My husband and I have been wanting to find a local place for afternoon tea. We both loved our high tea experience when we were in South Africa. So, today along with my mother we went Sotherton Tea Room for their Queen's Tea Experience. When we arrived a little after 4pm, there was a mix up with the Open Table reservation. Our reservation was for 4:15pm. However, the owner stated they don't take reservations that late, and have had issues with Open Table. Thankfully, they were able to accommodate us, and we were able to have the Queen's Tea Experience. As for the tea we tried the Obstinate Headstrong Girl and Triumph of a Lucky Guess. Both smelled and tasted very good! We each enjoyed savory sandwiches, quiche, cranberry scone, and dessert. All of the food was absolutely delightful! The menu changes monthly so it gives an excuse to come back for sure! The tea room itself is beautifully decorated and cozy. If you are a Jane Austen fan, this place is for you. Staff are all very kind, and we had a wonderful time. read more

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My partner and I have been talking about doing our first high tea experience for the longest time, but couldn't find anywhere local. Then on Valentine's Day, he surprised me and said he found this place. Initially it was fully booked and our reservation was for outside on a cold afternoon, but we showed up early and the staff was super cool and had a seat for us inside. I'm so glad we got to sit inside because I was admiring the lovely interior. They had fun couches, lovely chandeliers, and various flower arrangements. The day we went, it was fully booked, and we sort of got lost in the mix initially when the staff was explaining things, but once they figured out it was our first time the staff was super eager to explain things to us. We tried a couple different teas, enjoyed all the different sandwiches and deserts. Normally I only drink iced teas, and so they were super cool to provide me with a glass of ice so I could enjoy my teas. My favorite one was the first one they poured, which is the Obstinate Headstrong Girl. Overall we had enough time to only taste two teas, so we will for sure have to come back to try the rest. The owner was super friendly, I explained to her that normally I don't like scones but their scones were tasty and different. She explained a little about her technique, experiences in Europe and what separates theirs from all the rest I've tried. It was a fun experience, made for a very memorable Valentine's Day, and will for sure be back in the future to try more teas! read more

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We came to Sotherton Tea Room for a post-Christmas high tea with my mom and grandma. Overall, it was a nice family experience, but there were definitely some tea room growing pains. We arrived about 30 minutes early and were told to wait since we were early and it was freezing outside. As it got closer to opening, people began lining up, and once the doors opened it was pretty much a free-for-all. At that point the server became instantly busy, which is understandable. They did appear to be running behind, as we were seated about 10 minutes after our reservation time. The space itself is very tight, you're practically seat-to-seat with other guests so be ready to suck in and say excuse me! The decor is cute and clearly trying to create a high-tea vibe, but it's still in a strip mall, which feels a bit odd for a tea room, again they did their best. We were seated on green velvet couches (very pretty), but the table sat below knee level when seated. A taller table would make a big difference so you're not constantly reaching down for your tea and bites. There were about five tea options listed, but the tea was selected for us. It was good, fruity and fragrant, but I'm more accustomed to tea service where each guest gets to choose their own blend. Also worth noting: my teacup and my mom's both had lipstick on them (queue- "eeyuckk!"), so we asked for replacements. Our waitress was very sweet and talkative, but she was also the only server for our half of the room, which definitely showed. I let them know I don't eat meat and asked about vegetarian sandwich options--unfortunately everything was already plated. That one's on me for not asking ahead of time, but it's something to keep in mind. Upon sitting, we were offered champagne or sparkling juice, we obviously chose champagne, duh! The first bite served was a homemade vegetable quiche, small but good. Next came the tiered stand of tea sandwiches and desserts. Maybe I'm spoiled by high tea places like the Rotunda at Neiman Marcus or at The Palace Hotel, but the variety and quality here were just... okay. The sandwiches included coronation chicken (which I didn't eat), a brie (couldn't really taste it) and fig that honestly tasted like a PB&J on slightly stale wheat bread, and a cucumber sandwich that was good but tiny, half-dollar sized. I ordered another one since it was the only sandwich I really enjoyed. Not sure if we were charged for it, but I assume so. Each of us received a raisin scone, which was more like a biscuit with raisins in it, but decent. We had to request lemon curd and Devonshire cream which is typically the provided at tea. The dessert tier included red velvet cake, a peppermint cream puff, and an apple pie bite. I didn't try them as they didn't really appeal to me and felt "frozen". I did notice in another review that someone mentioned the same thing and the owner responded that desserts are made in-house. That could be the case, but based on my catering background and the server saying they order elsewhere, I personally didn't get that impression. That said, my mom and grandma did enjoy the red velvet cake and cream puff. We ended up inviting our server to sit and chat with us, and she was genuinely lovely. We also acknowledged how busy she was, because... wow. Bottom line: kind service, very tight seating, and a pleasant overall experience, but if you're used to a more elevated high tea with better quality, customization, and variety, this may fall a little flat. $225 for three guests. Would I come back? Maybe, maybe not. But we still had a good time together as a family, and that counts for something. read more

