equally pleasant and extremely cozy. The establishment promises a splendid afternoon with classic high teas, savory dishes from an a la carte menu, and cheeky petite desserts.

Here you’re truly spoiled for choice with five afternoon tea packages available. The prices range between $16.95 for the Cream Tea Session and $40 for the Grand Tea Package. All bookings last two hours. If you’d like to pop in for a cup without a package deal, you can do so upon available seating.

Don’t forget to pay a visit to the onsite gift shop before leaving. They sell a range of tea-themed gifts like tea cup sets, pots, strainers, books, and a selection of teas you can purchase in bulk. These include green teas, black teas, white teas, oolong teas, rooibos, and herbal teas.

Marlene’s Tea Cakes

Address: 14677 Via Bettona, San Diego, CA 92127
Phone: (858) 756-4320
Website

Your table awaits at Marlene’s Tea Cakes in Via Bettona. Whether you wish to organize a table for two or large group event, your party will be well-looked after here. Relish an unmatched day out, sipping cups of tea and munching on cakes while the staff cares for your table. 

This afternoon tea session follows British traditions but also adapts the laid-back San Diego lifestyle. Prepare for five mouthwatering courses. There will be a soup of the day, an overflowing plate of tea sandwiches and savories, a side of fruit to refresh, and, to finish, some delectable desserts.

The tea menu is comprised of a diverse selection of teas. These include flavored blacks, light greens, plus fruit and herbal blends. 

Marlene’s Tea Cakes afternoon tea package will set you back $57.22 for adults and $48.32 for children. Vegetarian options are available, but unfortunately, there is no vegan menu at this time.

When planning a visit to Marlene’s Tea Cakes you must book beforehand, there is no availability for walk-ins.

Best Afternoon Tea In San Diego East County

The Aubrey Rose Tea Rooms

Address: 8362 La Mesa Boulevard, La Mesa, CA 91942
Phone: (619) 461-4832
Website

Book one of San Diego’s finest tea rooms at the Aubrey Rose Tea Rooms in downtown La Mesa, wedged between shops selling antiques and corner stores. Open since 2003, Aubrey Rose offers a delightful setting for a celebration, whether bachelorette parties or baby showers.

The standard afternoon tea course at Aubrey Rose Tea Rooms includes a seasonal soup course alongside scrumptious savories and a three-tiered tea tray with finger sandwiches. This is in addition to your standard seasonal fruits, dessert scones, petite treats, and sweets.

For an adult, the cost is $35.95, and children, $31.95. All bookings include unlimited premium loose leaf tea for the duration of your seating. 

If you’d like to make your tea session a boozy one, glasses of house Champagne, mimosas, or sparkling ciders can be purchased for an added fee. Alternatively, bring along your own bottle, you’ll simply be charged a corkage fee.

Julian Tea & Cottage Arts

Address: 2124 3rd St, Julian, CA 92036
Phone: (760) 765-0832
Website

Last but not least, we have the lovely Julian Tea & Cottage Arts. It’s located in the historic gold mining town of Julian, around 1 hour and 20 minutes from San Diego city center, but well worth the trip. The teahouse is placed in an old western-styled home built in 1898. The charming home is tucked deep in the mountains, surrounded by lush green pine and oak forests, which adds to its appeal.

Julian Tea & Cottage Arts offers the largest number of options on this list of best afternoon tea in San Diego, with seven packages available.

Options range from the economical Cookies & Tea Combination to Cottage Classic. The later of which is a delicious four-course lunch containing a hot cup of soup, mini cheese scones, finger sandwiches, scones with lemon curds, whipped cream, jam, cookies, and tea. Additionally, visitors can purchase various accompaniments, like bottomless hot tea or a cup of hot chocolate.

The onsite gift store is an excellent place to get your hands on some goodies to commemorate your visit. It’s fully stocked with various teas, tea-related books, English bone china and ceramic, cast iron, porcelain, stainless and glass teapots. Upstairs from the gift store, there’s also a massive retail space selling numerous products, such as kitchen linens, table tops, and aprons.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of the best tea houses and rooms in San Diego. Afternoon tea can be an expensive outing, especially if you have a big group, but if you keep an eye on the prices, you might get your hands on some affordable deals.

Last Updated on June 27, 2023 by Maria Haase

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