My family has a lot of April birthdays so we usually try to get the ladies together to celebrate. Everyone loves tea parties! My cousin said she attended a baby shower here before and asked if we wanted to have our lunch here. I agree with some of the other reviews, that they don't answer their phone. When you leave a message, it does take a few days for a response. The message said they'll call you back within 24 hours, but note they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.My cousin left a message on Wed 3/21/18 and our reservation wasn't confirmed until that weekend. To make a reservation for parties of 5 of more, they have to charge a credit card ahead of time. They also charge 15% tip. With everything including tax and tip, it came out to $39 and some change per person for our party of 6. Reservation times were either 11:00AM or 2:30PM. We came in on Saturday at 11AM. I've been to many Tea Parties and Marlene's feels more elegant (almost hotel-like) and not as homey as others I've been to. (I've been to some that are within an actual vintage house and another where it was a converted barn). Nonetheless, it was decorated beautifully inside. The water they provided was infused with cucumber. I could definitely taste it. (so good). MENU -------------- STARTER: Carrot & Ginger Soup with Puff Twist SAVORIES: Cucumber & Herb Sandwich, Mini-Beef Wellington, Blue Cheese Mascarpone and Red Onion Confit Quiche, Chicken & Lemon-Tarragon Sandwich, Avocado Caprese Toast SCONES & FRUIT: Mixed Berry Scone, pineapple, strawberry, cantaloupe, grapes DESSERTS: Lemon Flower Tart, Tres Leches Cake Trifle, Raspberry Cheesecake White Chocolate Truffle, Chocolate Souffle Cake We tried the following teas: Mango 'n Friends, Blueberry Bang (Rooibos), Creme Au Caramel, Lady Londonderry I think our favorite was probably the Mango 'n Friends. Overall, they bring out the soup on its own to start and the rest of the menu is on the tiered display. The soup, quiche, sandwiches, and avocado toast were delicious. The scone was decent. However, what really let me down were the desserts. Not really impressed with any of them. My family still had a great time, but were in agreement that we've had better. Our server was awesome though and explained what each dish was, refilled our water, asked if we wanted more teas, and even took a couple group photos for us.

The presentation was great. That's the best I can say. From the time we sat down till we left there were problems. They knew a month prior we would have a child and a vegetarian. They asked us after the soup was served if the vegetarian ate meat and dairy. Thw dairy question I get, the meat I dont. But let's go back. They served 1 soup, 5-6 min later they served us 6 more soups. They then served a different table on the other side of the room 5 soups (it was our server) we had to ask her about our remaining 5 soups. Guessing from the time one soup was served till the last 15 min had passed. All the soup was lukewarm other than the first one, it was just cold. 20 - 30 min after the soup was removed we were served the first od our trays. Sadly though they served our tray first to another table. Walked away and then turned around grabbed the tray and brought it to our table. Out of the 5 sandwiches only 2 were set up for the vegetarian (again they knew a month prior) no extra sandwiches were made for this person. They did not make a special tray for the child either ( nor tell us when we made reservations they really don't service children ) the other 2 trays came out about 5-6 min later. The vegetarians tray was lacking several things the other trays were. Theirs had 3 types of fruit the others 5 types. Theirs 3 deserts ours 5. We made it through this only to go through hell trying to pay the bill. We were handed a sticky note with $600. + for thr bill, we split that amongst the group. When she came to collect the bill we told her what to put on each groups card. Nope, they can't do that. It took about 45 min 3 employees plus the owner telling us we are making it harder for her. That she normally charges ahead with large groups. Funny, the other 3 large groups paid the same way we did with out issues. The owner blamed us for the system not working right. It was a mess. Oh she never said sorry, just kept telling us the total she gave us was wrong. Never apologize for any issues we had, just blamed us.