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If you love to experience tea service then you MUST race out to Lincoln to Sotherton Tea Room! Call ahead like the hubster did to make a reservation and then enjoy your experience inside or on their patio. Their staff is knowledgeable and beyond friendly. Inside is decorated with English flair and has a nod to all things Jane Austen, which made this Anglophile girl's heart overjoyed! Their pre-selected menu of sandwiches, scones, and deserts are portioned and flavored perfectly. We were able to meet and chat with the owner, Elaine, and she was delightful. We loved hearing about her stories going to England as a child and how her mother came to America. I also was able to purchase a beautiful tea towel and afternoon tea cookbook. I am looking forward to using both soon! If you love a terrific afternoon tea, are looking for a lovely change of pace, are wanting to impress your mom or have a fun girls' day...look no further. Keep calm and tea on at Sotherton Tea Room! read more

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I thought that I posted this a long time ago. I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!! It's absolutely charming. I waited patiently for Mr. Darce to arrive. I've enjoyed the complete afternoon tea here three times. I love watching a movie, having delicious tea sandwiches in good company, in an adorable location. Love that airline family connection. Looking forward to returning with friends for tea and a movie. read more

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It was okay tbh. The tea sandwiches lacked flavor and don't taste like anything but bread and something else. The cakes were meh. The mango mousse was artificial mango and I couldn't finish it. Maybe I'm spoiled from great service in San Francisco but this was quite disappointing. My sister was confused picking options and even called but they still didn't put it in the notes that she wanted the nicest one. I ended up paying $74 an I felt scammed with receiving a cold quiche because they didn't communicate within themselves that she wanted the highest option. It was not that nice but the staff were very helpful. Overall I wouldn't go here again, it's shame. I thought they had a lot of potential but just opening your tea shop and using sheet cakes make me go yep sounds about right, for a place in Lincoln. I wish they would've put more effort in the desserts. It would've really changed the experience. Although I don't like the food or whatever, the interior design was very beautiful. They had princess packs for children. Overall I wouldn't go here as a group but two three people I think would be okay. One thing to mention was they let us go beyond their closing time. They only open from 12-4 though. Thank you for having us even if it wasn't want I expected personally. read more

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Checks all the boxes! Had a fancy time at Sotherton Tea Room. We visited on a Thursday and dined and enjoyed our tea experience along with apparent return patrons which is always a good sign. Ms. Jan, our host and chef was absolutely delightful. She set expectations, explained what the experience would be like, and we waited like two little girls on Christmas morning! The scone, the quiche, the curry chicken salad? Out of this world! My number one favorite tea was Headstrong Girl followed by Pierce My Soul then Polite Affections. I told my besties I want tea for my birthday! Cannot wait to return. Ladies thank me now, call and make your reservation! read more

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Our server Megan was outstanding!!! Friendly, quick, anticipated our needs and we can't wait to go back!!! Great high tea experience and so happy with the mood overall. Plus it gives me a reason to wear fancy dresses in a world where people think sports bras and yoga shorts are acceptable to wear to eat. read more

