Marlenes Tea & Cakes

Address: 14677 Via Bettona, San Diego, CA 92127, United States
Phone: +1 858-756-4320
Services: Service options: Outdoor seating, Takeaway, Dine-in,
Highlights: Great dessert, Great tea selection,
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible car park, Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible seating, Wheelchair-accessible toilet,
Offerings: Coffee, Small plates,
Dining options: Lunch, Dessert, Seating,
Amenities: Toilets,
Atmosphere: Casual, Cosy,
Planning: Accepts reservations,
Payments: Credit cards, Debit cards, NFC mobile payments, Credit cards,
Parking: Free of charge street parking, Free parking lot, Parking,

Category: Tea house
Rating: 4.6
Site: http://marlenesteaandcakes.com/
Worktime:
DayTime
MondayClosed
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday10 AM–5 PM
Thursday10 AM–5 PM
Friday10 AM–5 PM
Saturday10 AM–5 PM
Sunday10 AM–5 PM




Name: C****** M***
Date: 2024-07-05 18:49:00
Rating: 2
Comment: Drove 1.5 hours to Marlene’s (online it says they’re open), and on the door it says reservation only. Pretty disappointing. Should really update their business hours.

Name: P**** P****
Date: 2024-06-25 14:57:02
Rating: 1
Comment: Very high prices $$$$$$

Name: k*********
Date: 2024-05-19 03:41:59
Rating: 5
Comment: Just had a beautiful afternoon tea at Marlene’s today and it was so beautiful and well set up, everything was so detailed and stunning! The tea and food was super tasty ! Service was amazing as well very welcoming and accommodating. The owner marlene was also an absolute joy and i will definitely be back for my next special occasion.
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Name: C*
Date: 2024-05-16 22:46:19
Rating: 5
Comment: Every detail impressed! The setting and ambiance are gorgeous, including the beautiful blooms and songbirds all around. We reserved for patio, 2ppl. Having all the details sorted as part of the reserve process kept everything flowing smoothly. The teas were excellent. The foods and desserts were exquisite in both presentation and preparation. The merengue was a personal favorite for me, as was the Beef Wellington. Marlene and her team kept the tea flowing and the guests smiling, enhancing the welcoming and elegant vibe. I loved having afternoon tea here and hope to again in the near future. It is obvious the owner, Marlene, is passionate in providing a wonderful experience to all who visit.

Name: D******** G***********
Date: 2024-05-14 04:07:37
Rating: 5
Comment: We had an amazing time here celebrating. The staff is so kind and friendly, absolutely wonderful. The food....tell you something...and thats not just saying...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. This isnt that, I left here full and satisfied with lots of leftovers. We had a grand ol time. Definitely recommend. I have already recommended Marlenes to a few friends and family. Trust, you will not regret it. Def, well worth it. You show up for the reservation, the table is set, tea hot and ready,dont spill all the tea. Very chill joint, no rushing, enjoy your time & people. Then when youre all done done. You simply get up and leave. If needed, they have to-go containers. No check, no tip. Its all included. Absolutely fantastic service. So kind. Enjoy yourselves.
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Name: S******** B****** H********
Date: 2024-03-16 09:27:55
Rating: 5
Comment: This is another amazing afternoon tea! I love that the menu is always changing and the tea is a burst of good flavor! If you want an elegant new experience this is the perfect place! I love the table setting it always matches and the food is so fresh and inventive I love that when you’re done you can go across the street and there is a field you can walk around it feels as if you were in the show Bridgerton lol
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Name: S**** P*****
Date: 2024-02-23 14:53:17
Rating: 5
Comment: Excellent food 😋, and service. Great place for a tea party!

