The scone, with its buttery richness and crumbly texture, has long been a staple of British afternoon tea. But this delightful baked good has migrated across the pond and made its mark on American shores. While traditionally paired with clotted cream and jam, the scone has evolved in the United States to encompass a myriad of flavors and combinations. Whether you’re seeking a classic cream scone, a blueberry-laden treat, or a savory spin on this beloved pastry, the U.S. offers a vast array of options. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the best places to find scones near you, in this vast nation of culinary delights.
The Classic Scone Experience
If you find yourself on the East Coast, particularly in New York City, a visit to Alice’s Tea Cup is a must. This whimsical tea room, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland,” offers a variety of freshly baked scones daily. From traditional buttermilk to more adventurous flavors like pumpkin caramel, the choices are as delightful as the fairy tale-inspired décor.
Further south, in Charleston, South Carolina, The Harbinger Cafe & Bakery provides a blend of Southern charm and scone perfection. Their honey and lavender scone is a delightful concoction that melts in your mouth, blending sweet and floral flavors harmoniously.
A Modern Twist on Tradition
On the West Coast, San Francisco’s 20th Century Cafe is an homage to Central European pastries. While it might seem out of place to include this cafe in a list about scones, their Eastern European take on the treat is truly unique. Think flaky layers filled with jam or cream, offering a texture that is somewhere between a traditional scone and a strudel.
Los Angeles is home to Sqirl, a trendy breakfast and brunch spot known for its inventive dishes. Their scones are no exception, often featuring seasonal fruits, nuts, and even a dash of unexpected ingredients like rosemary or sage.
Savory Selections
For those with a palate that leans more towards savory, the United States has plenty to offer. The Sconery in Chicago serves up a cheddar and chive scone that is both buttery and bursting with flavor. Paired with a hot soup or salad, it’s the perfect comforting meal.
In Seattle, Crumble & Flake takes the savory scone to new heights with flavors such as bacon and blue cheese, or goat cheese with green onion. Their perfectly baked creations are a testament to the adaptability and versatility of the humble scone.
A Fusion of Flavors
America is known for its melting pot culture, and this is reflected in the scones one can find throughout the nation. In Houston, Texas, Common Bond Café & Bakery showcases this fusion with a spiced chai scone that blends the comforting flavors of India with the classic British treat.
And for those in Honolulu, Koko Head Cafe offers a tropical spin with its coconut and passion fruit scone, which not only tastes divine but also transports you straight to the Hawaiian islands with every bite.
The scone, though rooted in British history, has become a beloved treat across the United States. Each region, with its distinct culture and flavors, has put its own spin on this classic baked good. So, whether you’re yearning for a taste of tradition or seeking something a bit more out of the box, the U.S. has a scone for every palate.
So next time you find yourself wondering, “Where can I find the best scones near me?”, remember that in a country as diverse and vast as the United States, you’re never too far from a delicious scone experience.