Sotherton is unlike other tea rooms in that their menu changes monthly. For those of us who are a bit more particular about the types of sandwiches we like, that means checking the menu monthly (which takes about a week to update on the website). Reservations are a must, as while it is one of the larger tea rooms, it is still pretty small considering they only have two seating times, so waiting for the menu and then quickly making reservations is a challenge. However, this month's menu looked great for what we enjoy, and it was worth the time it took to wait for a menu we liked and scramble to make the reservation. The staff was very responsive when I asked about some specifics on the menu and accommodating a request to remove the cracked pepper from the cucumber sandwich. It is not in a busy parking lot, so it was easy to find and get a parking spot. They also have some outdoor seating, which would be nice for spring and fall. The inside is beautiful, and they had the 2005 Pride and Prejudice soundtrack playing. I highly recommend spending the extra on the Queen's Tea, which gives you premium desserts, a glass of sparkling wine, and a slice of quiche (which was one of the best slices of quiche I have ever had). It isn't much more, but you get a lot for it. The only downside to the food is, like some of the other places I have reviewed in the area, they only serve one scone per person, and the scones are too good to only give one per person (especially since in England everyone gets two scones). These just looked beautiful and crisp, plus they were freshly made (as was the quiche). Overall the flavors of the sandwiches and desserts were very tasty. As for the tea itself, it was very different than any other afternoon tea I have been to. There is only one pot of tea for the table; however, you can try as many teas as you desire from their menu (which is limited but still more than enough). They start everyone off with Obstinate, Headstrong Girl (whose name I love, but I did not think I would like based on the flavor profile), and it was delicious. We also tried Pierce My Soul, which was also very good. They sell cocktails as well that look good, and according to the website they are working on selling more traditional English foods, which would be really cool. It looks like they also do special events throughout the week, so if you are local, I am sure that would be fun. Overall, it was a lovely experience and I look forward to returning. read more

Sotherton Tea Room - Cocktail menu with tributes to Jane Austen - Tea Rooms Near Me - Lincoln, California

Sotherton Tea Room is a wonderful local business. We had the pleasure of talking with the owner and learned a bit about her reasons as to opening up this place and her plans to expand! We had the Queen's feast and everything was amazing. From the champagne to the serving tower full of delicate sandwiches and pastries, everything was delicious for my friends and I. I am so happy that they included a gluten free option for one of my friends, it allowed her to fully enjoy the experience and we all couldn't have been happier. My friends and I cannot wait to be back! Definitely a place you must stop by for a wonderful high tea experience. read more

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Nice ambience, cozy place. The server lady was nice. Cute tea sets around on displays. Rustic tea pots. Very pricy considering the service they provide. Sandwiches and deserts were just ok. Nothing special. Egg salad, quinoa salad, chicken salad in sandwich form: small 2 strips of bread with crust removed with those salads in between. Bread not grilled or anything. The quiche they brought me was cold inside. Reheated from the freezer. Biscuits not warmed up. I addition to that I got double chipped plate and server asked to keep used fork after eating quiche before bringing deserts so we can reuse it. Honestly the service surprised us very much considering the price 62$ per person. Not my favorite. Would not go there again read more

Sotherton Tea Room - Tea party assortment per person - Tea Rooms Near Me - Lincoln, California

What ashame what ashame Service is horrible had to continue to ask for different teas and butter for scones. Fully packed and not enough workers. Had to pour my own teas and had to ask what desserts and sandwiches are what. I would not recommend this place to anyone. Went to restroom dirty garbage flowing over to floor and worker exit restroom as I was going in and didn't wash hands or clean bathroom or add paper towels. Had to come out of restroom with wet hands and use my napkin. read more

My mom, sister, and daughter and I went to tea to celebrate Mother's Day last Saturday and we were very disappointed - especially since we had driven more than one hour. The room looks out on a parking lot and is very crowded. Where I was seated I looked down the hallway to bathrooms. My plate had remnants of food and my teacup had lipstick stains and both had to be replaced. Two napkins were missing at our table. The tea pots, sugar bowl and tongs were tarnished (black in some places). The teacups may not actually be tea cups but rather ordinary grey patterned cups and plates. Although the scones and chocolate mousse were delicious, the sandwiches barely had any filling so very little taste; one was maybe just cream cheese and jam. The main raspberry dessert was a bit odd - lots of creamy filling without any taste to the raspberry topping. The staff was pleasant enough but when we were seated we weren't told there was already tea in the pot or what kind it was. Additionally, we were told we could have different types of tea but we had to ask, it was not offered. There is an $8 discount if paying with cash. I have been to dozens of teas domestically and internationally, this one was a great disappointment. read more

