Rose Tree Cottage

For a kitschy, distinctly English afternoon tea, this beloved Pasadena establishment offers two reservation-only seatings on weekend afternoons at 1 and 4pm. Each tea service includes a glass of sparkling elderflower cordial, a pot of house blend tea and a three-course set that includes Rose Tree's famously delicious scones—and the entire service is overseen by a butler in full traditional uniform. Given the overall Britishness of the place, expect savory bites like beef Wellington, toad-in-the-hole and Welsh rarebit alongside sweets like sticky toffee pudding. Note that Rose Tree Cottage takes afternoon tea reservations only a week in advance—and strictly over the phone.