They recycle old pastries/sweet and savory/ that they don't sell in the shop at their tea services @Britannica & Shakespeare's. I recommend trying another Brit grocery/bakery store in San Diego County for authenticity and honesty. Update: the "owner" just posted a response, attacking my character (apparently I'm not allowed an opinion), in an attempt to defend her unethical business practices (recycling old food). I could just call the SD Health Board and report what they're doing. Hopefully my review will prompt the "owner" to stop cut-price shady practices especially regarding food! I've had first hand experience with what I've shared here. And as I've mentioned, I recommend trying other British grocery/cafes in San Diego that will provide quality and honesty. read more

**February 2024: Monday Early afternoon visit** My friend and I really enjoyed Britannia's Tea Time that we decided to check out the main shop to shop for tea bags. Upon arrival we were challenged with the tight parking spots. Most of the area was metered or if you ventured to the residential area it was up or down a hill. Thankfully we found a car pulling out and took his spot. Hallelujah! We walked up a couple of stairs and entered the store on the second level. They had a dedicated area of loose leaf teas that they use at the Britannia Tearoom, which is owned by the same owner, as well as a fair assortment of other British items like tea strainers, Harry Potter themed candies, and more. I think if you're looking for authentic British goods this store will surely have what you're looking for. Cheerio! read more

Great meat pies and pasties, large selection of British teas, condiments and cookies ("biscuits"), lots of British tourist items like tea towels and china. Highly recommended store. read more

I Love coming in here. The women working here have Lovely British accents. I've been to England & am familiar w Pastries & English snacks, etc. ***The only thing (-) is that this Shop is Over the Top, Over-priced. I don't know how to Rate this Store. I like to walk in and see what they have. I have tried there English Breakfast Tea that they Brew & also the frozen Pie that you'll have to take home and pop in the toaster/or oven. I am wondering if the Recipe was from the 1800s. I'm Sorry, I don't mean to be rude. The pie did give me that vibe. (I am a fan of the 18th Century.) But, I was carefully chewing to make sure shat I was eating was a Fresh pie and not something that was aged. And, the fresh sausage pastries they make Fresh everyday which is yummy... It's just that things are really Expensive here. And, it seems to be Due to that they come from England. The Quality is Good, but, it's just too over-priced. read more

Short - Bring Quarters for parking, some patience, this is a good place for novice tea drinkers or first teas for young (over 3yrs) children, great spot for imported goods, great view. I will only return for the shoppe. Long - love this English shoppe! I have been hooked on the English Baking Challenge, and this Shoppe has the ingredients I would need to bake song side the show. However, it also has some of the dishes prepped and ready to go, so I could have just taken them home... which is so on my list to do. There is also a wonderful selection of English chocolates, that you can't find anywhere else in San Diego (no, not even Major Market or World Market). Theses two reasons alone are why you should stop in. My two friends and I went for tea, alwys make reservations!!!!. I learned a lot about my friends OCD that day, and perhaps some of my own. The tea service has six lovely tables set up outside, this is something to consider. I think I would not book an afternoon tea for July-October, it would be sweltering hot. Perhaps the earliest seating would be ok. There is one server for all six tables, and she gets bussssssy. Upon arrival you are welcomed with the tea menu, and the sniffing bar. I love this touch. You can look at and smell all the selections with the menu in hand. They have a huge selection, a great variety. This really made the selection of tea much easier for me. Well done!! Be sure to try the in-house blended teas, they are great!! When seated, they offer a cup of the featured tea, which is featured to go with the menu of the month. I love the creativity of the menu. They don't remain stagnant (as some other tea shops do), having the same menu month after month. Then they brew your selected tea. I had the James Bond, which I highly recommend. It's sooo good! I was dinning with two gluten free friends. Our server was very cognizant of making sure there was no cross contamination. She pointed out all of the dishes on the tower. I enjoyed my food. My friends who had the gluten free, they didn't. I tasted everything they had. As a person who looovvvves food, I can say this. My tea was better, with one exception - the quiche. The gluten free option was better. It was an odd combo to say the least. I really appreciated the thought and effort that the chef put into the GF menu, trying to keep it as close to the standard menu as possible. My friends say it missed the mark in execution, they described it as ho-hum, dry, tasteless at best. They even said that the entire top tear of the bit was in edible. They tried and did their best. But, asked for lunch on their way to the car. And... there was mold on one of the strawberries. Which we found near the end of the service. I loved on the toasty, the lime/lemon mouse, the lemon curd, the Jameson chocolate pie, all very good. I was surprised at the soup. The flavor was good - spot on perfect, like the one we had in Ireland. What I was surprised on was the portion size. At other tea houses the soup has traditionally been a small cup service, this was about 2 tablespoons of soup. As it goes to service, there was one waitstaff for all tea tables. She didn't have opportunity to check back to see if we liked our tea, to pour more tea in our cups or any of the softer touches one may expect of afternoon tea. When she stopped by, she was very lovely, but, she was very busy. I suspect she was also doing work in the kitchen too. I think they need more staff. My OCD friend writhed at the mismatched tea cups and tea pots. I smiled and told her they were charming. If you need your tea pot and tea cup to match, this is not the tea house for you. This is a more relaxed chill San Diego does English Tea vibe, tea house. See Coral Tea Room if you need to be all matchy-matchy to enjoy your tea, or come here for a charming English Tea with a great rotating menu. Serious reductions for lack of service and moldy fruit. The two stars remain for the English Shoppe where I know I will return to again and again. read more