This is the best high tea experience I've had in quite some time. The attention to details was phenomenal. The food was fresh and delicious. The service was impeccable. We had the best time and will definitely go again. read more

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I was very disappointed on Mother's Day when we arrived and the table we reserved to accommodate my granddaughter's log wheelchair and shaded was occupied by another family. My daughter had made the reservation 3 weeks in advance and was advised that there were no available tables inside to accommodate a wheelchair; however, they hsd a table outside that could accommodate the wheelchair and would be fully shaded. Unfortunately, the owner shared that the table we reserved was not available (she said the people must have changed tables). This was highly unlikely since the seating for the entire restaurant was at 1:30 and we all walked in at the same time. The reserved table was set fir 4, not the 3 in our party. The owner attempted to convince us that the table she had for us would work fine...the table was not shaded for all of us. The owner acknowledged that the table that was occupied was in fact the table that we reserved. She shared with us that she was doing her best; she wanted to know what could she do? We replied that she could give us the table we reserved...she refused because she didn't want to disrupt the seated family. I believe that this incident was the result of the owner changing the reservation so she could accommodate an additional patron. There was a table for 5 that was vacant indoors; when my daughter asked if we could dit there, she said that was a table for 5, and n we couldn't have that table. When we pulled away from this establishment at 1:55, the table for 5 remained vacant. we were very much looking forward to this tea. I had been before and wanted to share the experience with my daughter and granddaughter. It is very challenging making arrangement's for ADA compliant establishments; that is why my daughter confirms and clarifies the accommodations prior to attending. my 7 year old granddaughter was disappointed that our spot was taken. She was dressed for tea and had been looking forward to this day. I don't understand business owners who are not accountable for their actions. We will not be supporting this business in the future. read more

What an Amazing Gemstone of a find! The owner/host is Elaine and her love of England and the English tea shop is a diamond for us to experience. Hey even you guys, have got to try the Obstinate Headstrong tea that rivals any coffee for boldness and taste! Her English lunch will actually transport you to Great Britain without the airfare, travel cost, or the additional accommodations. Experience Elaine's passion in providing you a true moment of England revisited to nourish your heart, soul, and culinary joy! You will feel England the moment you enter her establishment. Cheers! read more

I'll be honest the Sotherton Tea Room was kind of all over the place for me. Some really good things and then some stuff that was just kind of okay. First of all the customer service was amazing! Super friendly and explained everything that we needed to know because it is kind of confusing at first. The window shows out to a parking lot so that was not good or bad just not what I think of when I think of a tea room. The tea was so good and the food looked amazing. When you tried it though the bread was a little stale and the dessert thing that I have in the picture was frozen. This means to me that all the dessert came boxed. I do think they made the sandwiches and the scones. We may be back but will have to try some others out to compare. read more

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This is such a cute place. I brought my niece. I've brought my sister-in-law for her birthday and every time it has been a great time. They do have that number numbers of people that they can fit. The reservation. Reservations are very important. However, I'd rather like that the setting is intimate and beautiful. The servers are friendly and kind. The food was delicious and the tea was amazing. I highly recommend anybody wanting to experience a high tea. Lincoln is lucky to have you. read more

Beautiful tea room, lovely ambiance, delicious tea, yummy sandwiches. Highly recommend. read more

Sotherton Tea Room - Seating area - Tea Rooms Near Me - Lincoln, California

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I tried this place out today with six of my friends. We absolutely loved it! The decor and the ambience is beautiful. The tea was delicious. The sandwiches were good. And we all agreed that the scone was great. Our server Amanda provided excellent service. My only complaint is that I wish I could've had seconds on some of my favorites hee hee. I will definitely do this again read more

Every time I go for afternoon tea, the staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming. The tea is always amazing, and everything is beautifully presented in a lovely spread. You never have to wait long for your food or tea, which makes the experience even better. The food is consistently delicious, and the scones are one of my absolute favorites. It's also so much fun to try a bit of everything--you really get to enjoy the full afternoon tea experience. Such a great place--highly recommend! read more

