New Life to Ye Old King’s Head Tea Room

Ye Old Kings Head, the perfect Rx or place to celebrate a special occasion because its just one of those places enveloped in good cheer.  A good friend, a festive high tea and long-time manager, Christine, presenting me with a “trifle” treat made it all work for me.  

Hospitality with an American hug,  backed by straightforward traditional British fare and faux posh atmosphere ensures a good time.  And, after decades of experience, capable Manager Christine is still as enthusiastic as ever. 

Its why Ye Old Kings Head makes the top ten Santa Monica places two visits.  Steps from the Third Street Promenade and a couple of blocks from the beach people watching from the outdoor patio is outstanding.  

Indoors cozy dining rooms and a posh tea room are decorated in old-fashioned casual, country-inn.  A  stone hearth fireplace blazes during the winter month.  You feel transported into a mid-century British movie, far from the chaotic world outside.

 

Established over three decades ago, Ye Olde King’s Head British Pub, Restaurant and Gift Shoppe feels enormous after numerous expansions.

The Olde King’s Head menu has received acclaim for its famous Fish and chips. All traditional fare is available for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. But the most fun is high tea.

High tea is served all day long in a smallish, most intimate room that feels very private.  Elegant and regal, with high ceilings and carpeting, burgundy and dark word are the prominent colors on the walls and in the banquettes and chairs.  Portraits of royalty hang on the walls.

A selection of Finger Sandwiches, Sausage Rolls, Quiche, Freshly Baked Scones served with Devonshire Cream & Preserves, Mini Pastries, Mini Chocolate Eclairs.
Specialty Tea or Coffee

Traditional Tea $22.00

A selection of Finger Sandwiches, Sausage Roll, Quiche,  Freshly Baked Scones & Preserves, Mini Chocolate Éclair, Specialty Tea or Coffee

The Royal Tea ($28.00)  includes a glass of Champagne, Mimosa or Kir Royale.  A  Princess Tea ($14.00) is designed for Children 12 and under. Psychic Tea also available with advanced bookings for $42.00 

Scone with Devonshire Cream & Preserves$5.00. Quiche of the Day ($12.00) is served with salad.

English Tea Sandwiches ($10.00) are served with salad and can be ordered separated or as an addition to a tea service.   The list includes Turkey, Cranberry & Cream Cheese. Egg & Watercress. Coronation Chicken. Cucumber with Cream Cheese. Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese. Tomato, Mozzarella & Basil with a Pesto Mayo.

TEA SELECTION (Loose Leaf Teas) includes Darjeeling, Earl Grey, English Breakfast. Irish Tea: Vanilla, Lady Grey. De-caf: Green tea, Herbal tea, the Strawberry-MangoThe bakery sells to-items, including Cakes and Pastries Scones, Cream Slice, Chocolate Éclair, Empire Biscuits, Trifle, Jam & Treacle Tarts, Apple & Blackcurrant Pie / Rhubarb Pie, Victoria Sponge Cakes, Eccles Cakes, and Shortbread.

The Gift Shoppe for great British fare including PG Tips, Cadbury, Heinz Baked Beans, HP Sauce, 99 Ice Cream,  Walkers crisps, McVities and classic British sweets.

At Christmas, a variety of classics are available including Christmas puddings, mince pies, selection boxes and tins of Roses and Quality Street.

The shop holds an extensive range of British made China such as Dunoon, Emma Bridgewater, and Aynsley. It also stocks Ye Olde King’s Head T-Alcohol and pub and soccer memorabilia.