Top 5 Places to Enjoy Tea in San Diego
Looking for the perfect spot to sip tea in San Diego? Whether you’re after a charming afternoon tea with friends, a romantic high tea date, or a relaxing solo escape, the city offers a variety of tea experiences — from quaint Victorian-style tea houses to elegant luxury hotels. Afternoon tea is catching on quickly here, and with San Diego’s sunny climate and diverse food scene, it’s the ideal place to enjoy a comforting pot of tea paired with freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches, and decadent pastries.
List of Best Places to Enjoy Tea in San Diego
Here’s our guide to the Top 5 Places to Enjoy Tea in San Diego — each offering its own blend of atmosphere, flavor, and charm.
1. Coral Tree Tea House – Classic Victorian Afternoon Tea
- Special Tea to Try: Lavender Earl Grey — a fragrant floral twist on the classic blend that pairs perfectly with their lemon curd scones
📍 Address: 2490 Heritage Park Row, San Diego, CA 92110
📞 Phone: +1 619-291-5464
🌐 Website: coraltreeteahouse.com
💲 Price Range: $$
⏰ Hours: Fri–Sun, 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Step into a restored vintage Victorian home and enjoy a traditional British-style afternoon tea. Expect warm, freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches, Devonshire-style cream, and lemon curd, all paired with rich English breakfast tea. Gluten-free options are available (with advance notice). The charming setting and peaceful garden make this a San Diego favorite for those craving a true Victorian tea experience.
2. AubreyRose Tea Room – English Elegance in La Mesa
- Special Tea to Try: Queen’s Blend — a smooth, full-bodied black tea with subtle floral notes, perfectly complementing their fresh-baked scones.
📍 Address: 8362 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942
📞 Phone: (619) 461-4832
🌐 Website: theaubreyrosetearoom.com
💲 Price Range: $$
⏰ Hours: Thu–Sun, 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Hidden in La Mesa’s Antiques district, AubreyRose Tea Room has been serving authentic afternoon tea since 2003. Their “Queen Victoria” and “Lady Anne” tea services feature a selection of sandwiches, savories, seasonal fruit, scones, and petite desserts — with endless cups of loose-leaf tea. Walk-in cream tea is also available, and you can add Champagne for a sparkling twist. Perfect for birthdays, bridal showers, or a cozy weekend indulgence.
3. Fairmont Grand Del Mar – Afternoon Tea with a Touch of Luxury
- Special Tea to Try: Jasmine Green Tea from Tea Forté — delicate, aromatic, and refreshing, ideal for a refined afternoon.
📍 Address: 5300 Grand Del Mar Ct, San Diego, CA 92130
📞 Phone: (858) 314-2000
🌐 Website: fairmont.com
💲 Price Range: $$$
⏰ Hours: Fri–Sun, 12:00 PM–4:00 PM
If you’re looking for luxury tea service in San Diego, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers an elegant three-course tea in their grand library or lobby. Enjoy freshly baked scones with jam, dainty finger sandwiches, and Tea Forté selections. Reservations require at least 24 hours’ notice. The refined atmosphere and impeccable service make this a must-visit for those seeking a high tea San Diego experience.
4. Marlene’s Tea & Cakes – British Tradition with a Local Twist
- Special Tea to Try: Vanilla Cream Black Tea — rich, smooth, and slightly sweet, it’s a crowd favorite for a cozy tea time.
📍 Address: 14677 Via Bettona, San Diego, CA 92127
📞 Phone: +1 858-756-4320
🌐 Website: marlenesteaandcakes.com
💲 Price Range: $$
⏰ Hours: Wed–Sun, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Marlene’s Tea & Cakes offers a five-course tea service that blends British tradition with a relaxed San Diego vibe. Begin with a soup, followed by tea sandwiches, seasonal fruit, and a dessert finale. Their tea menu includes flavored black teas, light green teas, herbal blends, and fruit infusions. Ideal for intimate gatherings, celebrations, or a quiet afternoon getaway.
5. Shakespeare’s Corner Shoppe – A Slice of the UK in San Diego
- Special Tea to Try: James Bond Blend — a bold, slightly smoky black tea inspired by the iconic spy, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
📍 Address: 3719 India St, San Diego, CA 92103
📞 Phone: (619) 683-2748
🌐 Website: britishshoppesandiego.com
💲 Price Range: $$
⏰ Hours: Tue– Mon, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Since 2000, Shakespeare’s Corner Shoppe has transported guests to the tea rooms of the British Isles. Their menu features traditional scones, creative pastries, and specialty blends like Earl Grey and their signature “James Bond” tea. Don’t miss their adjacent English bakery and boutique, where you can pick up imported British treats and souvenirs.
Tips for Enjoying Tea in San Diego
- Reserve in advance — many tea rooms book up quickly, especially on weekends.
- Check seasonal menus — special holiday teas often include themed pastries and décor.
- Dress comfortably but smart — some venues encourage a semi-formal tea attire.
- Ask about dietary options — gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian options are often available with notice.
FAQs
Q: Where can I find the best afternoon tea in San Diego?
A: Popular spots include Coral Tree Tea House, AubreyRose Tea Room, Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Marlene’s Tea & Cakes, and Shakespeare’s Corner Shoppe.
Q: How much does afternoon tea cost in San Diego?
A: Prices range from $25 to $75 per person, depending on location and menu.
Q: Do any tea rooms in San Diego offer vegan or gluten-free options?
A: Yes — Coral Tree Tea House and some others offer these options with advance notice.
Final Sip
Whether you’re in the mood for a luxurious high tea at a five-star hotel or a cozy afternoon with friends in a quaint tea house, San Diego’s tea scene offers something for every taste. Next time you search for the Top 5 Places to Enjoy Tea in San Diego, you’ll know exactly where to go for the perfect cup.
