If you’re after a lavish and bougie high tea experience in Los Angeles, then The Living Room Tea at The Peninsula in Beverly Hills is definitely worth checking out. As someone who’s been to several other tea spots in LA, I can confidently say that this one is my top pick!
The ambiance is simply stunning – from the moment you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to an old world English ballroom – think opulent and refined vibes. Every detail has been meticulously considered to ensure that your experience is one that you’ll keep coming back for. If you know me, you know that is not my vibe on the daily but once a year it is fun to dress up and act like an heiress enjoying her afternoon with no worries. I’ve always brought my mom with me…so before you ask – yes, this would make a great spot for a Mother’s Day celebration!
The Food
To start? The strawberries & cream palette cleanser. This refreshing and delicious treat is the perfect way to refresh your taste buds before you even begin, with its combination of juicy strawberries and rich house-made cream.
Love pastries and carbs? Me too. The Living Room Tea is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a good scone. Their scones are baked to perfection (my favorite is the currant scone), and the clotted cream and lemon curd that come with them are to die for. My favorite mini-sandwich is the chicken salad, which, get your taste buds ready…consists of: chicken salad, mascarpone, golden raisin & honey, cinnamon raisin bread. I could honestly go back just for these alone! (Seriously, Peninsula…you should sell these to-go)!
The tea selection is also impressive, boasting an array of teas to suit every taste bud. Floral, earthy, green – you want it they probably have it. Some of the blends are even rare and difficult to come by, making for a truly unique experience. I opted for the “Big Sur,” which had a subtle flavor profile with refreshing hints of mint (and bonus points, was very caffeinated).
The Vibes
The Living Room Tea is a unique experience that goes beyond just the food and drink offerings. The warm and inviting atmosphere is perfect for intimate gatherings…I’ve seen several folks celebrating birthdays and bridal showers! I recently treated my mom for an early Mother’s Day celebration, and she absolutely loved it. (She loves the luxurious, lavish vibes you get there).
The couches are my favorite place to sit, providing a level of comfort and privacy that’s hard to come by when you sit at one of their tables…so I highly recommend snagging one of the cozy couches if you’re planning to visit with a group of four or more.
The soft lighting and elegant decor only add to the already relaxing ambiance, creating a truly inviting space that’s perfect for unwinding and enjoying some leisurely conversation. (It is worth noting that the dress code is smart casual, so be sure to dress appropriately. That said, I got away with white adidas underneath a collared dress and was fine).
The Price
If you’re looking for a special treat, The Living Room Tea is a great choice. The price is a bit steep , but the experience is worth it.
Traditional Tea
Tea Selection, Menu and a glass of Laurent-Perrier, LP, Brut, France $125 per person, Endless Bubbles +$35
Royal Tea
Tea Selection, Menu and a glass of Laurent-Perrier, Brut Rosé, France $135 per person, Endless Bubbles +$50
I got the Traditional Tea menu, and ordered the apple cider which was the favorite of our table (everyone else ordered Brut, I picked a winner!) The staff are attentive and knowledgeable, and they’ll make sure that your tea service is nothing short of perfect. Tea refills happen frequently here, so keep that in mind when picking your caffeine level! If you’re planning to visit The Living Room Tea, I recommend planning early – they’re usually booked out weeks in advance.
So if you’re looking for a great high tea spot, The Living Room Tea at The Peninsula is definitely worth a visit. The scones, tea selection, and atmosphere are all top-notch, making it a must-visit for tea lovers, tea-curious, or just looking for a luxurious and indulgent experience in the City of Angels.