High tea is more than just a meal; it's an experience filled with charm, elegance, and a dash of tradition. In Wichita, KS, you'll find several spots that elevate this time-honored ritual, blending delicious food with beautiful settings. This guide will explore the best places for high tea in Wichita, what to expect, and how to make the most of your visit.
What is High Tea?
High tea originated in England and is traditionally served in the late afternoon or early evening. Unlike afternoon tea, which is more about light snacks and tea, high tea is a more substantial meal, often including savory dishes alongside sweet treats. Expect an array of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of pastries—all served with a pot of freshly brewed tea.
Why Experience High Tea?
High tea is perfect for various occasions: a birthday celebration, a catch-up with friends, or even a romantic date. It offers a chance to slow down, enjoy great conversation, and savor delightful treats. Plus, the atmosphere of a tea room adds an element of charm that you won’t find in a typical café.
Top 10 Places for High Tea in Wichita
- The French Tearoom
- Leaf Teahouse Cafe
- HTeaO - Wichita
- Happy Teahouse
- Joy Tea
- The Spice Merchant & Co
- FENG CHA Wichita Boba tea
- Aroma Coffeehouse
- Paranormal.Cafe
- Leaf Teahouse West Central
1. The French Tearoom
Contact Details
Phone: (316) 648-8079
Website: www.thefrenchtearoom.com
Address: 3210 Victor Pl, Wichita, KS 67208, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Located at 3210 Victor Pl, The French Tearoom is a lovely spot that captures the essence of a Parisian café. With both indoor and outdoor seating options, you can enjoy your high tea in a cozy, intimate setting. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when this place fills up quickly.
- Highlights: Elegant decor, a diverse tea selection, and a delicious variety of pastries and sandwiches.
2. Leaf Teahouse Cafe
Contact Details
Phone: (316) 308-7637
Website: www.leafteahousecafe.com
Address: 1912 E Pawnee St, Wichita, KS 67211, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
If you're looking for a more casual vibe, check out Leaf Teahouse Cafe at 1912 E Pawnee St. This inexpensive gem offers takeout options and has wheelchair-accessible entrances, making it an inclusive choice for everyone.
- Highlights: A relaxed atmosphere, a variety of teas, and tasty treats perfect for high tea.
3. HTeaO - Wichita
Contact Details
Phone: (316) 618-9709
Website: hteao.com
Address: 1280 N Tyler Rd, Wichita, KS 67212, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
At HTeaO on 1280 N Tyler Rd, you’ll find a welcoming spot known for its refreshing tea selections. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, with delivery and takeout available for those on the go.
- Highlights: Inexpensive prices, a vibrant atmosphere, and a great selection of flavored teas.
4. Happy Teahouse
Contact Details
Phone: (316) 393-1110
Website: happyteahouseks.com
Address: 5761 E Central Ave, Wichita, KS 67208, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
Happy Teahouse at 5761 E Central Ave combines the joy of tea with a variety of food options. They offer curbside pickup and delivery, so you can enjoy high tea from the comfort of your home.
- Highlights: A wide range of teas, quick service, and delicious scones.
5. Joy Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (316) 260-9065
Website: joyteausa.com
Address: 11414 E Central Ave #100, Wichita, KS 67206, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 2:00 – 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 – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Joy Tea, located at 11414 E Central Ave, is another fantastic option. This spot is perfect for those looking for an affordable high tea experience with a menu full of delightful treats.
- Highlights: Curbside pickup, a cozy environment, and an array of tea flavors.
6. The Spice Merchant & Co
Contact Details
Phone: (316) 263-4121
Website: www.spicemerchant.com
Address: 1300 E Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67214, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
For a unique twist, The Spice Merchant & Co at 1300 E Douglas Ave offers a casual coffee roastery vibe along with their tea offerings. This place is a bit more moderate in price but is known for its excellent espresso drinks and specialty food items.
- Highlights: A cozy atmosphere, quality teas, and a mix of savory and sweet snacks.
7. FENG CHA Wichita Boba tea
Contact Details
Phone: (316) 977-9994
Website: links.doordash.com
Address: 8007 E Kellogg Dr #18B, Wichita, KS 67207, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
If you're in the mood for something a bit different, head to FENG CHA located at 8007 E Kellogg Dr. They focus on boba tea but also have a variety of snacks and desserts that work well for a high tea experience.
- Highlights: A fun, modern atmosphere, and plenty of options for boba tea lovers.
8. Aroma Coffeehouse
Contact Details
Phone: (316) 219-8545
Website: aromacoffeehousewichita.com
Address: 7348 W 21st St Ste 110, Wichita, KS 67205, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
For those who love a cozy coffeehouse vibe, Aroma Coffeehouse at 7348 W 21st St offers both coffee and tea options. They provide curbside pickup and a welcoming environment for high tea.
- Highlights: A great selection of drinks and treats in a friendly atmosphere.
9. Paranormal.Cafe
Contact Details
Phone: (316) 210-4810
Website: www.facebook.com
Address: 500 S Topeka St Suite 300, Wichita, KS 67202, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Located at 500 S Topeka St, Paranormal.Cafe offers a quirky atmosphere that’s perfect for a unique high tea experience. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a fun spot to relax with friends.
- Highlights: Unique decor, a range of snacks, and friendly service.
10. Leaf Teahouse West Central
Contact Details
Phone: (316) 204-7161
Website: www.leafteahousecafe.com
Address: 9414 W Central Ave, Wichita, KS 67212, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Another branch of Leaf Teahouse, located at 9414 W Central Ave, also supports delivery and takeout. This location offers a similar cozy vibe and is perfect for enjoying high tea.
- Highlights: Consistent quality across locations and a diverse menu.
Tips for Enjoying High Tea
- Make Reservations: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Make sure to book ahead to secure your spot.
- Dress the Part: While there’s no strict dress code, dressing up a bit can enhance the experience and make it feel special.
- Explore the Menu: Don’t hesitate to try something new! Many tea rooms offer unique tea blends and creative dishes you might not find elsewhere.
- Pairing Tea with Food: Ask your server for recommendations on which teas pair best with the food you order. It can elevate your experience significantly.
FAQs About High Tea in Wichita
What is typically served during high tea?
High tea usually includes a variety of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, pastries, and an assortment of teas.
How long does a high tea experience last?
Typically, a high tea service can last anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing you to relax and enjoy your meal.
Can I get high tea to go?
Many tea rooms offer takeout options. It’s best to check with the specific location beforehand.
Is high tea suitable for children?
Absolutely! Many places offer kid-friendly options, making it a fun outing for the whole family.
Do I need to dress formally for high tea?
While there's no strict dress code, dressing smart-casual can enhance the experience.
Conclusion
High tea in Wichita, KS, offers a delightful escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. With various locations to choose from, each with its unique charm and menu, you’re sure to find a perfect spot that suits your style. So gather your friends, make a reservation, and indulge in this lovely tradition that’s all about good food, great company, and a cozy atmosphere. Enjoy your tea!