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Great selection of brit foods & condements. They had the mincemeat i needed for holiday treats and a nice selection of teas and even some meat pies in the freezer in back. Will be back... read more

I love this little shop, Bryan and I were actually going to have some food at Shakespeare's Pub and Grille but accidentally walked into the Corner Shop instead, good accident! I was so excited, we haven't been back to the UK in 2 years so I was missing out on the crisps, chocolates and cumberland sausage! When we were walking in there were two women on the deck having afternoon tea, ugh I so wanted to partake! We ended up getting mini sausage rolls, a flake bar and a cheddar and onion walker crisps! The mini sausage rolls are super flaky and buttery and the cumblerland sausage was perfect. They even have cumberland sausage in the freezer ready to go home, along with pastys and ... CLOTTED CREAM, my office is super close by so I'll definitely be dropping by again to stock up on my UK goodies. Prices for crisps are $1.80 a little expensive for the size but totally worth it. Getting clotted cream next time to put on my scones! read more

They have everything I need from home to not miss home! Lol Don't miss the frozen section! Shepherds pie and sausage rolls are delish. And they have some GF options as well. read more

This is my favorite place to go for afternoon tea. Alicia (employee) and Selina (owner) really make the experience for you. Alicia is so friendly and welcoming. Selina is very involved in The House of England in Balboa Park, (the International Cottages; it's "It's a Small World" in real life!). After coming here for afternoon tea for probably 10 years, I only recently realized they sell British food to warm up at home, which is a gamechanger! I can have sausage rolls with Branston Pickle whenever I please?! Yes! Also, Alfie, Selina's son, did a good job explaining some British snacks to me. I enjoyed trying different flavors of chips/crisps and chocolates. I think it's a nice cultural experience to come here. read more

This was my 3rd time here. Never disappointed. The atmosphere is great, the food is great, the teas are awesome & the people are amazing!!! I 100% recommend coming here for afternoon tea!! read more

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You have to try the cheese and onion and grandmas Cornish pasty! I buy these for everyone in my house every time I'm on this side of town. They are so flavorful and big enough for two meals. read more

Lots of fun, like a little shopping trip to England. Heinz brown sauce from Ireland is great, apple and brown sugar flavor to put on any meat I overcook. Best time to come is when the parking isn't full of diners at the many nearby restaurants. So 9-11:30 or 2-4. read more

This is a quaint little shop with a couple of nice English ladies working there. I had a deal to use so I made my way through every aisle pretending like I would end up leaving there with anything other than food items! I ended up with 2 packs of frozen scones to bake at home, clotted cream to spread on them and Danish butter that I knew would take a few years off my life! Not sure if I'd go back without a great reason or another Groupon but it was a neat experience and the items I purchased were all good...especially that crazy creamery butter!! read more

This shop is amazing! We bought their sticky toffee pudding (that was made in house) and it was out of this world