Name: S****** V** C****
Date: 2024-02-12 12:23:55
Rating: 3
Comment: I’m posting this review because I’ve been to high Tea at several places here in San Diego. And I read the reviews of Marlene’s and I had equally high expectations. The food was exceptional. BUT, The service was really POOR, and really affected our overall experience negatively. Marlene’s makes you pick your tea when you book your reservation, so that it’s on the table when you arrive. Despite giving the waitress my name three times, she insisted that we were seated at the right table. That we had to call her back three times and tell her it was not in the Jasmine tea and have her finally figure out what she set us at the wrong tableWhat was more disappointing, however, was the lack of what I expect in Tea service. Other places will bring you ONE plate at a time, from your savories to your sweets. And they will tell you precisely what you are eating. We had to call our waitress back multiple times to explain to us what was on the tiered plates, because they were dropped off all at once. (The first one of course was the wrong one, because it was meant for the other table.) What was IN the food Items is really important because my friend has food allergies. There is no printed menu to refer to.Anyway, maybe we just had a bad day. But if you’re looking for great tea in San Diego, I recommend Britannia down in Point Loma. The service there is exceptional.

Name: R****** H****
Date: 2024-02-08 21:13:55
Rating: 5
Comment: Best tea in town

Name: M*** L************
Date: 2024-01-29 05:44:13
Rating: 5
Comment: I would like to think the pictures I posted say it all! However, they dont tell you about the exquisite taste and exceptional service. Everything from the service, decor, china, tea selections, and food make the entire experience unforgettable. They have inside seating and patio seating, we went on such a beautiful day, which added to the ambiance. Even on a cold and rainy day you can sit on the patio and keep dry with a tent and warm with space heaters. I have been to other afternoon tea establishments from old town San Diego to Beverly Hills, Marlenes Tea & Cakes is one of the best. The recipes are all her own and made in house. You can tell everything is made with love, which is evident in every bite. The only thing that made this experience even better was when Marlene came out to greet us, she is such a beautiful person that makes you feel like you were invited into her home for afternoon tea. I would also like to recognize her staff, I was only able to get the name of one of the ladies, Alma, but all of them were wonderful. This is a treasure to experience in the heart of San Diego, I will definitely be back!
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Name: M**** J****
Date: 2023-12-19 05:31:09
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: N**** R*******
Date: 2023-12-03 06:31:08
Rating: 4
Comment: Everything was wonderful except I felt rushed after an hour...

Name: M** K********
Date: 2023-11-04 18:58:23
Rating: 5
Comment: 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!

Name: J*** C*****
Date: 2023-10-01 16:13:11
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.
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Name: T****** V*****
Date: 2023-09-17 01:21:09
Rating: 5
Comment: Excellent experience. The service and food was terrific. I highly recommend tea on the patio

Name: N***** R***
Date: 2023-09-16 04:30:57
Rating: 5
Comment: Excellent food, wonderful friendly service beautiful decor and ambiance. One of my favorite tea houses.

Name: V******* H*****
Date: 2023-07-24 05:58:34
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: H***** C******
Date: 2023-07-16 22:58:54
Rating: 5
Comment: 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. Its 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!
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Name: J**** R***
Date: 2023-06-16 20:20:59
Rating: 5
Comment: We had an amazing tea at Marlenes. 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, Id highly recommend Marlenes for afternoon tea!!
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Name: L*****
Date: 2023-06-11 23:39:51
Rating: 5
Comment: We had the most fun at Marlenes afternoon tea! The tea was plentiful and we loved the fruit flavors. The homemade tomato soup was the best Ive 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.

Name: C******** C*****
Date: 2023-05-19 01:08:25
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: S***** L*****
Date: 2023-05-01 19:57:53
Rating: 5
Comment: 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!
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Name: K******* C*******
Date: 2023-04-13 00:21:50
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.
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Name: C G
Date: 2023-04-08 17:34:24
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: K**** C*******
Date: 2023-02-04 07:11:02
Rating: 5
Comment: This was our first Afternoon Tea. We received an invitation to Marlenes as a Christmas gift, and we werent 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 Im 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.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Name: L* C*****
Date: 2023-01-01 20:25:03
Rating: 5
Comment: I just love this place. Its perfect for BFF gatherings. Find a reason to treat yourself and experience it first hand.