This was our first Afternoon Tea. We received an invitation to Marlene's as a Christmas gift, and we weren't sure what to expect. This whole experience was great! First impression started outside with a very peaceful garden, then as we stepped inside, the music was calming. We enjoyed 3 different types of tea, and they offered more but we all liked what we had. The first course was a delicious tomato soup. Then out comes the 3 tier tray with the other courses. The savory tray had onion quiche, beef Wellington, and 3 different types of sandwiches. The scones, on the second tier were better than any scone we have ever had. And the dessert was the topper to the whole experience! There were 4 different sweet treats, and even though I'm not big on sweets, I had my full share of these delectable treats! This was our first experience, but hopefully not our last! Everything is made in house with only the best ingredients. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Tomato Soup

Our ladies group thoroughly enjoyed the tea and delicious food here on a recent Sunday morning. So many wonderful types of tea to sample, and the October menu was mouthwatering! I’m issuing the 4-star rating strictly based on that. The disappointment was in the ambiance because of a children’s birthday party. It made it very difficult to converse at our table . I would just caution anyone making a weekend reservation to be aware of a possible children’s party. It wasn’t until that party left that we realized there was nice background music playing the whole time. The owner greeted us initially at our table but that was all. We had expected there would be recommendations of tea pairings, etc. but she spent most of the time chatting with a group which might have been personal friends. We just expected that she would be more personable given the small and intimate size, seating for 24. We had to make requests of the server for water and tea refills and that’s not the level of service we expected. I would rate 3-1/2 stars for service.

We had an amazing time here celebrating. The staff is so kind and friendly, absolutely wonderful. The food....OMG...and that's not in my wheelhouse of sayings...potato leak soup was delicious. You know when you think of tea time, you think small portions, sipping tea then, okay bring on the main course. I left here, full and satisfied with lots of leftovers. We had a grand ol time. Definitely recommend, and have already recommended to a few friends and family. Trust, you will not regret it. Definitely, well worth it. You show up for your time slot, the table is set, and they serve you. Very chill, enjoy your time, and when you're done. You simply get up and leave. No check, no tip, it's all included. Perfect. Have a nice time. See you next time.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Tea Setting, High Tea Tea Sandwiches Quiche Beef Wellington, Mini Beef Wellington, Cucumber Sandwich, Table Setting

This place receives 5 stars for ambiance and food. I celebrated my daughter’s first birthday here and my guests were wowed by the decor and by the food. However, I have to agree with some of the reviews that mention poor customer service. It felt very awkward when I first came in, it seemed like the owner wasn’t expecting me despite me having had booked the event months in advance. I was greeted with confused looks. It was not welcoming, I was told by the manager that I could come in a few minutes early to set up my decor and that I could bring my own cake since they were unavailable to make me one due to being understaffed. It seems like there was miscommunication with the staff because they made a comment that I was not allowed to bring in my own cake and overall seemed confused that I was there. I’m glad that at least the host was nice, but I believe this place could improve if they provided their guests with a more welcoming experience.

Very nice experience. The food and presentation was excellent. Marlene, the owner, was very sweet and personable, unlike the owner of another popular San Diego tea room my husband and I use to frequent. This is what an afternoon tea should be like. I would definitely recommend this charming place. ****8/16/19 Update: For my original review, 9 months ago, I gave 5 stars, forgiving the hassle and inconvenience it was to make a reservation at this place. Once again, I’ve been calling, left a message, waited 24 hours for a call back as requested, called and left another message. Still nothing. I don’t know why the owner, Marlene, doesn’t use a better way of taking reservations. Is it because she’s too cheap to hire extra help or doesn’t care because she gets enough customers in anyway? There’s other tea rooms around that have a more responsible and courteous attitude towards customers.

I have been coming here for years for tea and they have never failed to impress. The food is fresh and amazing. Not sure, but it seems to be made in house. The atmosphere is beautiful from indoors to be outdoor garden area (filled with beautiful plants, birds and butterflies). The scones are my favorite. I have ordered them as a pick up order because I love them so much. The almond and fruit tea is heavenly with Paris tea following at a close second. I highly recommend Marlene’s for tea.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Wheelchair accessibility
They accommodated someone in a wheeled walker and could easily accommodate other disabilities.