Outstanding experience. To have afternoon tea you must make reservation. Once you arrive select the tea you would like to drink and be seated. They will bring you first small dish, followed by plate tower which main dishes. After that is complete they will service you desserts. Make sure to come hungry as these dishes are filling! read more

Skipped the tea... although, I realize I need to come here (someday) and have afternoon tea. My boys aren't exactly "afternoon tea" type of company. The Corner Shoppe is my go to place for haggis - that's right... haggis (veggie version for me). Don't knock it til you try it... it's really good after you douse it with really good whiskey (prefer Scotch just like Ron Burgundy) or whiskey gravy (http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/whiskey-cream-sauce-recipe.html). Having relatives who live in England and Scotland... I was introduced to this type of "food". Glad they have a vegetarian version... now I'm hooked. Better if you try haggis in the winter... the Scotch will definitely warm your stomach (and your entire body... even your eyelashes) and keep you wanting more. Ha! Tip: Make sure you call the shop to see if they have them in stock. They do sell out fast! read more

Shakespeare's Corner Shoppe sells some pretty cool stuff. I mean, they earn pretty much all of their stars from me because they had Terry's Chocolate Orange products in stock. Fuck, yeah! I LOVE those things! Other notable products (for me) included Yardley Orange Blossom perfume, some cool soaps, and a "Fairy" brand dishwashing liquid. All of my male friends probably wouldn't find it funny if I gave them all Fairy soap and told them that I had found their signature product, but hey, if I'M chuckling, that's what's important, right? As I entered the shoppe, I noticed that some customers were enjoying a sit-down tea party outside. Cool! I would love to try that someday. British or not, prices seemed a tad high for pretty much everything in the store. Service was non-existent until we checked out at the register. read more

Okay, so why have I gone from giving a place a 2 star review to a five star review? Quiet simple: the owner responded to my Yelp and not only offered to replace my product, but she also made some changes based on my feedback. Seriously, I used to run and manage a retail scuba diving shop, and we would hear people complain about this and that, but our owner never did anything about it, nor did he care. From a consumer's standpoint, and from someone who knows the ends and outs of running a retail shop, I was surprised by the owner's friendliness and her desire to make things right with a customer. In my last review I was complaining about the price of Marmite. However, she explained that with the cost of shipping they are barely making money on it. I remember ordering product from Italy when I was in retail, and thinking back I do remember how the shipping worked. And Marmite is heavy, so that makes sense to me. Also, some of the other items have been discounted due to condition that occurred from shelf wear, etc. Furthermore, they can't sell beer due to some issues in getting a license that would severely effect their profitability. After reading her explanation in made total sense. The owner also explained to me, with a sincere apology, that the product I had purchased must have been somehow overlooked when they were re-stocking the shelves. Based on her professional and friendly manner in contacting me about the incident, I completely believe her. Also, I understand that these things can happen in a busy shop. I am picking up my new product tomorrow, and will use them in an upcoming tea party. Also, I will be returning to this shop for all my British food needs. BTW, the owner of the pub seems equally cool. I gave the pub 4 stars right off the bat, but after complaining about a certain misleading item on the menu, the owner over there showed my review to the chef and they said they will make some changes. Wow!! These guys are great and take feedback seriously! For that, they have my loyalty! read more

If you're a British subject like myself (Canadian) sometimes you get the fever for a Cadbury. The only thing that'll put it out is The UK Cornershoppe! It's hard to categorize a store that brings in all the things you miss about home, like tea pots (Brown Betty) or Devonshire cream, or tea's, lemon butter, and humor like The Black Adder or Monty Python...but even if you're not from Britain, and you are from a commonwealth country, you'll know what I mean. Of course if you feel like yelling (it's awfully loud in there) and chowing down on some curry fries, go over to Shapespeare's Pub, it's a restaurant that is part of the store "just across the way". read more

