Top 5 Places for Afternoon Tea in Los Angeles
Afternoon tea has always held a special place in my heart. Growing up, my great-grandma would organize family tea parties, where we would dress up and sip tea. Later, my grandma and I had after-school dates where we’d go to afternoon tea and explore antique shops together. Those experiences made tea time more than just a meal—it became a cherished tradition.
To this day, I seek out the best spots for afternoon tea, and Los Angeles offers some truly exceptional options. Here are my top five picks for the best afternoon tea experiences in LA that you absolutely need to try.
1. The Peninsula Beverly Hills
Location: Beverly Hills
Few places embody elegance quite like The Peninsula Beverly Hills. Their traditional afternoon tea is served in the sunlit Living Room, complete with live harp music. The menu includes a classic selection of scones, finger sandwiches, and decadent pastries, all paired with an extensive tea menu. I always order the “Royal Tea,” which includes a glass of Champagne.
What to try: Their buttery scones with cream and house-made preserves.
2. Hotel Bel-Air
Location: Bel-Air
The Hotel Bel-Air offers a luxurious afternoon tea experience in its iconic garden setting. Surrounded by lush greenery, you can enjoy a refined selection of teas accompanied by delicate sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Their seasonal menus often highlight locally sourced ingredients and flavors, making it a unique and memorable experience.
What to try: The mini potato with caviar!
3. Chado Tea Room
Location: Hollywood and Downtown LA
Chado Tea Room is a haven for tea enthusiasts, offering over 300 varieties of tea from around the world. Their afternoon tea service is a balance of tradition and accessibility, featuring a pot of your choice of tea, scones, finger sandwiches, and petite desserts. It’s perfect for both seasoned tea lovers and curious newcomers.
What to try: Their Darjeeling tea and the cucumber sandwiches.
4. The London West Hollywood
Location: West Hollywood
Afternoon tea at The London West Hollywood is a luxurious experience with a touch of British flair. Served in the hotel’s gorgeous rooftop setting, the tea service includes artfully crafted pastries, savory bites, and a selection of premium teas. The stunning views of LA make this a perfect spot for a special occasion.
What to try: Their Earl Grey-infused macarons and the smoked salmon on brioche with whipped avocado
5. Huntington Rose Garden Tea Room
Location: Pasadena
The Huntington Rose Garden Tea Room has been on my bucket list for ages, and for good reason—it’s a challenge to get a reservation! Set within the enchanting Huntington Library and Gardens, this tea room offers a menu with an elegant spread of savory bites, desserts, and classic scones served with Devonshire cream. Afterward, a stroll through the gardens completes the experience, making it a dreamy day out.
What to try: Their seasonal fruit tarts and signature teas.
Conclusion
For me, afternoon tea is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition full of love, memories, and connection. These five spots in Los Angeles are perfect for creating new memories or simply indulging in the art of tea time.
Have you visited any of these? Or do you have a favorite spot I should try? Let me know!