Marlene's Tea and Cakes offers the absolute best English high tea dining experience. It's located in the elegant and beautiful community of Santa Luz in San Diego. Tea and delectable savories and desserts are served on the finest China by accommodating staff. The food presentation is amazing and guaranteed to please. At every tea party, my guests and I marvel at the wonderful three-tiered presentation and we become paparazzi before we partake in the delicious soup, savories, tea sandwiches, scones, fruit and desserts (all of which are homemade - except fruit). The extensive tea selection will also satisfy guests. Marlene's passion and desire to provide guests with the ultimate tea experience is evident through her attention to detail and delicious creations that are almost to extraordinary to eat!

Absolutely stunningly beautiful place with amazing service. That she options were plentiful and delicious. The food was also all delicious It just leans heavy on the sweets and not as heavy on the savory so we still felt a little hungry afterwards. It's a bit on the more expensive side of tea houses but still worth it for how nice and high-end it is. Dress fancy and go enjoy yourself!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 3
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
High Tea Tea Sandwiches Quiche Beef Wellington, Tomato Soup
Vegetarian options
You can order a vegetarian plate instead of the meat. The meat plate contained a turkey sandwich and 1 beef item. Otherwise the vegetarian stack was exactly the same

Looking for a lovely, afternoon tea with delicate pastries, scones with clotted cream and sweet treats? Marlene's is brilliant! A word of caution: you must make reservations, at minimum, a day in advance, and you will put down a deposit. You cannot walk in and expect to be served. Planning is key and definitely worth it. It was a perfect place to take my 7 year old daughter for her first, official high tea. She enjoyed and recommends the Strawberry Rose Tea, while I savored the Earl Grey Supreme Tea. Both were delightful! She also adored all the sandwiches, fresh fruit, chocolate cake, and cheesecake dipped in white chocolate. I cannot disagree. Everything was delicious!

We had the most fun at Marlene's afternoon tea! The tea was plentiful and we loved the fruit flavors. The homemade tomato soup was the best I've ever tasted; and the Beef Wellington and quiche were melt in your mouth delicious! Loved the glaze on the flavorful scones. We saved most of the desserts for our hours long drive home as we were stuffed. Alma was extremely gracious and we hope to see her on a return trip.
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
High Tea Tea Sandwiches Quiche Beef Wellington, Tomato Basil Soup
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot

Marlene’s Tea and Cakes is my favorite place to go to tea. She serves excellent food. I love the beef Wellington savories. Her scones are the best I’ve ever had. Her sweets are fantastic. I love the fresh flowers inside and out. She uses my favorite China too. Lady Carlile by Royal Albert. It’s like my last name. Lol. Seriously she cost a little more but you definitely get what you pay for. Quality.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$30–50
Recommended dishes
Scone with White Chocolate, Peppermint Trifle, Mini Beef Wellington, Cucumber Sandwich, Mousse Au Chocolat, Cream Puff, Wedding Cake, Tomato Basil Soup

We had an amazing tea at Marlene's. The food was delicious & there was a good variety of sandwiches, tarts and mini quiches on the bottom layer of the tea service. The next layer was fruit and scones with clotted cream, which were also scrumptious. The top layer was full of delicious mini desserts. The brownies, tres leches cake and eclairs were amazing. We even brought some desserts home. Overall, I'd highly recommend Marlene's for afternoon tea!!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
High Tea Tea Sandwiches Quiche Beef Wellington

Super cute environment and area. Delicious food and tea. Good service from staff. My first time to tea ever, as I was skeptical for the price and the amount of food you receive and also not a huge tea person, but I will admit it was all great! Tea’s we’re delicious and had so many different varieties. The food was delicious! I left full (not having eaten before hand) and even had to take a couple desserts home. The scones inexplicably delicious! Overall would recommend trying!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$50–100