As if I needed another excuse to stop by the Shakespeare. If the allure of an imperial pint and delicious pub grub isn't enough for you, Shakespeare's Corner Shoppe will surely push you over the edge. The Corner Shoppe offers one of the most extensive selections of British food and merchandise I've seen in the States. We're talking chocolates, sweets, biscuits, canned goods, crisps, cheese, gravy, jams, ready-made sauces (mmm.. curry), soups, teas, frozen foods (sausages! real bacon!), as well as a variety of gifts and seasonal items. (Highly recommended: Easter and Christmas, when there is delicious chocolate galore. Easter eggs, anyone?) Of course, the items are a little more expensive than you'd expect to pay at a local grocery store, but they're imported from the UK and well worth the splurge. The store is true to its name and never disappoints; Shakespeare's Corner Shoppe is the sort of place we Brit expats expect to find back at home rather than here in sunny San Diego. Luckily for us, we experience the best of both worlds on India St! read more

I've been to the pub many times and had no idea that this Shoppe existed. It's a cute, little shop, separated from the pub itself, carrying a variety of British tchotchkes, souvenirs, food, and sweets, much more than Cost Plus World Market carries. Great selection of Cadbury chocolates in the middle of the store. Picked up some Cadbury Flake for a little Easter gift for my coworker who's from Scotland. She's gonna be surprised and I'm sure will love it! read more

This is a very unique store, and for British ANYTHING you're not apt to find one like it within the San Diego area. While I haven't been served tea here, I have ordered from their catering menu and purchased finger sandwiches, scones, and cakes to host a tea of my own. Their food is excellent -- you simply have to arrange it on your own trays and you'll look like a Brit in no time. (Don't forget the Devonshire Cream and Lemon Curd!) They have a good tea selection, centered around the standards. And it's always fun to look at the candies and English tchotchkes that they have shipped in. All in all, a delightful store. read more

Once upon a time, I lived in London, England. I would pop out to the shoppe for some sarnies, crisps, and biscuits all too frequently. I tasted the awesomeness of ketchup flavored Walker's, milk chocolate Hob Nobs and Winegums. The Corner Shoppe takes me back to a time when I was much cooler than I am now. Aside from all the aforementioned goods, they carry teas, canned goods, and all the junk food you know and love from abroad. They also have crumpets and pasties in a fridge for your consumption. You can even pick up "Ok!" and "Hello" magazines to get your latest gossip on the Beckhams. Ahhhh...memories. I was here on Sunday night and my only gripe was that there were not a lot of things in stock. I had to settle for cheese and onion Hula Hoops instead of chicken flavored Walker's. *sad face* I know...getting this stuff requires exporting and some of it may sell out in the interim, but still.... The good news is that I will have to return soon! read more

Prawn cocktail crisps! Cadbury Crunchie bars! Digestives!! Chocolate and regular--how you dip so nicely into my Earl Grey! Saucy Brit gossip mags! Even the prices are British. Er... read more

While I've never done afternoon tea here, I've perused their shelves many a time when I'm feeling nostalgic towards my British roots. They have all the best stuff you can't find on this side of the pond. It's a bit on the pricey side, but, like my friend said when we visited the other day and were checking out some biscuits, "we're paying for it's plane ticket." They don't carry my favorite ever British candy, Refreshers, but I'll let it slide because they DO have Jammie Dodgers and Jelly Babies. Don't those sound so appetizing??! read more

This place is so awesome! When you walk into the gift shoppe it feels like a slice of England. I recently got back from a trip to London and I couldn't feel more at home here. There is every kind of British candy and tea. The ladies working there are cheeeeeeky and fun! Not only should you go here for anything European, but you should go for just a fun experience. I happened to be there when the fresh sausage rolls came out... YUM! read more

I like this little British gem. The ladies and workers are always cheery. I luv their accents. They have bangers and mash in the freezer along with Cadbury and Flake chocolate. If you're out and about and want to be cultured for a second. This is something different. Just a fun place to check out all British products from real Brits working the counter. read more

