If you're in Ontario and craving an elegant afternoon tea experience, you're in luck! High tea is more than just sipping tea; it's a delightful ritual that combines delicious treats, cozy atmospheres, and a touch of British tradition. From charming tearooms tucked away in the heart of the city to scenic locations offering breathtaking views, here are the best 10 high tea spots in Ontario that you simply can't miss.
Why High Tea? A Taste of Tradition
High tea is more than just a meal; it’s a time to relax and unwind, surrounded by finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and, of course, a pot of your favorite tea. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a relaxing afternoon, a high tea experience provides the perfect excuse to slow down, enjoy the finer things in life, and catch up with friends.
Top 10 High Tea Locations in Ontario
Here’s a look at the best 10 high tea spots in Ontario, each offering something unique for tea lovers and newbies alike.
- Abigails Tea House
- Queen of Hearts Tea House
- The Old Curiosity Tea Shop
- Tea At The White House
- RoyalTea on King
- The O’Connor House English Tea Room
- Blue Willow Tea Shop
- Tea Grannys & Friends Victorian Tea Experience
- The Tea Room
- The Lovely Teahouse
1. Abigails Tea House
Contact Details
Phone: (519) 448-3999
Website: www.abigailsteahouse.com
Address: Abigail's Tea House, 2 Main St S, St George, ON N0E 1N0, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Supports: Indoor or outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Abigail’s Tea House is the perfect spot for a relaxing tea experience. Whether you're sitting inside surrounded by vintage décor or enjoying the fresh air on their outdoor patio, you'll feel right at home. Their afternoon tea includes a variety of freshly baked scones and sandwiches, paired with a perfect cup of tea.
2. Queen of Hearts Tea House
Contact Details
Phone: (226) 647-8969
Website: www.queenofheartskitchener.com
Address: 1151 Victoria St N, Kitchener, ON N2B 3C8, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Supports: Delivery, indoor or outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
Price: Moderate
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
This charming tea house offers both indoor and outdoor seating, making it perfect for any weather. Known for its cozy vibe and delicious high tea menu, Queen of Hearts specializes in classic tea fare, with a few unique twists. It’s a great place to bring friends and family for a memorable afternoon.
3. The Old Curiosity Tea Shop
Contact Details
Phone: (905) 472-9927
Website: www.cuppa.ca
Address: 91 Main Street Markham N, Markham, ON L3P 1X7, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Supports: Indoor or outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
Price: Moderate
Step back in time at The Old Curiosity Tea Shop, where the atmosphere is as charming as the tea. Set in a Victorian-style building, this tearoom serves high tea on fine china, featuring traditional English fare like Welsh rarebit. It’s the perfect blend of history and flavor.
4. Tea At The White House
Contact Details
Phone: (905) 690-9987
Website: teaatthewhitehouse.com
Address: 35 Main St N #1, Waterdown, ON L0R 2H0, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Supports: Delivery, indoor or outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
Price: Moderate
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Nestled in a quaint heritage building, Tea At The White House offers a classic high tea experience. With an extensive tea menu and a selection of finger sandwiches, scones, and sweets, this spot provides the perfect environment for a relaxing afternoon. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
5. RoyalTea on King
Contact Details
Phone: (705) 245-4832
Website: www.royalteaonking.ca
Address: 256 King St, Midland, ON L4R 3M3, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Supports: Curbside pickup, delivery, indoor or outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
RoyalTea on King offers a royal experience with a modern twist. They feature an elegant menu of traditional high tea favorites, paired with a carefully curated selection of teas. Whether you’re enjoying the tea inside or outside, you’ll feel like royalty in this charming venue.
6. The O’Connor House English Tea Room
Contact Details
Phone: (613) 396-1888
Website: theoconnorhouse.com
Address: 369 Main St, Deseronto, ON K0K 1X0, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Supports: Indoor or outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
Price: Moderate
For a quaint and cozy tea experience, head to The O’Connor House. With a variety of delicious pastries and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s the ideal spot to sip tea and relax. The scones here are a local favorite, and the menu is full of traditional British tea fare.