Name: J*** S*******
Date: 2022-09-10 05:56:10
Rating: 4
Comment: Too much sugar

Name: J**
Date: 2022-07-12 17:31:24
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.
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Name: R*** W*****
Date: 2022-06-16 21:21:44
Rating: 5
Comment: Marlenes 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, Marlenes is the place to do that!!! Check it out!!! You will love it!!!
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Name: D**** D***
Date: 2022-05-14 20:37:39
Rating: 5
Comment: 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 :)
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Name: S**** H*******
Date: 2022-02-15 00:00:26
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.
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Name: A*** A******
Date: 2022-02-12 00:26:04
Rating: 5
Comment: Superb food, excellent ambienceThe best tea experience in San Diego!

Name: M****** L**********
Date: 2022-01-31 01:49:42
Rating: 5
Comment: 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!

Name: C*** M
Date: 2021-12-17 00:50:09
Rating: 4
Comment: Awesome experience.

Name: A** B
Date: 2021-12-05 01:59:34
Rating: 5
Comment: Absolutely delightful! The food is fantastic--we all agreed they were the best scones weve ever had. The location is easy to find, and has a decent amount of parking. I am definitely planning on going back!
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Name: J***** C****
Date: 2021-10-17 05:16:05
Rating: 3
Comment: 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.

Name: A
Date: 2021-10-10 05:38:48
Rating: 1
Comment: 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.

Name: L*** L***
Date: 2021-09-26 22:02:58
Rating: 4
Comment: Its very nice and cute place, I would love to come back again.

Name: B*** T** F*******
Date: 2021-08-22 22:49:52
Rating: 1
Comment: I dont 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, Id rather go somewhere else.

Name: J***** D******
Date: 2021-08-22 03:41:00
Rating: 5
Comment: 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
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Name: S**** M******
Date: 2021-08-21 20:43:41
Rating: 5
Comment: Great food, friendly staff, and tons of teas.

Name: S**** L*****
Date: 2021-08-14 19:14:43
Rating: 5
Comment: Marlene and her staff are the best. Food is excellent. I’ve never been disappointed with any part of eating at this amazing place.

Name: T****** M********
Date: 2021-08-08 20:00:12
Rating: 5
Comment: 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 weve ever had, soft and moist and great flavor.

Name: J****** S******
Date: 2021-06-04 19:22:00
Rating: 5
Comment: Such a great experience! The staff was very kind, and the food was delicious! The plants on the patio are stunning as well.
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Name: s**** G*******
Date: 2021-05-13 16:55:59
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: R******** D* S****
Date: 2021-03-26 19:41:24
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: A**** Y***** R******
Date: 2021-03-08 16:57:33
Rating: 3
Comment: Cool quiet place to have with friends and beloved ones. I liked different varieties of Tea taste, interesting!!

Name: M****** S******
Date: 2021-03-02 02:17:18
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: J******* G********
Date: 2021-02-06 01:40:57
Rating: 5
Comment: I love Marlenes 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. Weve also purchased cookies, brownies and scones to serve at parties. Marlene (the person) is such a sweetheart. Love it!

Name: J**** C*****
Date: 2021-01-23 00:20:11
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: M****** B****
Date: 2020-12-06 02:37:08
Rating: 5
Comment: Excellent tea service. Amazing monthly menus with great variety of teas. Such passion and attention to detail. Absolutely worth it. Highly recommend!

Name: A** H******
Date: 2020-10-19 01:15:17
Rating: 4
Comment: Very good. Even with needing gluten free it was a treat!

