Nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca, NY, offers a quaint yet sophisticated experience with its delightful high tea tradition.
Imagine a serene afternoon, where the clinking of fine china and the aroma of freshly steeped tea blend with the laughter and conversation of friends.
In Ithaca, high tea becomes an art form, featuring an array of delicate pastries, scones with clotted cream, and a selection of the finest teas.
Whether it’s in a historic inn or a cozy downtown café, high tea in Ithaca is a charming escape that invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
1. Sacred Root Kava Lounge & Tea Bar
Sacred Root Kava Lounge & Tea Bar offers a unique cultural experience with its authentic Kava drinks, guided by the knowledgeable staff.
It’s a perfect spot for those looking to unwind and socialize in a spacious setting, ideal for events or just a casual meet-up.
While primarily known for its Kava, the lounge also provides a variety of teas and light snacks that complement the earthy tones of Kava.
The prices are reasonable, ensuring a worthwhile visit without breaking the bank.
2. Dream Tea & Poke
Dream Tea & Poke offers a cozy retreat with its charming ambiance and friendly staff.
It’s a delightful spot for bubble tea aficionados and those seeking tasty vegan options in Ithaca.
Don’t miss out on the vegan beef and chicken bowls, bursting with flavor and perfect for a nutritious meal.
For a sweet finish, indulge in the coconut milk tea, a crowd favorite that promises to leave you craving more.
3. Sweet N’ Salty
Sweet N’ Salty offers a cozy retreat with a diverse team that brings a world of flavors to Ithaca.
Their expertise in crafting waffles, crêpes, and churros ensures a delightful experience for all taste buds.
It’s a combination that promises to leave you smiling and satisfied, just as it has for many who highly recommend this charming spot.
4. U Tea Bubble Tea
U Tea Bubble Tea stands out as a beacon of modern tea culture in Ithaca, offering a cozy retreat for college students and locals alike.
With its vibrant atmosphere and a mission to serve up the most delicious and unique tea beverages, it’s a place where tradition meets trendy.
Indulge in the Taro Milk Tea with boba for a creamy delight, or explore the exotic flavors of Thai tea and mango coconut jelly drink.
Not only are the drinks a treat for the taste buds, but they’re also easy on the wallet, all under $10.
Plus, the charming mini red heart on each cup adds a touch of love to your tea experience.
5. Botanist Coffeehouse
Nestled in the heart of Ithaca, Botanist Coffeehouse offers a tranquil escape with its cozy ambiance and a selection of fine teas that promise to soothe the soul.
It’s the perfect spot for tea aficionados and those seeking a peaceful retreat from the daily hustle.
Pair your tea with their signature scones or the delightful assortment of pastries.
Each bite is a blend of traditional flavors and a touch of modern zest, making your high tea experience at Botanist Coffeehouse truly unforgettable.
6. Hound and Mare
Nestled in the heart of Ithaca, Hound and Mare offers a cozy retreat for those seeking a warm, inviting atmosphere.
It’s the perfect spot to unwind with friends or enjoy a quiet moment alone, surrounded by the comforting aroma of fresh espresso and baked delights.
Don’t miss out on their signature egg sandwiches, crafted to perfection with the freshest ingredients.
Pair it with a selection from their full espresso bar, and be sure to indulge in the housemade baked goods that are the talk of the town.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Hound and Mare promises a high tea experience that’s both satisfying and memorable.
7. The Greenhouse Cafe & Cocktail Lounge
The Greenhouse Cafe & Cocktail Lounge offers a tranquil oasis in the heart of Ithaca, with its lush greenery and warm, inviting atmosphere.
It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a long day or to catch up with friends over a cup of tea.
Indulge in their exquisite selection of teas paired with delectable scones and finger sandwiches.
The seasonal fruit tarts and artisanal pastries are not to be missed, each bite a delightful complement to their aromatic teas.
8. Chatty Cathy Coffee and Juice Co.
Chatty Cathy Coffee and Juice Co. offers a cozy retreat in the heart of Ithaca, perfect for a relaxing high tea experience.
With its welcoming ambiance and extended hours every day of the week, it’s an ideal spot for both early birds and afternoon loungers.
Indulge in their freshly baked scones paired with clotted cream and a selection of homemade jams.
Don’t miss out on their assortment of delicate finger sandwiches and the signature Chatty Cathy macarons that add a pop of color and sweetness to your tea tray.
9. Taichi Bubble Tea – Ithaca
Taichi Bubble Tea – Ithaca stands out with its cozy ambiance and a diverse menu that promises a delightful high tea experience.
It’s the perfect spot to unwind, offering free Wi-Fi and a welcoming atmosphere for both work and relaxation.
Don’t miss out on the grilled pork Taichi bowl and the salmon poke bowl, both praised for their flavors.
For drinks, the mango lemon green tea is a hit with its robust tea essence complemented by fruity notes.
While the original milk tea is considered average, the other offerings are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
10. Kung Fu Tea
Nestled in the heart of Ithaca, Kung Fu Tea stands out as a haven for bubble tea enthusiasts.
Its prime location near Cornell University makes it a convenient stop for a refreshing break.
The rose hip milk tea is a crowd favorite, offering a unique floral twist to the classic milk tea.
With the ability to customize sugar levels and boba quantity, each drink is tailored to your taste.
Don’t miss out on their diverse menu that promises a delightful experience with every visit.
