If you're looking for a charming afternoon sipping tea and nibbling on finger sandwiches in Cambridge, MA, you're in for a treat. From traditional high tea services to modern tea houses with bubble tea, Cambridge has something for every tea lover. Whether you want a cozy spot to relax or an elegant venue for a special occasion, these 9 high tea locations will hit the spot.
What is High Tea?
Before we dive into the best spots, let's quickly clear up what high tea really means. Contrary to what many think, high tea isn’t all about fancy china and dainty snacks. Originally, high tea was more of a hearty meal served in the evening after a long day of work, especially for laborers. Over time, it evolved to include what we think of as "afternoon tea" — light bites and pastries with a variety of teas.
So, when you’re hunting for the best high tea spots in Cambridge, you’ll find everything from traditional English tea service to modern takes on tea, like bubble tea and loose-leaf brews. Let’s get into it!
Top 9 High Tea Spots in Cambridge, MA
- Mem Tea Imports
- Dado Tea
- Silver Dove Afternoon Tea
- The Vintage Tea and Cake Company Belmont
- Abigail's Tea Room
- Courtyard Tea Room
- Ten One Tea House
- Tea-Do Central SQ
- Kung Fu Tea
1. Mem Tea Imports
Contact Details
Phone: (617) 627-9500
Website: memteaimports.com
Address: 196 Elm St, Cambridge, MA 02140, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Services: Curbside pickup, Takeout
Wheelchair-accessible: Yes
Mem Tea Imports is a tea lover’s paradise. Known for their high-quality loose-leaf teas, they offer a great variety of flavors and blends to choose from. While they don't provide a full sit-down service, their tea selection is perfect for those who want to bring the high tea experience home. Grab a cup to go, or stock up on loose-leaf teas to brew at home. Tip: Don’t miss their seasonal blends for a cozy treat in fall and winter.
Why Visit?
- Best for tea enthusiasts who want high-quality loose-leaf options.
- Ideal for those who prefer curbside pickup or takeout for a tea experience at home.
2. Dado Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (617) 497-9061
Website: www.dadotea.com
Address: 955 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Services: Indoor and outdoor seating, Takeout
Price: Moderate
Wheelchair-accessible: Yes
Dado Tea is a cozy little gem in Cambridge, offering a calming tea experience whether you're sitting inside or enjoying the outdoors. The ambiance is simple but inviting, and their selection of teas ranges from classics to unique herbal blends. It's perfect for a peaceful afternoon, with a moderate price tag that makes it accessible to most tea lovers.
Why Visit?
- Great for those who enjoy a relaxing indoor or outdoor tea setting.
- A variety of teas paired with light snacks, perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
3. Silver Dove Afternoon Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (781) 203-1223
Website: silverdovetea.com
Address: 24 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02108, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Services: Indoor and outdoor seating, Reservations, Takeout
For a more elegant and traditional afternoon tea experience, Silver Dove offers a refined selection of teas, finger sandwiches, and pastries. You’ll want to make reservations to enjoy the full experience, especially on weekends. This tea spot is perfect for special occasions or a treat-yourself kind of day. The setting is beautifully decorated, offering both indoor and outdoor options.
Why Visit?
- Ideal for traditional high tea enthusiasts looking for an elegant atmosphere.
- Perfect for special celebrations or a chic afternoon out.
4. The Vintage Tea and Cake Company Belmont
Contact Details
Phone: (617) 230-1431
Website: www.vintageteaandcake.com
Address: 129 Belmont St, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Services: Curbside pickup, Indoor and outdoor seating, Reservations, Takeout
Step into a time machine at The Vintage Tea and Cake Company, where you'll feel transported to an English tea room. They serve up classic English-style tea, complete with scones, clotted cream, and finger sandwiches. You can also grab their scones to-go if you're not able to stay for the full experience. Their charming showroom is perfect for small gatherings or simply enjoying some quiet time.
Why Visit?
- Great for those who want an authentic English tea experience.
- A cozy spot for tea lovers who also want the option of takeout.
5. Abigail's Tea Room
Contact Details
Phone: (866) 955-0667
Website: www.bostonteapartyship.com
Address: Tea Party Ships & Museum, 306 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Services: Indoor and outdoor seating, Takeout
Price: Inexpensive
Wheelchair-accessible: Yes
For a touch of history with your tea, head to Abigail’s Tea Room at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. This floating tea room offers a unique Colonial-era tea experience with cookies and snacks, all at an affordable price. The views are great, and the tea is even better. Perfect for families or anyone interested in learning a bit of history while sipping their tea.
