If you're looking to enjoy a delightful afternoon, high tea is a perfect choice! Imagine sipping aromatic tea, munching on dainty sandwiches, and indulging in sweet pastries. In Syracuse, NY, there are some fantastic places where you can enjoy this charming experience. Let’s explore the best spots for high tea, what to expect, and how to make the most of your visit!
What is High Tea?
High tea isn’t just about sipping tea; it’s a delightful ritual that originated in the UK. Traditionally served in the late afternoon or early evening, it includes a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and sweet treats. In Syracuse, you can find various venues offering unique twists on this classic experience.
Top 10 High Tea Spots in Syracuse
- Hi Tea
- The Hive Cafe at Honey & Things
- U Tea
- Bambu Dessert Drinks
- Phoebe's Restaurant & Coffee Lounge
- Cake Bar
- Tous les Jours Syracuse
- Mist Tea Cafe
- Kung Fu Tea
- Luna Cat Cafe
1. Hi Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (315) 901-2990
Website: www.hiteasyracuse.com
Address: 113 Marshall St, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Price: Inexpensive
- Supports: Delivery, Indoor/Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Takeout
Hi Tea is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a cozy atmosphere without breaking the bank. With a charming vibe, you can enjoy a variety of teas along with light snacks. The wheelchair-accessible entrance makes it a great choice for everyone.
2. The Hive Cafe at Honey & Things
Contact Details
Phone: (315) 595-4483
Website: www.thehivecafetogo.net
Address: 226 Old Bridge St Suite A, East Syracuse, NY 13057, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
- Price: Moderate
- Supports: Curbside Pickup, Delivery, Indoor/Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Takeout
This cafe takes a creative spin on high tea, offering an eclectic menu and a lovely ambiance. Whether you’re inside or outside, it’s a great place to relax with friends or family.
3. U Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (315) 466-5388
Website: www.uteausa.com
Address: 3 Destiny USA Dr M203, Syracuse, NY 13204, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Supports: Delivery, Indoor/Outdoor Seating, Takeout
U Tea is known for its fun bubble tea options, but they also offer a delightful high tea experience. It’s a lively spot where you can enjoy trendy drinks while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
4. Bambu Dessert Drinks
Contact Details
Phone: (315) 802-2866
Website: www.skiplinow.com
Address: 4131 W Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13219, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Supports: Delivery, Indoor/Outdoor Seating, Takeout
If you have a sweet tooth, Bambu is the place to be! Their dessert drinks and delightful teas make for a tasty high tea experience. You can enjoy a comfy seat inside or outside while savoring every sip.
5. Phoebe's Restaurant & Coffee Lounge
Contact Details
Phone: (315) 475-5154
Website: www.phoebessyracuse.com
Address: 900 E Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13244, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 4:30 – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
- Price: Moderate
- Supports: Delivery, Indoor/Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Takeout
This American bistro has a charming vibe and serves up a seasonal menu that pairs perfectly with their high tea offerings. With a cozy coffee bar attached, you can enjoy both tea and coffee in one visit!
6. Cake Bar
Contact Details
Phone: (315) 299-4047
Website: www.cakebarsyr.com
Address: 252 W Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13202, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Supports: Curbside Pickup, Delivery, Indoor/Outdoor Seating, Takeout
At Cake Bar, high tea takes on a fun twist with delicious cakes and pastries. The inviting atmosphere is great for gathering with friends or a special occasion.
7. Tous les Jours Syracuse
Contact Details
Phone: (315) 449-0170
Website: tljus.com
Address: 2743 Erie Blvd E, Syracuse, NY 13224, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Price: Moderate
- Supports: Delivery, Takeout
This bakery-cafe combines traditional high tea with a French twist. Their pastries are delectable, and you can enjoy the casual setting while sipping your favorite tea.
8. Mist Tea Cafe
Contact Details
Phone: (315) 299-4030
Website: www.mistteacafe.com
Address: 727 S Crouse Ave, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 8:30 PM
- Sunday: 2:00 – 7:00 PM
- Price: Inexpensive
- Supports: Delivery, Indoor/Outdoor Seating, Takeout
Mist Tea Cafe is all about simplicity and comfort. With a range of affordable options, it’s a great spot for casual high tea with friends.
9. Kung Fu Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (315) 422-2250
Website: kungfutea.com
Address: 306 Hiawatha Blvd W J209, Syracuse, NY 13204, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 6:30 PM
- Price: Inexpensive
- Supports: Delivery, Indoor/Outdoor Seating, Takeout
Known for their bubble tea, Kung Fu Tea also offers a fun high tea experience. It’s a great place to mix traditional tea time with modern flavors.
10. Luna Cat Cafe
Contact Details
Phone: (315) 962-9298
Website: www.lunacatcafe.com
Address: 1001 E Fayette St, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 1:00 – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 1:00 – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM
- Price: Moderate
- Supports: Curbside Pickup, Delivery, Indoor/Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Takeout
For cat lovers, Luna Cat Cafe combines high tea with a cozy feline atmosphere. Sip your tea while enjoying the company of adorable cats—it's a purr-fect way to relax!
What to Expect at High Tea
When you go for high tea, expect a delightful experience. Most places will serve a variety of teas, from classic black to herbal blends. You’ll also find an array of snacks, including:
- Finger Sandwiches: These are small, crustless sandwiches filled with things like cucumber, egg salad, or smoked salmon.
- Scones: Light, fluffy scones served with clotted cream and jam are a must-have!
- Pastries and Cakes: Enjoy an assortment of sweet treats to round out your experience.
Most high tea experiences last about 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to savor each bite and sip.
Tips for a Great High Tea Experience
- Make Reservations: High tea spots can get busy, especially on weekends. It’s always a good idea to call ahead.
- Dress Up: While not always required, dressing nicely can enhance the experience. Think smart casual!
- Try Different Teas: Don’t be afraid to explore different flavors. Many places offer tea flights so you can taste a variety.
- Share: High tea is often best enjoyed with friends. Share dishes and experience the flavors together!
FAQs About High Tea in Syracuse
1. What is the price range for high tea in Syracuse?
Prices can vary widely. Expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $50 per person, depending on the venue and the menu.
2. Do I need to make a reservation for high tea?
It’s highly recommended to make a reservation, especially for popular spots.
3. Can I take my kids to high tea?
Absolutely! Many places are family-friendly and offer kid-friendly options.
4. Is high tea wheelchair accessible?
Most venues mentioned are wheelchair accessible, but it’s always best to check in advance.
5. What type of tea should I choose?
Go for what you enjoy! Black teas are classic, but herbal or green teas are also great options. Don’t hesitate to ask staff for recommendations.
Wrapping Up
High tea in Syracuse is more than just a meal; it’s a charming experience full of flavors and friendly vibes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, these local spots offer something unique. So grab your friends, pick a spot, and enjoy an afternoon of tea, treats, and togetherness!