High tea in Calgary is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you're looking for a cozy, historic tea room, a trendy bubble tea spot, or a high-end restaurant serving refined afternoon tea, the city has something to satisfy every craving. This guide will take you through the top 10 places in Calgary where you can indulge in high tea, with everything from traditional finger sandwiches to exotic teas and decadent pastries.
What is High Tea?
High tea is a British tradition that’s been around for centuries. Originally, it was a hearty evening meal for the working class, but over time, it evolved into a more refined afternoon treat, often served with delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, scones, and, of course, a variety of teas. In Calgary, high tea is often served in a luxurious or cozy setting, with a few modern twists, making it perfect for a relaxing afternoon with friends or family.
Top 10 High Tea Spots in Calgary, AB
- AFTERNOON TEA
- Oolong Tea Shop Kensington
- Deane House
- Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant
- Royaltea
- The Wild - a Tea Room
- Thé Moon Tea House - Downtown
- The Restaurant at Lougheed House
- HI-Tea
- Hutch Cafe
1. AFTERNOON TEA
Contact Details
Phone: (403) 260-1219
Website: www.fairmont.com
Address: 133 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 2M3, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: 12:00 – 3:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 3:00 PM
Price Range: Expensive
Supports: Indoor or outdoor seating, Takeout, Reservations
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
If you’re looking for a classic high tea experience in Calgary, the Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Palliser is your go-to spot. This grand hotel offers a beautiful setting, complete with vintage décor, to enjoy a selection of loose-leaf teas, finger sandwiches, scones, and sweets. Whether you’re lounging inside or enjoying the outdoors on their patio, it’s an elegant and timeless experience.
Why Go Here:
- Historic, elegant setting
- Traditional tea experience with all the classic treats
- Great for special occasions or a luxurious treat
2. Oolong Tea Shop Kensington
Contact Details
Phone: (403) 457-5450
Website: www.oolongteashop.ca
Address: 110 10 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1V3, Canada
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 – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price Range: Moderate
Supports: Delivery, Takeout, Indoor/Outdoor seating
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
For those who enjoy a more casual atmosphere with a modern twist on tea, Oolong Tea Shop in Kensington is a must-visit. Known for its vast selection of premium teas, including bubble tea, this shop brings a new vibe to the classic afternoon tea. You can sip on freshly brewed tea while snacking on light bites or pick up a takeaway for an afternoon treat.
Why Go Here:
- Trendy spot with a focus on loose-leaf teas
- Great bubble tea options
- Casual and cozy atmosphere
3. Deane House
Contact Details
Phone: (403) 264-0595
Website: www.deanehouse.com
Address: 806 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0S2, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price Range: Expensive
Supports: Curbside pickup, Indoor/Outdoor seating, Reservations, Takeout
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Located in a beautifully restored historic house by the river, Deane House offers a refined afternoon tea experience with a Canadian twist. Their seasonal menus are packed with fresh, local ingredients, and their elegant setting adds to the charm. Whether you’re enjoying their tea selection with a side of gourmet pastries or opting for their refined seasonal cuisine, Deane House is perfect for those who want to combine high tea with fine dining.
Why Go Here:
- Gorgeous setting with riverside views
- A refined twist on traditional high tea with a focus on local ingredients
- Ideal for a special occasion
4. Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant
Contact Details
Phone: (403) 476-1310
Website: www.bvrrestaurant.com
Address: 15979 Bow Bottom Trail SE, Calgary, AB T2J 5E8, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Price Range: Expensive
Supports: Reservations, Takeout, Indoor/Outdoor seating
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Bow Valley Ranche is a great place for those who want to combine high tea with upscale Canadian cuisine. Their menu includes unique offerings like bison and elk, served in a stunning historic ranch house. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking for a combination of fine dining and a traditional afternoon tea experience in a beautiful, rustic setting.
Why Go Here:
- Upscale Canadian fare with a focus on wild game
- Historic setting with a cozy atmosphere
- A refined take on traditional afternoon tea
5. Royaltea
Contact Details
Phone: (403) 454-5483
Website: drive.google.com
Address: 931 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 1A8, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM
Supports: Delivery, Takeout, Indoor/Outdoor seating
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
For a more relaxed take on high tea, Royaltea offers a fantastic selection of teas with some creative flair. They’re known for their unique bubble tea offerings and light snacks, making it a fun spot to visit with friends. It’s casual, comfortable, and perfect for those looking for something different from the traditional high tea.