I have been to many Afternoon Tea places including the Ritz Carlton. Marlene’s offers everything you would expect if you enjoy Traditional Tea service. The food was outstanding and so was the service. The atmosphere is very quaint and I loved all their tableware including having a warmer for your teapot which you don’t see very often. I will definitely be back.
Service
Dine in
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
High Tea Tea Sandwiches Quiche Beef Wellington

If I could give this place more than 5 stars I totally would! The atmosphere is so beautiful and lovely, and the employees accommodated our outside table request. The food was delicious (not a bite letf) and the tea was warm and flavorful! All the staff members were kind, friendly, professional, and polite. All the setup, teapots and teacups, and decorations were gorgeous to look at and I felt like I was a princess having my tea! I would love to come again and this place is perfect for all your afternoon tea dreams!

I loved this place. I’ve been there only one time with my son his wife and my grandkids. It is clean delightful and very refreshing for a nice afternoon on Mother’s Day. 2018. I was hoping it would become a new tradition for Mother’s Day. But we didn’t make it this year. If your ever in the area. Make reservations and go enjoy yourselves to this wonderful place that is a 10 on a scale 1-10. It gets a five star from me. The atmosphere was beautifully decorated and the service was excellent and the food was delicious.

Service was poor. I made a reservation for a tea party, two of our guests had an emergency and couldn't make it. I knew that no shows still had to be paid for, so I told the owner I was willing to pay for the no shows. She was very annoyed and continued to go into detail how no shows had to be paid for and what would happen to the food that was prepared. I apologized again and repeatedly said I would pay for the food. She begrudgingly agreed and served us. The tea was watered down and pastries were average.

beautiful outdoor patio that’s completely shaded and surprisingly cool despite the summer heat. love the tea pots and plateware. probably my favorite afternoon tea spot if you factor in food, service and ambience. the only downside is the tea selection is a bit limited and you have to preorder/prepay online (tax + tip included). they do allow you to switch out the tea after you finish a pot. the scones and clotted cream are worth making a trip out - takeout preorder required.

She sets a gorgeous table, so five stars for atmosphere, and the food was quite yummy, but the service was completely impersonal, at best. Also, the hostess is a stickler for timing. It is definitely a timed tea, which is not very relaxing, and if you literally go 30 seconds over the time, the hostess will actually take your food and drinks, even if unfinished, out of your hands! My friend and I didn't know whether to laugh or cry, LOL! It was quite a shocking experience!

My first “afternoon tea” experience and what a fabulous experience it was! Greeted and served by friendly and welcoming staff, and seated on beautiful garden patio. The tea we preordered was brought right out to us, each one in different lovely pot. I’m not usually a fan of tomato soup but the Tomato basil soup was amazing and the savory, sweet tiered food selection was delicious…especially the scones! I look forward to visiting again next time in the San Diego area.

We were very excited to join their Philippine tea with some Pilipino friends today. However, it was very disappointing. First thing first and most importantly, the filling inside lumpia was RAW!!!! Second, Sans rival had way too much buttercream and we ended up not eating them. Too bad, because this was one thing we were very excited about. They rush you out before your two hour sitting time by taking your plates without asking. It was very unwelcoming. Not cool.

I love high tea. I got it to go. I was treated really well, welcomed and given suggestions for my specific needs. This was the best tasting tea experience ever.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
High Tea Tea Sandwiches Quiche Beef Wellington
Parking space
Plenty of parking

I love Marlene's Tea & Cakes! My daughters and I have been lucky enough to experience afternoon tea here for years. The food is delicious, both the savory and the sweet. Soups are yummy. Teas are steeped perfectly. The decor is lovely and just perfect. Her scones are amazing. We've also purchased cookies, brownies and scones to serve at parties. Marlene (the person) is such a sweetheart. Love it!

