Patch Blog: Tea Time!

Even though temperatures continue to soar and it might not feel like Fall, students everywhere have already headed back to school. With Autumn time fast approaching, it seemed like an appropriate time to talk about one of my favorite cooler weather activities - Afternoon Tea. 

Not only do our stomachs begin to grumble around 4pm everyday, but there is something nice about taking time to share a small bite, before dinner, with loved ones. Most Angelino's don't have time for tea every day, but once a month on a weekend can be a really special experience for girlfriends or moms and daughters. 

When it comes to tea time in the Pasadena area, there are three very clear choices that do not disappoint. 

For an elegant tea that allows for a lot of choices, The Scarlet Tea Room (18 W. Green Street) is a fantastic place to enjoy a great pot of tea and a few delicate treats with friends. Scarlet's three course afternoon tea is a perfect option with your choice of a small pot of tea, homemade scone with Scarlet Cream, lemon curd and preserves and four tea sandwiches. Sandwiches such as Fig and Goat Cheese Spread, Roast Beef with Aged White Cheddar and Pastrami on Rye make for unique options alongside standard Egg Salad or Cucumber and Watercress sandwiches. Call (626) 577-0051 to make a reservation. 

For a traditional English tea, visit Rose Tree Cottage (801 S. Pasadena Ave). With a carefully selected set menu of  British tea fare, as well as authentic clotted cream from Devon, guests will enjoy afternoon tea as it was originally intended by the British. Reservations are required and do alert the staff if guests have any food preferences such as a vegetarian option. After tea, be sure to stop into their English Village Shop for a souvenir. Call (626) 793-3337 for reservations and information. 

If strolling amongst gardens beforehand is more your cup of tea, don't miss the Rose Garden Tea Room at the Huntington Library (1151 Oxford Rd. - San Marino). Tea and sandwiches are served buffet style so guests get first pick of fresh scones, tea sandwiches, cakes and other nibbles. For an Asian twist of afternoon tea, the newly opened Chinese Garden Tea House serves hot green tea and traditional Chinese entrees. Open 11-4pm on weekends. Make your reservation online. 

Even if you can't make it out for one of these amazing afternoon teas, don't shy away from having a little tea party yourself. Here is a recipe for my favorite scone from my favorite tea house and patisserie in New York City: Alice's Tea Cup's Pumpkin Scones. 

Erin Shaw is a native of South Pasadena, CA and a freelance food and travel writer. You can read more of her restaurant reviews, recipes and traveling food finds on The Happy Mouth.