No I didn't have Afternoon Tea here. I think reality has finally hit me that I'm not on holiday and not returning to the UK... missing the UK hardcore. So to combat that, I thought I would drive from the North County to this store to check it out. The store is indeed cute and cozy, a number of people on the patio having tea. A number of staff tending to them, but none of them tending to the store. They do have a decent stock of items, not just food items too. Now having spent three years in the UK and stopping by American food stores every now and then, I understand the higher prices because the items are imported... however there was a coffee mug, I happen to have the very same one (purchased from a National Trust store), for $29.95! Holy moly... I got mine (if you figure in the conversion rate) for $15. It is a cute mug and I love mine dearly, but that is a bit steep. The food items seemed to be more within my price range. Unfortunately I didn't see Winegums (I'm addicted to them and I can eat an entire bag... maybe a good thing I didn't see them), also didn't see Dark Chocolate Hobnobs or Custard Cremes. I was also looking for some Sticky Toffee Pudding and while no store bought dessert (with the exception of Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding) can be better than a homemade dessert, but I just wanted a quick fix (man I sound like a junkie!). They had these little servings, in everything, but Sticky Toffee Pudding... there was an empty basket and I assume that is once where the Sticky Toffee Pudding was... and because there were no staff around in the store, I couldn't ask if they had anymore. They did have Cadbury Buttons... I love me some buttons! I did see the pasties and mini sausage rolls in the warmer at the counter. Unfortunately I'm not a fan of curry, but they did look lovely. Sadly I left empty handed, but if I am in the area again, I would stop by, hoping to find what I am looking for... and I think my mom and I will try Afternoon Tea sometime, although it will be tough comparing it to the Afternoon and Cream Teas that I have had in the UK! read more

Excellent store for when the British are feeling homesick and want some old style comfort food. I regularly visit and pick up candies and 'crisps'. Some Irish food there too, if that's what takes your fancy. read more

Amazing place! I love European candy and they have such a large selection including Bueno bars and crunchy bars! The ladies were so nice and helpful! I will definitely be coming back to a tea day! read more

Awesome store! I can get all the goodies from when I was a child in London. The selection is perfect. This is a definite place to check out while in the area. Parking isn't the best, but don't give up as you will not be disappointed once entering this store. Check it out! read more

Quaint little shop, lovely service. I get my Curly Wurly and Turkish Delight sweets here, along with my favorite English tea: PG Tips. A couple of weeks ago, I was on a quest to find treacle, and they actually carry it! So, my next assignment: Try their afternoon tea and sandwiches. read more

I buy all my candy bars, frozen Irish Meats and Heinz Beans here- I work with Salina and I adore her!!! Her shop is so cute and filled to ceiling with sweet treats! I can tell how much love she puts into this place! I also highly recommend her sausage rolls!! Love this place , I can almost every Thursday.... read more

I can't help myself from popping round the shop when I eat at Shakespear's. I usually order and then tell my boyfriend "I'll be back in a minute, nipping in the shop for a minute." He knows I can't just spend a minute or even 10 in there, he usually has to come and drag me back to the table because our food is there and getting cold. After a meal I always go back and spend a fortune on the goods of my childhood....Flakes, Malteesers, Mars Bars, Lion bars, Iron Bru (a must if you're hungover), Ribena, orange squash, Heinz Baked Beans (better than American Baked Beans by far!) as well as the goods from the freezer that you just can't get here like bangers and bacon. I don't know why but everything from England just tastes THAT MUCH BETTER. They even have my absolute FAVORITE lollie, a Swizzlers Double decker lollie. Stop in when you have a moment, and bring your $$$$ cuz you will spend lotsa DOUGH!!! Cheers! read more

Love this place, I get their premade frozen scones to make at home and get some buttons. I have visited London twice and always go there when I miss it read more

Neat little shop to buy British stuff: candy, tea, and other food goods. Also they sell novelty stuff like hats and Union Jacks. Prices may be a bit higher than supermarkets, but they are on par for novelty stores. The shop may be hard to find, for it is behind the Shakespeare Pub. Parking can be a challenge during the dinner time too, so plan to visit on off peak restaurant hours. read more

I have always been VERY happy with this place. Selena catered my bridal shower and my wedding reception. She puts 100% into whatever she does and it is always A+. I will continue to use her services at events and to tell all my friends and customers about her unique store. Thank you Selena! read more

This place is awesome. The owner was extremely helpful. The service was impeccable. And the food was absolutely amazing.

They have a large selection of British goods here. It was really fun to look around. I was able to find a lot of good tea for myself and my grandmother. read more

Not gonna lie, but I love chocolate from northern Europe, and this place is within walking distance of my apartment, so I'll often go here for my fix instead of Ikea. It's charming, and as a bonus, they also carry whisky fudge. read more