Name: R****** C***************
Date: 2020-07-02 04:54:59
Rating: 5
Comment: Marlene is so talented and kind, this has to be one of my favorite places to go in San Diego. We went for my daughters 6th birthday and have been back multiple times. Shes following all the guidelines with COVID to keep everyone safe and we chose to sit on the patio which was beautiful.
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Name: C****** P****
Date: 2020-02-17 01:58:17
Rating: 5
Comment: Had tea with my girls today celebrating four birthdays food excellent service even

Name: N*** R*** B****
Date: 2020-01-28 14:53:13
Rating: 1
Comment: 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 didnt know whether to laugh or cry, LOL! It was quite a shocking experience!
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Name: M*** J* C******
Date: 2020-01-23 21:42:25
Rating: 5
Comment: Delicious, relaxed wonderful place to meet, talk and drink tea.
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Name: A**** d* C*****
Date: 2019-11-28 21:48:44
Rating: 5
Comment: Love this place ! Quaint, great food, and friendly, elegant atmosphere

Name: F***** T*****
Date: 2019-11-27 01:47:51
Rating: 5
Comment: Impressive. Very nice and beautiful cozy place.

Name: C****
Date: 2019-07-19 05:24:14
Rating: 4
Comment: Delicious selection of pastries. The scone was the bomb😋
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Name: v**** a*******
Date: 2019-06-23 22:02:01
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: L*** W
Date: 2019-05-11 19:00:30
Rating: 1
Comment: 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.

Name: R*** P****
Date: 2019-03-31 00:49:05
Rating: 5
Comment: Great place for a reservation. Fancy little tea house with great food.
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Name: M****** T********
Date: 2019-01-21 02:03:36
Rating: 5
Comment: Consistently delicious. Feels like a real treat.

Name: A***** A*******
Date: 2018-12-19 04:29:33
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: R******* A** T********
Date: 2018-12-10 01:20:27
Rating: 5
Comment: Service is so wonderful and it was such a fun experience.
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Name: N***** M*****
Date: 2018-12-06 02:59:23
Rating: 5
Comment: Great tea room, plenty of delicious food

Name: J**** G*******
Date: 2018-11-09 06:29:13
Rating: 2
Comment: Service was poor. I made a reservation for a tea party, two of our guests had an emergency and couldnt 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.

Name: B****** C*******
Date: 2018-10-26 03:44:47
Rating: 4
Comment: 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.

Name: S***** G***
Date: 2018-10-21 20:50:27
Rating: 5
Comment: Absolutely delicious food and a very large variety of tea. Great staff too.

Name: J****
Date: 2018-09-10 01:00:48
Rating: 5
Comment: Amazing!

Name: S****** T****
Date: 2018-09-09 21:44:45
Rating: 5
Comment: Marlenes is delicious and always a great time. Reservation is required.

Name: P***** L*******
Date: 2018-08-30 21:35:50
Rating: 5
Comment: Absolutely Fabulous. The ambience was beautiful and the food was amazing. You will not be disappointed.

Name: f****** S*******
Date: 2018-08-28 23:19:41
Rating: 5
Comment: Everything was delicious

Name: K******* K*****
Date: 2018-08-04 19:56:10
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: E***** B******
Date: 2018-06-10 20:40:12
Rating: 5
Comment: Fav place in San Diego. Great food! Can get noisy when lots of people are there but love the ambience.

Name: B* R****
Date: 2018-05-31 16:07:57
Rating: 5
Comment: Great experience! Attentive staff!

Name: M********** G******
Date: 2018-05-28 00:56:30
Rating: 5
Comment: The food was amazing
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Name: G******** L***
Date: 2018-05-27 18:43:51
Rating: 3
Comment: Not my cup of tea. Great Teas!!!

