The Best Afternoon Tea In SF

"Since the early ‘90s, Lovejoy’s has been serving Noe Valley relaxed afternoon tea in a parlor that looks like it belongs in an East Midlands cottage. Union Jacks cover the walls, mismatched furniture and china are plentiful, and tea-related knickknacks fill the wooden shelves. The tea (which you can order a la carte or with a fixed set of scones, crumpets, and sandwiches for $39) is bottomless, and comes in giant tea kettles that you’ll want to take for your ever-growing home collection. While the sandwiches and scones are nothing special, you’re really here to grab a felted crown from the crate in the corner and pretend you’re English royalty on a country vacation. Although not required, reservations will ensure a spot during their busiest tea-sipping hours (early afternoon on Saturday and Sunday). " - ricky rodriguez, julia chen 1, lani conway