Sotherton Tea Room - Afternoon Tea Food - Tea Rooms Near Me - Lincoln, California

A beautiful Tea Room that has three options: traditional afternoon tea, cream tea and mini brunch. I went to the traditional afternoon tea, which includes a complimentary cup of their most popular tea, then for our pot of tea we chose Colonel Brandon's Travels (apricot, lychee and mango flavored black tea), it was delicious. There are four tea options you can choose from and the traditional earl grey, english breakfast and Darjeeling flavors. They serve the tea in a gorgeous tea set and include sugar cubes and milk. Their food menu changes monthly, be sure to check the menu before booking. This month they had finger sandwiches: roast beef w/creamy horseradish and arugula, branston pickle with cheddar, coronation chicken and cucumber cream cheese w/dill and pepper. There were also cranberry scones w/clotted cream and jam, victoria sponge cake, mango souffle cake and an almond mousse and rose cream tart. I really don't like horseradish but I couldn't really taste in in the roast beef sandwich, which was great for me. Everything was so good and surprisingly filling. I booked online through Open Table, it was really easy. You can also call them and book over the phone. I called to ask about the different seating options, they were very nice and answered by questions. There'a a big parking lot so parking isn't an issue. It can get loud because they usually have a full house for every tea time. They have gender neutral bathrooms. They also sell the loose tea that is on the menu. I had tried to book at other tea rooms in the area and they were difficult to book or didn't serve full tea on weekends. Sotherton Tea Room lovely, from the decor to the tea and the food. Overall a great experience, I can't wait to come back. read more

Sotherton Tea Room - Tea Rooms Near Me - Lincoln, California

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I think they only take reservations and. it walk ins but it's so easy to book online. The whole tearoom although it is very small was fully booked. Everyone was seated and the tea and treats were all brought out at the same time. We were started off with their christmas specialty tea which was a chocolate peppermint tea and it my favorite! We also were served little sandwiches, a scone, and some christmasy desserts. Although it didn't seem like much food, we were so full by the end and had to take the sweets home! You can try unlimited teas during your visit and we also got some bubbly with the Christmas special. The staff is incredibly friendly and sweet. The inside was decorated for christmas and it was so beautiful with the christmas music in the background. 10/10 would 1000% book again read more

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This is a delightful tea room that understands the importance of really good tea blends. The food was outstanding -- fresh with new flavors. Everything appeared to be made in house. The scones were flavorful and not dry. The desserts were beautiful and exquisite. We had a wonderful server and the atmosphere was relaxing. Just perfect. read more

My grandmother and I came yesterday for a lovely tea party. It was so great!!! The place was beautifully decorated, immediately when you walk in the room pulls you in with it's beautiful decorations. The portions of food seem small but between the two of us, we couldn't finish it all. We both left a dessert each. The headstrong tea was my favorite. We tried one cup of a different one but really the headstrong was the best. It's about $36 a person, you NEED a reservation to visit. Definitely check it out :) read more

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A fun afternoon for something special. Celebrated a birthday. Great service with fun ambiance great food offerings.

The Ambience is elegant, bright, and luxurious. The service will work with you on your dietary needs. Just call ahead. There's a bookcase of lovely enticing books! The food is neatly and nicely prepared with lots of variety. I'd bring cash because they charge to use a card. I'd work out the tip ahead of time. If you use a card, you can tip a predetermined 18% or above or customize it. They have several flavored fruity teas as well as unflavored favorites. Ask for sugar substitute & salt up front or bring your own. Read the website thoroughly so you know what your options are. Enjoy! read more

Had a wonderful experience of high tea. The food was delish and all the teas were beautiful. Really enjoyed this experience as it was such a pleasant way to spend the afternoon and something different. read more

An absolute wonderful experience! My friend and I visited the tea room on a Sunday morning. I had called ahead and let them know that I am pregnant and would therefore not be able to have most of the teas. The owner over the phone was most accommodating and located some peppermint tea for me to drink. This was such a kind gesture! Our waiter had also been informed, and he was mindful to not fill my tea cup with any of the other caffeinated herbal teas. Not only was the location charming, the food delicious, the tea tasty, but the service was outstanding. Will definitely be coming back. read more

