by Frank Sabatini Jr.

—[ secret san diego ]—

Tucked away on an upper courtyard of a commercial complex in Middletown is a quaint patio where traditional high teas are served from noon to 4 p.m., every Thursday through Sunday. The space is part of Shakespeare’s Corner Shoppe, a quaint British grocery store specializing in imported delicacies like pickled walnuts, jarred minced meat and Christmas crackers. The high teas adhere to proper decorum: flowery chinaware, candlelit pot warmers, miniature jam bowls and three-tiered trays harboring scones, assorted finger sandwiches and sausage rolls with Branston pickles. In cooler weather blankets are provided for that extra English touch.

3719 India St. • 619-683-2748