It’s not quite the glamour of London or Paris, but San Francisco does have a few posh places to enjoy one of the most civilized of dining experiences: afternoon tea. Particularly during the holidays, it’s a comforting tradition to sip on fine china, snack on sandwiches and sweets, and take in festive decor.
Typically this time of year, the downtown hotels and department stores are putting up massive trees and twinkle lights, making tea a seasonal treat. Sadly, they’re largely closed this year. Notably absent from this list: The Fairmont is closed to the public, so no holiday tea inside a life-size gingerbread house. The Palace has shuttered the historic Garden Court, where guests usually settle in under a golden dome filled with chandeliers. And Neiman Marcus has dimmed the Rotunda, that extraordinary glass structure with a sweeping view of Union Square.
But the neighborhood shops are still open for business, and ready to serve some holiday cheer. And who better to support this time of year than small local businesses? And what better way to connect with friends and family than over a cozy cup of tea? Whether you feel comfortable taking a seat in a parklet, or want to pick up a fabulous takeout box to go, here’s where you can still find a cozy afternoon tea to celebrate the holidays.
1. Maison Danel
Maison Danel, the sparkly new patisserie and tea salon, was waiting for this moment to shine. It’s a shame to miss out on afternoon tea under the big chandelier, but husband-and-husband team Danel and David de Betelu are now boxing up the afternoon tea service for takeout and delivery, and a parklet is in the works for December. They’re doing it up right for the holidays: A special box includes a smoked salmon sandwich with caviar, gingerbread cake, candied orange zest, and red and green meringues, and will be available starting December 3.
2. Crown & Crumpet Tea Stop Café
Maison Danel, the sparkly new patisserie and tea salon, was waiting for this moment to shine. It’s a shame to miss out on afternoon tea under the big chandelier, but husband-and-husband team Danel and David de Betelu are now boxing up the afternoon tea service for takeout and delivery, and a parklet is in the works for December. They’re doing it up right for the holidays: A special box includes a smoked salmon sandwich with caviar, gingerbread cake, candied orange zest, and red and green meringues, and will be available starting December 3.
3. Son and Garden
Maison Danel, the sparkly new patisserie and tea salon, was waiting for this moment to shine. It’s a shame to miss out on afternoon tea under the big chandelier, but husband-and-husband team Danel and David de Betelu are now boxing up the afternoon tea service for takeout and delivery, and a parklet is in the works for December. They’re doing it up right for the holidays: A special box includes a smoked salmon sandwich with caviar, gingerbread cake, candied orange zest, and red and green meringues, and will be available starting December 3.