Ready for a charming afternoon in Annapolis, MD? There’s something about high tea that feels timeless, indulgent, and just a little fancy – the perfect way to relax or celebrate. Whether you’re new to tea traditions or a seasoned enthusiast, Annapolis has some of the most delightful spots for high tea, each with its own character and charm. Here are four of the best places to sip, snack, and soak up the ambiance.
Top 4 High Tea Spots in Annapolis, MD
- Reynolds Tavern and 1747 Pub
- Baltimore Coffee and Tea Co
- 49 West Coffeehouse, Winebar & Gallery
- The Spice & Tea Exchange of Annapolis
1. Reynolds Tavern and 1747 Pub
Contact Details
Phone: (410) 295-9555
Website: reynoldstavern.org
Address: 7 Church Cir, Annapolis, MD 21401, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Price Range: Moderate
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Extras: Curbside pickup, delivery, reservations, takeout
If you’re after a classic high tea experience, Reynolds Tavern and 1747 Pub should be at the top of your list. Housed in a beautiful Georgian-style inn, Reynolds Tavern offers an authentic high tea with a side of history. This 18th-century building is as much a part of the experience as the tea itself, with its elegant décor and cozy yet refined atmosphere.
Why You’ll Love It:
- The Setting: Think Georgian architecture, rich wood paneling, and antique furnishings. You feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
- Tea Time Essentials: Reynolds Tavern serves a traditional high tea with a curated selection of teas, scones, finger sandwiches, and sweet pastries. It’s everything you’d want for a classic tea experience.
- Flexible Seating Options: Enjoy indoor or outdoor seating to suit your vibe. On cooler days, you can nestle into the cozy indoor space, but if it’s nice outside, their outdoor seating is perfect for people-watching in Church Circle.
Pro Tip:
This spot fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Reservations are recommended to make sure you get a spot. And if you’re in a hurry, they even offer curbside pickup and takeout – a modern twist on traditional tea.
2. Baltimore Coffee and Tea Co
Contact Details
Phone: (410) 573-5792
Website: www.baltcoffee.com
Address: 1910 Towne Centre Blvd #125, Annapolis, MD 21401, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price Range: Inexpensive
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Extras: Takeout, indoor and outdoor seating
Although it may not have the historical charm of other tea spots, Baltimore Coffee and Tea Co. is perfect if you’re looking for a cozy, budget-friendly place to enjoy tea in a casual setting. This place is known for its impressive selection of teas, as well as high-quality coffee, which makes it great if you’re going out with friends who want options.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Affordable Elegance: Baltimore Coffee and Tea Co. is a more relaxed spot to enjoy quality tea without the high price tag. Their tea menu covers a wide range, from classic Earl Grey to unique herbal blends.
- Comfortable Setting: With indoor and outdoor seating, you can sip your tea while watching the world go by or relax indoors with comfy seating and a chill vibe.
- Perfect for Takeout: Need your tea to-go? They offer takeout, so you can grab your favorite tea and enjoy it on the move.
Pro Tip:
Don’t skip their pastries and baked goods – they’re the perfect addition to your tea. While this isn’t a formal high tea setting, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable, casual tea experience in Annapolis.
3. 49 West Coffeehouse, Winebar & Gallery
Contact Details
Phone: (410) 626-9796
Website: www.49westcoffeehouse.com
Address: 49 West St, Annapolis, MD 21401, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Price Range: Moderate
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Extras: Delivery, reservations, takeout, indoor and outdoor seating
49 West Coffeehouse isn’t your traditional high tea venue, but it’s got character, ambiance, and some of the best tea options in Annapolis. Known for blending the artsy with the relaxed, 49 West Coffeehouse offers not only great tea but also wine, coffee, and American fare, all in a quirky and comfortable setting.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Art and Ambiance: 49 West is a haven for art lovers, with rotating local art exhibits and live music performances that add a unique flair to your tea experience. It’s high tea with a twist, where creativity meets comfort.
- Diverse Menu: While you can enjoy a variety of teas here, 49 West also offers light bites, pastries, and American fare. Pair your tea with something savory or sweet for a full experience.
- Flexible Service Options: They offer delivery, takeout, and reservations, making it easy to enjoy their offerings in whatever way suits you best.
Pro Tip:
Check their events calendar before you go! They often have live music, which can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your tea outing. Perfect for those who love a laid-back, artsy environment with a splash of sophistication.
4. The Spice & Tea Exchange of Annapolis
Contact Details
Phone: (410) 280-2088
Website: spiceandtea.com
Address: 155 Main St, Annapolis, MD 21401, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Extras: Curbside pickup, takeout
The Spice & Tea Exchange of Annapolis isn’t your typical high tea spot but rather a unique destination where you can create your own tea experience at home. This specialty shop is a tea lover’s dream, offering a huge variety of loose-leaf teas, spices, and exotic blends you won’t find elsewhere.
Why You’ll Love It:
- DIY High Tea: The Spice & Tea Exchange offers everything you need to recreate the high tea experience at home. Grab a few blends, maybe some scone mix, and you’re ready to host a cozy tea session for friends or family.
- Specialty Teas: From black and green teas to unique herbal infusions, you’ll find a tea for every taste here. They even have seasonal flavors, which are fun to explore and experiment with.
- Friendly for Beginners: If you’re not sure where to start, the staff here are more than happy to guide you. Whether you want to try a classic Earl Grey or something a bit more adventurous, they’ll help you find the perfect tea.
Pro Tip:
Ask about their spice blends! They make wonderful pairings with tea and add a gourmet twist to your at-home high tea setup. And if you don’t have time to explore, they offer curbside pickup and takeout.
Choosing the Right Tea Room for You
With 4 excellent tea rooms, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Tea Room | Seating | Takeout | Delivery | Wheelchair | Reservation | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reynolds Tavern and 1747 Pub | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Baltimore Coffee and Tea Co | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | No | Inexpensive |
| 49 West Coffeehouse, Winebar & Gallery | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| The Spice & Tea Exchange of Annapolis | – | Yes | No | Accessible | – | – |
FAQs: All You Need to Know About High Tea in Annapolis
What’s the difference between high tea and afternoon tea?
High tea traditionally includes more substantial food like meats and cheeses, while afternoon tea is lighter and focuses on scones, pastries, and finger sandwiches. In the U.S., the term “high tea” is often used interchangeably with afternoon tea.
Do I need a reservation for high tea?
While it depends on the place, spots like Reynolds Tavern and 49 West Coffeehouse do recommend reservations, especially on weekends. It’s best to call ahead!
Can I order tea to-go?
Absolutely! Baltimore Coffee and Tea Co. and The Spice & Tea Exchange offer takeout options, so you can grab your tea and enjoy it anywhere.
Are there vegan or gluten-free options?
Many high tea spots in Annapolis accommodate dietary needs, but it’s a good idea to call ahead. Some may offer gluten-free pastries or vegan-friendly snacks.
Where can I find unique teas to try at home?
For a variety of teas to experiment with at home, The Spice & Tea Exchange is the place to go. Their selection is perfect for creating a personalized tea experience.
Make Your High Tea Experience in Annapolis Memorable
Annapolis offers a range of high tea experiences, from traditional to creative twists. Whether you want a full-service high tea in an 18th-century inn, a budget-friendly tea stop, a lively artsy venue, or a DIY setup at home, there’s something here for everyone.
Take your pick, invite a friend or two, and enjoy an afternoon filled with good tea, tasty treats, and great company. Happy sipping!