I absolutely loved my experience here- the food was tasty and they served enough to leave me full; their tea mixtures were creative, delightful, and bottomless; and above all, the ambiance of this place is unmatched! If you are a fan of Bridgerton/movies based off of Jane Austen books, this is the perfect place to go read more

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Charming little tea room nestled in the Lincoln Hills. It was a pleasure to try out this quant tea room on a Sunday afternoon. The sandwiches were tasty, the tea was flowing and the scones were of Irish decent as I was impressed with the quality of the food I enjoyed. I was next to a large party where the ladies and little girls were having a blast chatting and enjoying all of the nibbles. My waitress allowed me to blend some teas and my creations impressed us both. Suffice to say, I will be back with a guest to enjoy and rave about this tea room and become a "regular". I'm looking forward to my next visit and am grateful for the hospitality. read more

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Such a wonderful experience! Great food , service, and ambiance. You can see chef loves what she does. She comes and checks on you, chats about the variety of teas, sandwiches. You feel the love in room. You won't be disappointed! read more

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I had the loveliest time at Sotherton Tea Room. Me and my coworker had been planning to visit a tea room one weekend and we stumbled upon this place on Yelp. First of all, the interior was adorable. I felt like I was transported into the world of Bridgerton. The tea sets were adorable. The decor was beautiful (even the restroom was cute!). The service was great. The waitress was very attentive and came by to check on us often. The scones, pastries and finger sandwiches were all delicious. I'm not super knowledgeable about tea, but the selection of teas was great. My favorite was the Pierce my Soul flavor. It had a very nice, rich flavor and complimented the pastries well. I felt like I healed my inner child, who never had a tea party growing up. I love this place and will definitely be back. read more

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Had a great time with my family. Did a ladies tea and everyone loved it so much. We will definitely be back

Attended the Queens Tea yesterday. This is my second time. The food was very poor. My sandwiches were soggy. The quiche crust was hard as a rock. We had to ask for a knife to cut it. Almost everything was sweet. More savory items need to be added. The decor is beautiful and just hope the food could improve. read more

Sotherton Tea Room awakened my inner Child and brought back so many wonderful tea party memories with the ladies in my family. The decor is darling, the food was really fun and yummy and the Tea was delicious. My two friends and I had the best time! I have been telling everyone about this sweet little gem. Go you will not regret it. Take your mom, your sister or your besties. It truly is a fun memorable day! read more

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This isn't really my scene but I came with my fiance and ended up really enjoying myself. Tea isn't my favorite but theirs is good. The sandwiches and desserts are delicious too! read more

Server generally ignored our party of 4 unless we asked for something while she made small talk with every other table. She served us a cocktail with a gnat in it and lied to our faces saying it was residue from the brewed tea pot. Food was pretty basic although scone was fresh, tea was decent if you like fruity flavors. Will look for other spots that are more friendly to POC. read more

attened the princess and me tea on July 13th. The event was well planned and my 8 year old loved it. However, the scones were undercooked and the the quiche crust was slightly overcooked and dry. Did not enjoy the flavor at all. the sandwiches were okay. Having said that the service was excellent and staff was very attentive and polite. The only tea offered was black or green. I prefer herbal tea or decaf tea. Tried a green which was actually very good. read more

First the positives. The tearoom itself is charming. The servers were friendly and helpful. The tables were a little bit close together, but that wasn't a big deal, unless you're a bigger person. The food was subpar and very basic, especially for the high price tag. The sandwiches were ordinary, nothing special. A couple of them were flavorless and the coronation chicken tasted like it came out of a can. The pastries, although pretty, also looked like they were previously frozen, and the texture was mushy. The scones were dry and not at all moist. The jam and the clotted cream were nice. The signature tea was also good, but the way that it was served was a bit confusing. My cup was still half full and I was brought a teapot full of a different tea. Perhaps bringing me a fresh tea cup would have been better instead of having to mix the two teas together. The actual concept is quite lovely, and it would be even better if the owner actually tried to improve the quality of the food instead of taking short cuts. To the owner, you could actually charge even more money for a proper English tea if you took the time to make the food from scratch, and made it fresh every day. I would like to say that I will try again, but I don't think spending $38 a person is worth the long schlep for mediocrity. read more

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