Aristocrats created afternoon tea to provide more active relaxation than afternoon naps and healthier recreation than pistols at dawn. Indulge in a safe noble pastime with today's Groupon: for $11, you get $22 worth of high tea fare at Lisa's Tea Treasures in Menlo Park.

Lisa's Tea Treasures shelters a trio of elegant and hospitable tearooms where guests sip brews and sample fine baked goods during authentic Victorian-style tea services. The high tea menu fills upper-crust cups with variety of loose-leaf teas steeped in ornate porcelain pots ($6.95). The earl grey floral augments black leaves with rose petals as a lighter alternative to the rich, malty tones of pure assam, and jasmine dragon pearls enhance hot water with green orbs snatched directly from the jaws of sleeping firebreathers. Finger-sized sammies populate the chewable selections, such as the Venetian's Romance, a mix of tea sandwiches spread with salmon mousse, tomato-basil cream cheese, and other toppings; a fresh scone with Devonshire cream; puffs seasoned with roasted garlic and cheese; and a sweet dessert finale ($22.95). Mademoiselle’s Creation acknowledges oft-forgotten salad forks with mixed greens, seasonal berries, and feta cheese tossed in a strawberry vinaigrette ($18.95). À la carte aficionados may elect to pick their own tea sandwiches ($8.95 for five), dessert selections ($6.95 each), and kickball teammates from the teahouse's list of options. All afternoon tea selections come with a complimentary hot tea, coffee, chai, cocoa, milk, or lemonade.

Antique light fixtures, teapots, and flower vases take refuge in the softly lit chambers, whose pastel walls hold portraits and shelves lined with antique curios. Relish breaths of fresh air between sips on the patio porch, where guests are free to shout vulgarities at passing birds when they feel themselves lulled too far into a peaceful state of tradition-induced bliss.