Pinkies up, San Diego. We love a good cup of tea, which got us thinking about cute places across our city where you can enjoy afternoon tea — complete with tiered trays of treats and a soothing ambiance.
So, get cozy — we’re about to spill the tea.
The Britannia Tearooms, 2323 Midway Dr.
Selina Stockley — who’s been running Shakepeare’s Corner Shoppe & Afternoon Tea on India Street for 20 years — opened this Victorian-themed tearoom in the Midway District near Liberty Station in late July 2023, moving her full tea service to this location. She walked us through the new space which features themed areas like the “Sherlock Holmes” sitting room and “Mary Poppins” gift shop. Britannia Tearooms offers traditional afternoon tea service and themed tea events.
The AubreyRose Tea Room, 8362 La Mesa Blvd.
This sweet little spot in downtown La Mesa has been pouring afternoon tea since 2003. Loose leaf varieties reign here, and three-tiered trays boast finger sandwiches, fruit + petite sweets. This location is open Friday-Sunday, with specific tea times and reservations required.
Tea in a Victorian house is on a whole new level. | Photo via @jennaasdel
Coral Tree Tea House | 2490 Heritage Park Row
We’re talking tea in a truly historic setting — inside the 1887 McConaughy House at Heritage Park near Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Relax in one of the dining rooms of the Victorian home while sipping freshly steeped tea and enjoying tea sandwiches, scones, desserts + apple waldorf salad. This spot is open Friday-Sunday; reservations required.
Tea just hits the spot. | Photo via @savvysweets
The Grand Tea Room | 145 W. Grand Ave.
This family-run, full service tea room and gift shop is located in the historical downtown district of Escondido in San Diego’s North County. The menu features 40+ loose leaf teas and several treat tray options — with traditional afternoon tea service served over the course of a 2-hour sitting. The Grand is open Tuesday-Saturday; reservations recommended.
In the afternoons, we drink tea. | Photo via @westgatehotel
Afternoon Tea at The Westgate Hotel | 1055 2nd Ave.
The downtown San Diego hotel hosts tea time in its elegant Grand Lobby, offering a range of black, green, white + herbal teas. This is accompanied by a three-course spread of savory items, scones and French pastries like macarons. Afternoon tea service is available Thursday-Sunday; reservations required.
California English | 9276 Scranton Rd.
Local celebrity Chef Richard Blais’ charming Sorrento Mesa restaurant offers afternoon Tea Time daily, 3-5 p.m. The special menu boasts tiered towers built for two, plus a selection of a la carte items like Uncrus-TEA-ble Sandwiches, scones, and other sweet treats. Reserve your tea time table by calling (858) 201-3461.
Pssst: This is a sample of adorable tea rooms in our city. If we missed your favorite spot, please share the tea and send us an email: hello@thesdtoday.com
