Afternoon Tea in Santa Barbara

Delight in an exquisite afternoon sipping tea at Lokum in Santa Barbara, where the allure of Turkish coffee and tea awaits. Sip on the aromatic Bergamot Turkish tea or savor the robust Karadeniz Export tea as part of your afternoon indulgence. With every sip, the vibrant yet cozy ambiance of Lokum will transport you on a Turkish journey, right in the heart of State Street.

Photo courtesy of Lokum

Step into a secluded garden oasis at Santa Barbara’s charming Simpson House Inn, where afternoon tea offers a delightful escape just steps from downtown. Built in 1874, this historic Victorian estate transports guests to a bygone era, complete with lush gardens and one of Santa Barbara County’s only two English oak trees. Served daily from 1-4 p.m., Afternoon Tea in the Garden features a seasonal assortment of savory finger sandwiches, freshly baked rosemary scones and delicate pastries inspired by the estate’s gardens and Central Coast ingredients. Pair your afternoon treats with a selection of traditional and herbal teas, or elevate the occasion with a glass of Champagne or sparkling rosé.

Photo credit: @simpsonhouseinn via Instagram

A State Street staple that’s been around for over 40 years, family-owned Andersen’s Danish Bakery & Restaurant is a must-visit for afternoon tea. The menu consists of delectable pastries like apple strudel and petit fours, alongside savory sandwiches featuring cucumber and cream cheese or smoked Scottish salmon. Enjoy a complimentary bottle of champagne to make your visit extra memorable while you savor a variety of teas amidst the cozy, European-style atmosphere.

Photo credit: @valelolaboss via Instagram

Experience the epitome of elegance at San Ysidro Ranch in Montecito with afternoon tea in the gardens. Taste tea sandwiches, seasonal scones and house-made pastries, meticulously crafted to perfection alongside the resort’s wide selection of 14 different kinds of teas. For a touch of opulence, accompany your treats with bubbles with options like Charles Heidsieck brut reserve or a half dozen Beausoleil oysters on the half shell. To partake in this luxurious experience, be sure to call ahead and reserve your spot.

Photo courtesy of San Ysidro Ranch

Enjoy enticing afternoon tea offerings at Alessia Pâtisserie & Cafe, where signature pastries, quiche tartlets and tea sandwiches await. This popular bakery in the Presidio neighborhood offers an experience much like one you’d find overseas, with the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting from the kitchen and cappuccinos made to perfection. During your reservation, snack on fan-favorites like cucumber and herb cream cheese or smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwiches and wash it all down with assorted teas and sparkling drinks—a treat for every taste bud.

Photo credit: Silas Fallstich (@fullframefoodie), courtesy of Alessia Pâtisserie & Café