7. Blue Willow Tea Shop
Contact Details
Phone: (705) 687-2597
Website: bluewillowteashop.ca
Address: 900 Bay St, Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1Z9, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Supports: Indoor or outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
Price: Moderate
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Located in the picturesque town of Gravenhurst, Blue Willow Tea Shop is a must-visit for high tea enthusiasts. The quaint setting, along with their delicious afternoon tea offerings, creates the perfect ambiance for tea lovers. House-made pastries and savory British fare are just some of the treats you can look forward to here.
8. Tea Grannys & Friends Victorian Tea Experience
Contact Details
Phone: (905) 983-5816
Website: www.teagrannysandfriends.com
Address: 5784 Newtonville Rd, Kendal, ON L0A 1E0, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Supports: Curbside pickup, delivery, indoor or outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
At Tea Grannys & Friends, you can enjoy a traditional Victorian-style tea experience that will transport you back in time. This charming location offers everything from classic tea sandwiches to decadent pastries. Whether you’re inside the cozy tearoom or enjoying the outdoors, it's a wonderful spot for a tea date or celebration.
9. The Tea Room
Contact Details
Phone: (905) 542-7674
Website: www.thetearoomstreetsville.ca
Address: 223 Queen St S, Mississauga, ON L5M 1L6, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Supports: Indoor or outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
Price: Moderate
The Tea Room in Mississauga offers an extensive selection of teas and light meals, all served in a charming, heritage location. Perfect for a casual yet elegant afternoon, this tearoom is ideal for those looking to enjoy their tea in a cozy, inviting space.
10. The Lovely Teahouse
Contact Details
Phone: (705) 333-3277
Website: www.thelovelyhouse.ca
Address: 2449 ON-11, Oro Station, ON L0L 2E0, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Supports: Curbside pickup, indoor or outdoor seating, takeout
For a truly charming tea experience, visit The Lovely Teahouse in Oro Station. With a relaxed atmosphere and delicious menu, this teahouse is a hidden gem for those looking for a peaceful tea break. Enjoy classic afternoon tea with a warm welcome.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abigails Tea House | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | Yes | - |
| Queen of Hearts Tea House | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| The Old Curiosity Tea Shop | Yes | Yes | No | Inaccessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Tea At The White House | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| RoyalTea on King | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | - |
| The O’Connor House English Tea Room | Yes | Yes | No | Inaccessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Blue Willow Tea Shop | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Tea Grannys & Friends Victorian Tea Experience | Yes | Yes | Yes | Inaccessible | Yes | - |
| The Tea Room | Yes | Yes | No | Inaccessible | Yes | Moderate |
| The Lovely Teahouse | Yes | Yes | No | - | - | - |
Key Features to Look for in a Great High Tea Experience
1. Atmosphere and Ambience
The right setting makes all the difference in your high tea experience. Whether it’s the old-world charm of a Victorian tearoom or the more modern elegance of a royal tea house, atmosphere is key. Look for places with cozy, inviting décor and plenty of character.
2. Tea Selection
A good high tea experience should offer a wide variety of teas, from classic Earl Grey to more exotic blends. Check to see if they have specialty teas or seasonal options.
3. Menu Options
High tea isn’t just about tea! Look for places with an extensive selection of light bites, including finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, and cakes. The variety of treats is essential for a well-rounded experience.
4. Service and Hospitality
A warm and welcoming staff can elevate your high tea experience. Look for places that offer excellent customer service and make you feel at home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is typically served at high tea?
High tea generally includes a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and small cakes or pastries. It’s all paired with a variety of teas.
Is high tea the same as afternoon tea?
While often used interchangeably, afternoon tea is usually lighter and is served later in the day. High tea, on the other hand, is a more substantial meal and is traditionally served in the evening.
Can I make a reservation for high tea?
Yes! Most of the top tearooms in Ontario accept reservations, especially for high tea services, which tend to be popular.
Are these tearooms wheelchair accessible?
Yes, many of the best high tea spots in Ontario are wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
Wrapping It Up: Where Will You Go?
Whether you're a seasoned tea lover or a newcomer to the world of high tea, Ontario offers a variety of fantastic spots to enjoy this British tradition. From quaint tearooms to elegant tea houses, there’s something for every taste and occasion. So, gather your friends, book a reservation, and indulge in the delightful tradition of high tea at one of these top spots.