Peering through the windows of The English Rose Tea Room in downtown Pleasanton,  everything looked as if it came straight out of a Victorian period English film. Complete with biscuits, sugar cubes and fine china, the inviting locale seemed like an intriguing escape from pressures of the regular workday.

I’m not exactly a tea aficionado, but I would find it interesting to explore the various flavors and unique aromas that are out there. Tea drinking in the United Kingdom has a unique and formal  history, but due to the changes in custom and working hours, the afternoon tea ritual has basically become reserved for special occasions. Loose Black tea is usually served first and followed by a progression of sandwiches, pastries and fruits.

The English Rose Tea Room is open on Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11a.m. to 5p.m.

- Joseph Natividad