Why Go Here:
- Creative tea blends, including bubble tea
- Relaxed atmosphere
- A fun twist on the classic high tea
6. The Wild - a Tea Room
Contact Details
Website: www.the-wildhearted.com
Address: 55 Westwood Dr SW, Calgary, AB T3C 2V8, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 8:00 – 9:30 PM
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: 9:00 – 10:30 AM
Supports: Reservations, Indoor/Outdoor seating
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
This whimsical tea room is all about nature-inspired décor and a delightful tea experience. The Wild offers a cozy environment where you can sip on carefully crafted teas, enjoy homemade pastries, and take a relaxing break from the busy city. It’s a great spot for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere.
Why Go Here:
- Cozy, nature-inspired décor
- Homemade treats with your tea
- A relaxing, calm vibe
7. Thé Moon Tea House - Downtown
Contact Details
Phone: (403) 455-0778
Website: www.tmoon.ca
Address: 212 14 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 1C7, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price Range: Moderate
Supports: Delivery, Takeout, Indoor/Outdoor seating
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Thé Moon Tea House offers a modern, stylish atmosphere perfect for tea lovers. From their vast selection of bubble tea and coffee drinks to their simple yet tasty snacks, this spot is ideal for those looking for something casual but still with that high tea experience. You can sip and snack in a bright, trendy space with lots of natural light.
Why Go Here:
- Stylish, modern vibe
- Great for bubble tea fans
- Casual but fun tea experience
8. The Restaurant at Lougheed House
Contact Details
Website: lougheedhouse.com
Address: 707 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0K8, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Supports: Reservations, Indoor/Outdoor seating
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Lougheed House is a historic mansion turned restaurant, offering an elegant setting for high tea. Their afternoon tea service is served in an intimate, refined atmosphere that feels like a step back in time. Whether you're a fan of classic tea sandwiches or scones, their menu doesn’t disappoint.
Why Go Here:
- Historic mansion with a refined atmosphere
- Elegant, intimate setting
- Classic afternoon tea treats
9. HI-Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (587) 717-6688
Address: 312 Centre St S, Calgary, AB T2G 2B8, Canada
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 – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Price Range: Inexpensive
Supports: Delivery, Takeout, Indoor/Outdoor seating
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
HI-Tea is a budget-friendly yet delightful spot in Calgary for bubble tea lovers and high tea fans alike. Known for its extensive menu of bubble teas, milk teas, and light snacks, HI-Tea is perfect for anyone looking to try something new and exciting without breaking the bank.
Why Go Here:
- Affordable with a wide variety of bubble teas
- Fun, casual setting
- Great for a quick, tasty tea break
10. Hutch Cafe
Contact Details
Phone: (403) 454-8823
Website: www.hutchcafe.com
Address: 795 1 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 5N1, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Supports: Delivery, Takeout, Reservations, Indoor/Outdoor seating
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Hutch Cafe offers a cozy spot to enjoy high tea, perfect for a laid-back afternoon with friends. Their menu is focused on light bites, coffee, and a great tea selection. Whether you're looking to relax with a warm cup of tea or indulge in one of their signature pastries, Hutch Cafe is a wonderful option.
Why Go Here:
- Cozy, casual atmosphere
- Great for a relaxing tea break
- Perfect for a quick tea stop or a longer visit
Choosing the Right Tea Room for You
With 10 excellent tea rooms, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Tea Room | Seating | Takeout | Delivery | Wheelchair | Reservation | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AFTERNOON TEA | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | Yes | - |
| Oolong Tea Shop Kensington | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No | Moderate |
| Deane House | Yes | Yes | - | Accessible | Yes | Expensive |
| Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | Yes | Expensive |
| Royaltea | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No | - |
| The Wild - a Tea Room | Yes | No | No | Inaccessible | Yes | - |
| Thé Moon Tea House - Downtown | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No | Moderate |
| The Restaurant at Lougheed House | Yes | No | - | Accessible | Yes | - |
| HI-Tea | Yes | Yes | Yes | - | No | Inexpensive |
| Hutch Cafe | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | - |
FAQs About High Tea in Calgary
What is the best place for traditional high tea in Calgary?
For a classic experience, Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Palliser offers a luxurious setting and a traditional menu.
Where can I get bubble tea and afternoon tea in Calgary?
Royaltea and Thé Moon Tea House both offer bubble tea along with a selection of other teas, making them great casual spots.
What’s the average cost of high tea in Calgary?
Prices vary, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $60 per person, depending on the location and menu offerings.
Can I make reservations for high tea in Calgary?
Yes, many places like Deane House, Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant, and The Restaurant at Lougheed House offer reservations, so it's always a good idea to book ahead.
Whether you’re a tea connoisseur or just looking for a cozy spot to enjoy some scones and tea, Calgary has a diverse selection of high tea spots. From historic mansions to trendy cafes, there's a perfect place waiting for you to indulge in a delightful afternoon tea.