Name: C******* C
Date: 2018-04-24 13:59:55
Rating: 4
Comment: 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 dont answer their phone. When you leave a message, it does take a few days for a response. The message said theyll 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 wasnt 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.Ive been to many Tea Parties and Marlenes feels more elegant (almost hotel-like) and not as homey as others Ive been to. (Ive 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 TwistSAVORIES: Cucumber & Herb Sandwich, Mini-Beef Wellington, Blue Cheese Mascarpone and Red Onion Confit Quiche, Chicken & Lemon-Tarragon Sandwich, Avocado Caprese ToastSCONES & FRUIT: Mixed Berry Scone, pineapple, strawberry, cantaloupe, grapesDESSERTS: Lemon Flower Tart, Tres Leches Cake Trifle, Raspberry Cheesecake White Chocolate Truffle, Chocolate Souffle CakeWe tried the following teas: Mango n Friends, Blueberry Bang (Rooibos), Creme Au Caramel, Lady LondonderryI 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 weve 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.
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Name: A** A I* D****
Date: 2018-04-15 00:15:20
Rating: 5
Comment: This place is very lovely. I love their food and their cakes its just enough to make you full but not feel gross! Their teas are freakin magical. I cannot get enough of their teas.

Name: M***** M********
Date: 2018-04-13 20:31:16
Rating: 5
Comment: Looking for a lovely, afternoon tea with delicate pastries, scones with clotted cream and sweet treats? Marlenes 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!
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Name: k****** m***
Date: 2018-02-15 14:59:51
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: G******** M***
Date: 2018-02-13 00:50:24
Rating: 5
Comment: The food is absolutely amazing! Every month there is a completely different menu. Everything is made in-house. Marlenes 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.

Name: S******* R**
Date: 2017-11-27 05:13:02
Rating: 5
Comment: Excellent food, consistently good tea service!!

Name: D**** C*******
Date: 2017-11-26 07:03:45
Rating: 5
Comment: Marlenes 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.

Name: M****** O****
Date: 2017-10-21 20:13:03
Rating: 5
Comment: 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!

Name: L** R********
Date: 2017-10-04 03:42:00
Rating: 3
Comment: The food is good and well presented, but lacks any subtlety. The service is inexpert, albeit sincere.

Name: B******* S****
Date: 2017-09-23 21:34:15
Rating: 5
Comment: A wonder full of tea!

Name: K***** M****
Date: 2017-07-01 19:25:02
Rating: 5
Comment: 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 were stuffed.

Name: A*****
Date: 2017-03-28 16:24:55
Rating: 1
Comment: Arnie Reyes

Name: G**** G******
Date: 2017-01-09 02:28:40
Rating: 5
Comment: 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.

Name: R*** l**
Date: 2016-12-18 15:01:19
Rating: 5
Comment: Beautiful. Delicious food. Quiet and elegant.

Name: D*** M****
Date: 2016-12-12 06:17:17
Rating: 1
Comment: The presentation was great. Thats 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 lets 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 dont 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 cant 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.

Name: C****** M******
Date: 2016-10-24 02:00:45
Rating: 5
Comment: Marlenes Tea and Cakes is such a special place to enjoy good food, good teas, and good company

Name: S**** S******
Date: 2016-06-09 17:36:11
Rating: 4
Comment: Good if you like this story or thing. It was mothers day and the service was lacking. They were a bit overwhelmed, but nice.

Name: S******* M***
Date: 2016-05-24 14:43:49
Rating: 5
Comment: Marlenes 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!

Name: S**** G********
Date: 2016-02-05 18:57:51
Rating: 5
Comment: My favorite place to go when Im looking for great food, great company, and a great atmosphere! The service is amazing and I truly cant 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!

Name: K**** T****
Date: 2016-02-03 16:40:22
Rating: 5
Comment: Love Love love the atmosphere and the wonderful teas and sandwiches. Beautiful experience! !

Name: A**** R****
Date: 2015-10-11 04:06:23
Rating: 5
Comment: Marlenes Tea and Cakes offers the absolute best English high tea dining experience. Its 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. Marlenes 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!

Name: L*** L*******
Date: 2015-08-27 18:33:14
Rating: 5
Comment: Always delightful and delicious.