When you think of high tea, what probably comes to mind is a fancy affair with dainty cups, delicious pastries, and beautifully steeped tea. While the tradition of high tea originated in England, the U.S. has wholeheartedly embraced it, with many cities offering their own unique takes on this timeless tradition.
Whether you're looking for a Victorian-style tea house or a modern twist on high tea, there's something for everyone. Let’s dive into the world of high tea across the United States!
What is High Tea?
Before we get into the details of where to enjoy high tea, let’s clear up a common misconception. Many people use "high tea" to describe the afternoon tea tradition. However, high tea was actually a working-class meal in England, served with hearty dishes like meat, bread, and tea, later in the evening. What most people refer to as "high tea" today is actually afternoon tea—a lighter meal that includes finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries served between 3 and 5 p.m. But for the sake of simplicity, we’ll stick to calling it high tea.
Where Can You Find High Tea in the U.S.?
Now that we've set the stage, let's explore some of the best places to experience high tea in the United States, from cozy tea rooms to luxurious hotels.
- The Tea House On Los Rios
- Afternoon Tea at the Phoenician
- Lady Mendl's Tea Salon
- Prince Tea House
- Afternoon Tea at The Brown Palace
- Afternoon Tea NYC & Breakfast at The PARISIAN TEA ROOM NYC
- Cha-An
- Silver Dove Afternoon Tea
- Té Company
1. The Tea House On Los Rios
Contact Details
Phone: (949) 443-3914
Website: theteahouseonlosrios.com
Address: 31731 Los Rios St, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Supports: Reservations, Takeout
This charming, flower-covered tea house located in Southern California offers both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon tea experience. Whether you're enjoying savory options like roast chicken or indulging in their specialty teas and desserts, The Tea House On Los Rios provides a cozy and beautiful setting for a tea lover’s dream.
2. The Phoenician
Contact Details
Phone: (480) 423-2649
Website: www.thephoenician.com
Address: 6000 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 2:00 – 3:00 PM
- Friday: 2:00 – 3:00 PM
- Saturday: 2:00 – 3:00 PM
- Sunday: 2:00 – 3:00 PM
Price: Expensive
Supports: Reservations
Looking for a more upscale tea experience? The Phoenician in Scottsdale is known for its luxurious afternoon tea service. The atmosphere here is sophisticated, and the food offerings are as elegant as they come. This tea experience is perfect for those looking to splurge and treat themselves.
3. Lady Mendl's Tea Salon
Contact Details
Phone: (212) 533-4600
Website: www.ladymendlsteasalon.com
Address: 56 Irving Pl, New York, NY 10003, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM
Price: Expensive
Supports: Reservations
Set in a Victorian setting, Lady Mendl's Tea Salon transports you back in time with its traditional high tea service. This spot is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a classic tea experience with scones, sandwiches, and sweets—all in a luxurious, old-world environment.
4. Prince Tea House
Contact Details
Phone: (917) 388-2778
Website: www.princeteahouse.com
Address: 204 E 10th St, New York, NY 10003, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Supports: Reservations, Takeout, Delivery
Prince Tea House offers a more modern take on high tea. Located in both New York City and Philadelphia, this tea house provides indoor and outdoor seating, takeout, and delivery options. Whether you're looking to enjoy your tea on-site or at home, Prince Tea House offers a flexible, yet refined tea experience.
5. The Brown Palace
Contact Details
Phone: (303) 312-8900
Website: www.marriott.com
Address: 321 17th St, Denver, CO 80202, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Supports: Reservations
For those visiting Denver, the historic Brown Palace offers an unforgettable high tea experience. Known for its old-fashioned tea service, complete with scones, pastries, and even adult beverages, this is the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon tea in a refined setting.
6. The PARISIAN TEA ROOM
Contact Details
Phone: (917) 696-2814
Website: theparisiantearoom.com
Address: 347 W 36th St., New York, NY 10018, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Supports: Reservations, Takeout, Delivery
This genteel tea room offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory bites, all beautifully presented on tiered trays. The Parisian Tea Room brings a touch of French elegance to New York’s tea scene, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a chic high tea experience.
7. Cha-An
Contact Details
Phone: (212) 228-8030
Website: www.chaanteahouse.com
Address: 230 E 9th St 2nd FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 3:00 – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 2:00 – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 – 7:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Supports: Reservations, Takeout
Located in the heart of New York’s East Village, Cha-An Tea House offers a serene tea experience with an extensive tea list and unique sweets. This tea house is especially known for its formal tea ceremonies, making it a great option if you're looking to experience the art of tea in a tranquil setting.
8. Silver Dove 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
Supports: Reservations, Takeout
In Boston, the Silver Dove Afternoon Tea offers a beautiful tea experience with both indoor and outdoor seating. This spot is perfect for tea enthusiasts looking to relax and enjoy a variety of teas paired with tasty bites.
9. Té Company
Contact Details
Phone: (929) 335-3168
Website: www.tecompanytea.com
Address: 163 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Supports: Takeout
This cozy tea shop focuses on offering a wide selection of oolong teas. If you’re a fan of tea tastings or want to try something unique, Té Company is the place for you. Though smaller than most tea houses, it offers an intimate atmosphere perfect for enjoying tea at a slower pace.
What to Expect at a High Tea in the U.S.
Now that you have some fantastic locations to check out, let's talk about what you can expect from a high tea experience in the United States. Most tea houses and restaurants that serve high tea offer a selection of finger sandwiches, scones, and desserts. Some venues may also offer more substantial fare, like roast chicken or quiche, depending on the time of day.
The tea itself is usually served in delicate teapots and cups, with options ranging from classic black teas to more exotic blends. If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, many places offer vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options, but it's always a good idea to check in advance or make a note when booking a reservation.
How to Book Your High Tea Experience
Most high tea establishments require or recommend reservations, especially on weekends or holidays. Many places allow you to book online through their website, so it's an easy process to secure your spot.
FAQs About High Tea in the U.S.
Q: What is the difference between high tea and afternoon tea?
A: While the terms are often used interchangeably, high tea is traditionally a working-class meal in England, served later in the evening. Afternoon tea is the elegant, light meal that includes sandwiches, scones, and tea.
Q: Are high tea experiences expensive?
A: Prices vary depending on the location. Some places offer moderate pricing, while others, like those in luxury hotels, may be more expensive.
Q: Can I find gluten-free or vegan options at high tea?
A: Many tea houses offer gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian options. It's best to check ahead when making a reservation.
Q: Do I need to dress up for high tea?
A: While many high tea spots have a casual dress code, some higher-end locations may encourage smart-casual or formal attire.
Wrapping Up Your High Tea Adventure
Whether you’re a seasoned tea lover or someone who just enjoys the occasional cup, high tea in the U.S. offers something for everyone. From luxurious hotel settings to cozy tea rooms, you can experience this elegant tradition no matter where you are. So, grab your friends, make a reservation, and get ready to indulge in one of the most delightful afternoon rituals around.