Why Visit?
- Ideal for history buffs who want a unique tea experience.
- Affordable and family-friendly, with a great view of the harbor.
6. Courtyard Tea Room
Contact Details
Phone: (781) 763-1360
Website: www.thecateredaffair.com
Address: 700 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:45 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:45 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:45 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:45 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:45 PM
Services: Indoor and outdoor seating, Reservations
Price: Moderate
Wheelchair-accessible: Yes
Nestled inside the Boston Public Library, the Courtyard Tea Room is a hidden gem. You’ll sip on New American fare with your tea, surrounded by the stunning architecture of the Italianate courtyard. Make sure to book ahead, as reservations are often required. It’s the perfect blend of tea, books, and beauty.
Why Visit?
- Perfect for book lovers who want to enjoy tea in a beautiful setting.
- Great for a quiet afternoon with a moderate price tag.
7. Ten One Tea House
Contact Details
Phone: (857) 639-5090
Website: www.tenoneteahouse.com
Address: 54 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
Services: Delivery, Indoor and outdoor seating, Takeout
Price: Inexpensive
If you're more into bubble tea, Ten One Tea House is your go-to spot in Cambridge. They serve up refreshing bubble tea options with high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood to sit inside, hang out on the patio, or just grab and go, Ten One has you covered. Their teas are tasty, affordable, and perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Why Visit?
- Best for bubble tea fans looking for a refreshing drink.
- Affordable and quick, with both delivery and takeout options.
8. Tea-Do Central SQ
Contact Details
Phone: (617) 750-8564
Website: teado-central-sq.square.site
Address: 425 Massachusetts Ave #4c, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
Services: Delivery, Indoor and outdoor seating, Takeout
Price: Moderate
Wheelchair-accessible: Yes
Tea-Do in Central Square offers a modern twist on tea with their bubble teas and flavored drinks. The seating options are both indoor and outdoor, making it a great stop year-round. With a moderate price point, it's perfect for a quick tea break during a day of shopping or sightseeing.
Why Visit?
- Great for those looking for modern, flavorful tea drinks.
- Ideal for grabbing a drink to-go or sitting for a short break.
9. Kung Fu Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (617) 714-5055
Website: linktr.ee
Address: 1160 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Services: Delivery, Indoor and outdoor seating, Takeout
Price: Inexpensive
Kung Fu Tea is a bubble tea specialist, serving up all kinds of hot and cold drinks, including slushes and coffee. It’s a popular spot for students and anyone looking for a quick, fun tea fix. The prices are super reasonable, making it a favorite for bubble tea lovers on a budget.
Why Visit?
- Perfect for bubble tea fans who want a fun variety of drinks.
- Affordable and ideal for a quick break or a takeout drink.
Choosing the Right Tea Room for You
With 9 excellent tea rooms, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Tea Room | Seating | Takeout | Delivery | Wheelchair | Reservation | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mem Tea Imports | No | Yes | - | Accessible | - | - |
| Dado Tea | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | No | Moderate |
| Silver Dove Afternoon Tea | Yes | Yes | No | - | Yes | - |
| The Vintage Tea and Cake Company Belmont | Yes | Yes | - | - | Yes | - |
| Abigail's Tea Room | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | - | Inexpensive |
| Courtyard Tea Room | Yes | No | No | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Ten One Tea House | Yes | Yes | Yes | - | - | Inexpensive |
| Tea-Do Central SQ | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No | Moderate |
| Kung Fu Tea | Yes | Yes | Yes | Inaccessible | No | Inexpensive |
FAQs
What’s the best spot for traditional high tea in Cambridge?
For a classic high tea experience, Silver Dove Afternoon Tea offers the most traditional service with elegant decor and delicious bites.
Where can I get bubble tea in Cambridge?
You’ve got plenty of options for bubble tea, but Ten One Tea House, Kung Fu Tea, and Teaholic are local favorites.
Is there any tea spot with a historical twist?
Check out Abigail's Tea Room for a tea experience that blends history with a relaxing afternoon.
Whether you're in the mood for classic high tea or something more modern, Cambridge has plenty of tea spots that cater to all preferences. Each location offers something unique, from affordable bubble teas to refined traditional tea services.