11. Coal Yard Cafe
Coal Yard Cafe stands out as a charming retreat in Ithaca, offering a cozy ambiance perfect for a relaxing high tea experience.
The use of local roasters’ beans ensures each cup of coffee is fresh and full of flavor, making it a delightful escape from the everyday hustle.
Pair your tea with their homemade baked goods or choose from a variety of hearty sandwiches.
Don’t miss out on their specialty items that change daily, promising a new taste with every visit.
12. Alley Cat Cafe
Alley Cat Cafe in Ithaca offers a unique blend of cozy ambiance and the joy of feline companionship.
It’s not just a cafe; it’s a sunny, eclectic spot where you can unwind with a cup of local roast coffee while being surrounded by playful, adoptable cats.
If you prefer your mocha on the sweeter side, mention it to the friendly staff; they’re known for their accommodating service.
Don’t miss out on the extensive tea selection, showcased beautifully on their tea wall.
13. MIX
MIX offers a unique blend of ambiance and culinary delights that make it a standout destination.
The vibrant atmosphere, complemented by live jazz and blues, provides the perfect backdrop for an afternoon escape.
The seasonal cocktails are crafted to perfection, pairing splendidly with the savory and sweet treats that define a quintessential high tea experience.
14. Gimme! Coffee
Coffee on West State St stands out in Ithaca, NY, for its artisanal approach to coffee.
It’s not just a cafe; it’s a haven for coffee aficionados seeking small-batch roasted beans and a sophisticated espresso experience.
The ambiance invites you to linger, whether for leisurely reading or focused study.
Unlike mainstream chains, their matcha is brewed from real leaves, not premixed powders.
For a complete experience, indulge in their freshly baked pastries that perfectly complement the robust coffee flavors.
15. Paris Baguette
The bakery exudes a charming Parisian vibe, perfect for a relaxing high tea experience.
With its freshly baked goods and cozy ambiance, it’s a delightful escape that promises a taste of France in every bite.
For something unique, try their inventive pastries that blend traditional flavors with a modern twist.
Pair your choice with their aromatic coffee or a soothing tea selection to complete the high tea experience.
16. The Watershed
The Watershed in Ithaca stands out for its cozy ambiance and diverse drink selection.
Whether you’re winding down after a day’s work or meeting friends before a show, this spot offers a welcoming atmosphere with drinks that cater to all preferences, from spirited cocktails to soothing teas.
While the snack options are on the pricier side, the cheese plate is a crowd favorite.
It’s the perfect accompaniment to their refreshing beverages, making your high tea experience both delightful and memorable.
17. Cafe Dewitt
Nestled in the heart of Ithaca, Cafe Dewitt offers a quaint escape for tea enthusiasts and brunch lovers alike.
Its warm ambiance and friendly service create the perfect backdrop for a leisurely high tea experience.
Indulge in their freshly made sandwiches, which pair delightfully with a pot of their aromatic tea.
Don’t miss out on their scones, served warm with a dollop of cream and jam, a true highlight of their high tea offering.
18. Dolce Delight
Dolce Delight offers a cozy retreat with its intimate setting and warm hospitality.
It’s the perfect spot for those seeking a unique high tea experience away from the bustle, where the charm of Ithaca truly shines through.
Indulge in their inventive sandwiches that elevate the ordinary to extraordinary with ingredients like feta, turkey sausage, and pesto.
Don’t miss out on their cheddar biscuits and the delightful kick of hot pepper jelly.
Pair your meal with their aromatic coffee or tea for a complete high tea delight.
19. Ithaca Bakery
Ithaca Bakery stands out as a beacon of culinary tradition, serving the community since 1910.
It’s not just a bakery; it’s a cozy retreat where the aroma of fresh artisan bread mingles with the scent of brewing coffee, creating an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxing high tea experience.
For the ultimate high tea, indulge in their flaky pastries and rich, international cheeses.
Pair a crisp salad or a hearty soup with one of their creative sandwiches for a satisfying meal.
Don’t forget to try their signature bagels and finish with a refreshing smoothie or a classic lemonade for a delightful culinary journey.
20. The Waterfront Cafe
Nestled by the serene waters, The Waterfront Cafe offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle of daily life.
Its cozy ambiance and picturesque views make it the perfect spot for a relaxing high tea experience.
Indulge in their freshly baked scones paired with clotted cream and a selection of homemade jams.
Don’t miss out on their assortment of delicate finger sandwiches and the signature Waterfront macarons that add a sweet touch to your afternoon delight.
20 Best High Tea in Ithaca, NY, United States for 2024
- Sacred Root Kava Lounge & Tea Bar
- Dream Tea & Poke
- Sweet N’ Salty
- U Tea Bubble Tea
- Botanist Coffeehouse
- Hound and Mare
- The Greenhouse Cafe & Cocktail Lounge
- Chatty Cathy Coffee and Juice Co.
- Taichi Bubble Tea – Ithaca
- Kung Fu Tea
- Coal Yard Cafe
- Alley Cat Cafe
- MIX
- Gimme! Coffee
- Paris Baguette
- The Watershed
- Cafe Dewitt
- Dolce Delight
- Ithaca Bakery
- The Waterfront Cafe
Many years ago, I, Henry Joseph, traded my corporate career for an apron and a bustling Tea Room in England’s Peak District. Now, in Mollymook, NSW, I continue to share my passion through AnniesHighTeas, offering personalized Grazing Boxes with local produce, inviting you to explore the world of high tea with me.