Marlene's is AWESOME!!!!! Her tea and cakes the sandwiches so very delicious!!! She has added to her garden and it is lovely to sit outside and have your tea or inside is beautiful as well!!! Marlene is such a kind owner and has a wonderful staff! If you just want to treat a friend or have a gathering for tea, Marlene's is the place to do that!!! Check it out!!! You will love it!!!

Excellent experience. The service and food was terrific. I highly recommend tea on the patio
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
High Tea Tea Sandwiches Quiche Beef Wellington
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot, Free street parking

Lovely experience for our family of four, the food items were all delicious, and the ambiance on the patio sublime with butterflies and hummingbirds flying about the beautiful plants and flowers. Filled us all up for lunch, husband and children ages 12 and 13. Will definitely come again. The scones are the best we've ever had, soft and moist and great flavor.

Just Celebrated my 80th Birthday at Marlenes Tea & Cakes. Everything was perfect. The food was like little works of art .Lovely to look at and delicious. Our server was there to take care of all our needs.15 people ..Marlene was a kind & gracious host. Marlenes is by far the best Tea Room in the County.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

My friend and I went for the 11am tea. We sat inside. It was beautifully decorated, finger food was adorable looking and tasty. The staff and owner were friendly. It was pricy at just under 58.00 per person for finger food, but for something special or a nice treat for yourself and a friend , it is a beautiful experience.
Price per person
$50–100

The food is absolutely amazing! Every month there is a completely different menu. Everything is made in-house. Marlene's also offers award-winning teas. This is truly a taste sensation everyone should experience at least once in a lifetime or more frequently if you are a tea enthusiast. You really should make an appointment for afternoon tea today.

We were a large group of ladies and Marlene presented an excellent table presentation. When it was time to serve the tea and cakes, I was amazed at how such a small woman can work so fast, efficient and with a sweet smile on her face. I can see that she was a fine, strong business woman who strives for perfection.

Your superb teas and food were all so delicious. The staff were all so kind and attentive. My friend and I really enjoyed the entire experience. I will definitely come back again! Thank you!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Marlene is so talented and kind, this has to be one of my favorite places to go in San Diego. We went for my daughter's 6th birthday and have been back multiple times. She's following all the guidelines with COVID to keep everyone safe and we chose to sit on the patio which was beautiful.

Went for the first time and it was wonderful! Fresh floral bouquet on the table set the ambience, lovely english bone china..... delicious homemade sandwiches, soup, a strawberry scone that was outstanding, desserts were perfection. Friendly, efficient service. Wonderful ambience.

My favorite place to go when I'm looking for great food, great company, and a great atmosphere! The service is amazing and I truly can't get enough. Some of the best tea I have ever had! I could go on and on about how amazing this place and the people that work here are!

I don't understand why this place has high reviews. The owner and the waitress were rude. Horrible customer service. Yes the ambiance was good. The food was just OK. But if I had to spend $48/person to get that kind of customer service, I'd rather go somewhere else.

Elegant, soothing, gorgeous interior, outstanding service and the best pastries! At my first visit I reserved my next tea. It is located not that far from the Grand Del Mar and on par with that facility. Marlene is a gracious hostess and every detail is perfect!

I would give zero star if possible. Called and left message after the recording stated that I would be called back regarding my reservation request. Never heard from anyone; not even a courtesy call to tell me of no availability, if that’s what it was.

I attended a bridal shower here and it was beautifully executed! We were outside (it was a bit warm) and the frosting on our cupcakes melted but other than that it was a wonderful experience. I would suggest having inside in the summertime.

I love this place. The tea is amazing and they serve the best scones ive ever had. Marlene is always so accommodating and friendly. This is the perfect place for a nice afternoon with the girls or a nice place to celebrate a birthday.

