Nashville may be famous for its music scene, but it’s also home to a growing number of tea rooms and cafes that serve high tea with a Southern twist. Whether you’re in the mood for a refined, classic tea service or a laid-back tea experience, Nashville has options to match every vibe and budget. Let’s dive into some of the city’s best high tea spots, complete with cozy cafes, upscale tea rooms, and places to enjoy a good brew with friends.
High Tea Essentials: What to Expect
Before you head out, let’s break down what high tea usually involves. Typically, a high tea setup includes a selection of loose-leaf teas, small sandwiches, and desserts like scones or pastries. Some places go all out with elegant décor, while others focus on creating a relaxed, homey atmosphere. Here’s a look at different elements that make up a memorable high tea experience.
Types of Tea Offered
Most high tea places will have an array of teas—from classic black teas like Earl Grey to floral or herbal options. Some spots even source their tea from local or exotic places, adding a unique touch to the experience.
Food Pairings
High tea isn’t complete without food pairings like cucumber sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and mini desserts. Many Nashville spots add their own flair to these bites, offering Southern-inspired treats and seasonal goodies.
Best 7 High Tea Spots in Nashville, TN
Now, let’s get into some of the top-rated high tea destinations in Nashville. Each of these spots has its own unique atmosphere, menu, and features that make it special.
- The Café at Thistle Farms
- Troll House Cottage
- Blue Aster
- Nashville Tea Co.
- International Tea and Coffee Company
- The Tea Room
- The Spice & Tea Exchange of Nashville
1. The Café at Thistle Farms
Contact Details
Phone: (615) 953-6440
Website: thecafeatthistlefarms.org
Address: 5122 Charlotte Ave, Nashville, TN 37209, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
- Vibe: Cozy and volunteer-built, with a community feel
- Price: Moderate
- Tea Experience: This homey café offers a light breakfast, lunch, and a selection of teas perfect for a relaxed high tea experience. You can enjoy curbside pickup, delivery, or choose between indoor and outdoor seating.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible
This café is a lovely spot to unwind, especially for those who enjoy supporting a local cause, as Thistle Farms supports women survivors. The menu focuses on simple but delicious dishes, and their tea selection complements their cozy vibe.
2. Troll House Cottage
Contact Details
Phone: (615) 942-9125
Website: trollhousecottage.com
Address: 222 McGavock Pk, Nashville, TN 37214, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- 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: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
- Vibe: Quaint and charming, ideal for intimate tea gatherings
- Price: Inexpensive
- Tea Experience: With both indoor and outdoor seating, Troll House Cottage has an old-world charm that feels just right for high tea. They support curbside pickup and takeout for those who prefer tea at home.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible
This spot is perfect for those who enjoy a more affordable, casual high tea with the option of making a reservation. The ambiance feels like stepping into a storybook, making it a popular spot for tea enthusiasts.
3. Blue Aster
Contact Details
Phone: (615) 327-8005
Website: www.blueasternashville.com
Address: 1620 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Vibe: Modern and upscale
- Price: Moderate
- Tea Experience: With a sleek, sophisticated setting, Blue Aster offers a high tea experience with a touch of elegance. It’s perfect for special occasions and is available by reservation.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible
If you’re looking for an upscale high tea experience, Blue Aster is a top choice. The atmosphere is refined, making it great for both tourists and locals celebrating a special day.
4. Nashville Tea Co.
Contact Details
Phone: (931) 982-6083
Website: nashvilletea.com
Address: 101 N James Campbell Blvd Suite 5, Columbia, TN 38401, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
- Vibe: Casual and welcoming
- Price: Inexpensive
- Tea Experience: Known for its wide selection of teas, Nashville Tea Co. offers a casual high tea option. With curbside pickup and delivery, you can also bring the experience home.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible
For those who want to keep it budget-friendly, Nashville Tea Co. offers an extensive selection of teas and simple pairings for a laid-back high tea.
5. International Tea and Coffee Company
Contact Details
Phone: (615) 712-8837
Website: www.intlteaandcoffeeco.com
Address: 1100 Fatherland St #104, Nashville, TN 37206, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Vibe: Eclectic and inviting
- Price: Inexpensive
- Tea Experience: This spot offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy teas from around the world. Indoor and outdoor seating are available, making it a cozy spot year-round.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible
A favorite for tea enthusiasts, this café has a unique selection of global teas, making it an ideal place to sample exotic flavors in a comfortable setting.
6. The Tea Room
Contact Details
Phone: (615) 600-5551
Website: tearoomnash.com
Address: 1249 Martin St, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Saturday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Sunday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Vibe: Elegant and serene
- Price: Moderate
- Tea Experience: This tea room is a more traditional setup with reservations available for those looking to secure their spot. The ambiance is calm, making it a wonderful setting for enjoying a classic high tea.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible
For a classic high tea with an upscale touch, The Tea Room is a beautiful choice. They serve high-quality teas in an elegant environment, perfect for a peaceful afternoon.
7. The Spice & Tea Exchange of Nashville
Contact Details
Phone: (615) 649-8844
Website: www.spiceandtea.com
Address: 1802 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Vibe: Boutique and aromatic
- Tea Experience: This is more of a tea retail spot but offers a range of exotic teas for takeout. You can also pick up spices and other ingredients to recreate a high tea at home.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible
While this isn’t a sit-down café, it’s perfect for those who want to explore unique tea blends and maybe host their own high tea at home. The staff is knowledgeable and can help you choose teas based on your taste preferences.
Tips for Enjoying High Tea in Nashville
- Make a Reservation: For popular spots, especially on weekends, it’s a good idea to call ahead or book a table online.
- Dress Comfortably (or Fancy!): High tea is a fun excuse to dress up, but casual outfits are also welcome at most places.
- Try Something New: High tea is all about variety, so why not go for a tea blend you’ve never tried before?
- Plan to Linger: High tea is meant to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Plan to stay a while and soak up the atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do high tea spots in Nashville require reservations?
A: Not all places do, but it’s best to reserve a table for more upscale locations, especially on weekends.
Q: Are high tea spots in Nashville wheelchair-accessible?
A: Yes, most of the popular tea spots in Nashville are wheelchair-accessible. Always check with the venue if you have specific needs.
Q: Can I get takeout for high tea?
A: Many places offer takeout, so you can enjoy a high tea experience at home. Check with individual cafes for options.
Q: What is the price range for high tea in Nashville?
A: High tea prices vary. Casual spots are generally inexpensive, while more formal tea rooms tend to be moderately priced.
Q: Are there gluten-free or vegan options?
A: Some cafes offer dietary accommodations. It’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm if they can cater to specific needs.
Final Thoughts on Nashville’s High Tea Scene
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, high tea in Nashville is a delightful experience. From elegant tea rooms to laid-back cafes, you’ll find plenty of spots to sip, snack, and savor each moment. With options ranging from takeout to curbside pickup, high tea in Nashville is accessible for all. Enjoy the Southern charm, a cozy ambiance, and, of course, some fantastic tea!