Marlene's Tea and Cakes is the ONLY place I go for a a beautiful celebration with girlfriends or my daughters. Each decadent bite is so delicious and beautifully displayed. They have an amazing variety of tea!

Absolutely delightful! The food is fantastic--we all agreed they were the best scones we've ever had. The location is easy to find, and has a decent amount of parking. I am definitely planning on going back!

This cozy tea room has left the best impression. It has hospitable hosts, delicious dishes and tea. It also provides a beautiful presentation. I recommend to everyone, i already made my next reservation.

Marlene's Tea and Cakes is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon sipping tea and enjoying the company of friends. The food is delicious and Marlene is very attentive. I have been back many times.

My 7 year old and I enjoyed our mother daughter date here. We had a lot of family and friends ask where it was, and want to bring their children here, after I posted on social media.

Amazing! I loved everything about this place. The ambiance, the food (to die for), the tea & the staff. Make sure you have a reservation, not a place for spur of the moment walk ins.

This place is very lovely. I love their food and their cakes it's just enough to make you full but not feel gross! Their teas are freakin magical. I cannot get enough of their teas.

I just love this place. It's perfect for BFF gatherings. Find a reason to treat yourself and experience it first hand.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Everything was wonderful except I felt rushed after an hour...
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5

Great place to go have tea the food here was really good and the staff was very nice and interesting place to go to with Friends to enjoy a relaxing couple hours

Excellent food, wonderful friendly service beautiful decor and ambiance. One of my favorite tea houses.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

the decor is gorgeous, the tea is exquisite, and the little sandwiches are delicious! took our grandmother there for her birthday and she loved it :)

Excellent tea service. Amazing monthly menus with great variety of teas. Such passion and attention to detail. Absolutely worth it. Highly recommend!

2nd time here and the experience is the same WONDERFUL!!! This time I drug my husband, son and niece with me. We all spoke Brutish and we're stuffed.

Marlene and her staff are the best. Food is excellent. I’ve never been disappointed with any part of eating at this amazing place.

Good if you like this story or thing. It was mother's day and the service was lacking. They were a bit overwhelmed, but nice.

Such a great experience! The staff was very kind, and the food was delicious! The plants on the patio are stunning as well.

Cool quiet place to have with friends and beloved ones. I liked different varieties of Tea taste, interesting!!

Absolutely Fabulous. The ambience was beautiful and the food was amazing. You will not be disappointed.

Fav place in San Diego. Great food! Can get noisy when lots of people are there but love the ambience.

The food is good and well presented, but lacks any subtlety. The service is inexpert, albeit sincere.

Marlene's Tea and Cakes is such a special place to enjoy good food, good teas, and good company

Love Love love the atmosphere and the wonderful teas and sandwiches. Beautiful experience! !

Had tea with my girls today celebrating four birthdays food excellent service even

Absolutely delicious food and a very large variety of tea. Great staff too.

Marlene's is delicious and always a great time. Reservation is required.

Great place for a reservation. Fancy little tea house with great food.

Love this place ! Quaint, great food, and friendly, elegant atmosphere

Superb food, excellent ambience The best tea experience in San Diego!

Delicious, relaxed wonderful place to meet, talk and drink tea.

It's very nice and cute place, I would love to come back again.

Delicious selection of pastries. The scone was the bomb …

Too much sugar
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch

Service is so wonderful and it was such a fun experience.

Very good. Even with needing gluten free it was a treat!

Consistently delicious. Feels like a real treat.

Excellent food, consistently good tea service!!

Impressive. Very nice and beautiful cozy place.

Great food, friendly staff, and tons of teas.

Beautiful. Delicious food. Quiet and elegant.

Great tea room, plenty of delicious food

Great experience! Attentive staff!

Not my cup of tea. Great Teas!!!

Always delightful and delicious.

Everything was delicious

A wonder full of tea!

The food was amazing

Awesome experience.

Best tea in town

Arnie Reyes

Amazing!