When you're in Manchester, NH, and craving a delightful high tea experience, you’re in for a treat! This guide breaks down the best places to enjoy high tea, offering tips, recommendations, and answers to frequently asked questions. From classic tearooms to unique cafes, here's your go-to list for an elegant afternoon tea in Manchester.
What is High Tea?
High tea, or afternoon tea, is a charming British tradition that serves small bites and, of course, tea! It usually includes an assortment of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, pastries, and a selection of teas. High tea is more than a meal—it's a whole experience!
10 High Tea in Manchester, NH for 2024
- 27Teas
- Restoration Cafe
- The Foundry
- The Moka Pot at City Hall Pub
- Silver Fountain Inn & Tea Parlor
- The Green Beautiful
- Henghai Boba Tea
- The Cozy Tea Cart
- MIU
- The Bridge Cafe on Elm
1. 27Teas
Contact Details
Website: www.27teas.com
Address: 250 Commercial St #2001, Manchester, NH 03101, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
27Teas offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere perfect for sipping tea with friends or family. Known for a wide selection of teas and simple, tasty bites, it’s a great option for a casual high tea experience.
2. Restoration Cafe
Contact Details
Phone: (603) 518-7260
Website: restorationcafenh.com
Address: 235 Hanover St, Manchester, NH 03104, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- 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
Supports: Delivery, indoor/outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
Price: Moderate
Restoration Cafe combines a relaxed vibe with a moderately-priced menu. It’s perfect if you're looking to reserve a spot for a more intimate high tea. Enjoy fresh pastries and sandwiches while sipping some well-brewed tea!
3. The Foundry
Contact Details
Phone: (603) 836-1925
Website: www.foundrynh.com
Address: 50 Commercial St, Manchester, NH 03101, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Supports: Indoor/outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
Price: Expensive
The Foundry is a trendy, upscale restaurant with an industrial-chic style. Although not exclusively a tearoom, it’s a fantastic spot for a more sophisticated tea experience. You can enjoy creative martinis alongside classic tea selections, making it ideal for special occasions.
4. The Moka Pot at City Hall Pub
Contact Details
Phone: (603) 782-7881
Address: 889 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Supports: Indoor/outdoor seating, takeout
Price: Inexpensive
This spot offers a budget-friendly high tea experience in a laid-back setting. Perfect for grabbing tea and snacks on the go or sitting in for a casual tea time.
5. Silver Fountain Inn & Tea Parlor
Contact Details
Phone: (603) 750-4200
Website: www.silverfountain.com
Address: 103 Silver St, Dover, NH 03820, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
If you want a classic Victorian-style high tea, Silver Fountain Inn & Tea Parlor is your place! With its charming, antique decor and elegant tea service, it’s a favorite among tea lovers.
6. The Green Beautiful
Contact Details
Phone: (603) 606-1026
Website: www.greenbeautifulcafe.com
Address: 168 Wilson St, Manchester, NH 03103, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- 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: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Supports: Delivery, indoor/outdoor seating, takeout
Price: Moderate
The Green Beautiful is a lovely cafe focusing on sustainable, organic ingredients. This is a great place if you’re looking for a healthy twist on traditional high tea options.
7. Henghai Boba Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (603) 219-6700
Website: tpgo.ca
Address: 1209 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
Supports: Indoor/outdoor seating, takeout
Price: Inexpensive
For fans of bubble tea, Henghai Boba Tea offers an inexpensive and unique take on high tea. Swap out classic teas for a fun boba option and enjoy a different kind of tea time.
8. The Cozy Tea Cart
Contact Details
Phone: (603) 249-9111
Website: www.thecozyteacart.com
Address: 104A Rte 13, Brookline, NH 03033, USA
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: Closed
- Supports: Curbside pickup, takeout
The Cozy Tea Cart in Brookline is a must-visit for tea purists. With its extensive tea list and curated selection of high tea treats, it’s an ideal spot for a peaceful tea escape.
9. MIU
Contact Details
Phone: (603) 606-8193
Website: miucafe.shop
Address: 1500 S Willow St #104, Manchester, NH 03103, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Supports: Curbside pickup, indoor/outdoor seating, takeout
Price: Inexpensive
This cozy, budget-friendly cafe offers a blend of high tea classics with a modern twist. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy tea without spending too much.
10. The Bridge Cafe on Elm
Contact Details
Phone: (603) 647-9991
Website: www.thebridgecafe.net
Address: 1117 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101, 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 – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Supports: Indoor/outdoor seating, takeout
Price: Inexpensive
The Bridge Cafe on Elm has a low-key vibe with plenty of light fare, making it a casual choice for high tea. Pair your tea with a fresh sandwich or a slice of cake, and you’re good to go.
What to Expect at High Tea
Expect a cozy, relaxed setting with small tables, fancy teapots, and light snacks. Some places might go all out with a three-tiered tray of sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Others offer a simple menu with just a few select treats. Generally, you'll have a choice of teas, from black to green to herbal. Don't forget to ask for cream, sugar, or honey to make it just right!
How to Choose the Right Spot for You
When picking a place for high tea, consider what you’re in the mood for:
- On a Budget? The Moka Pot, MIU Cafe, or The Bridge Cafe on Elm are wallet-friendly options.
- Want Something Upscale? Head to The Foundry for a chic setting or Silver Fountain Inn & Tea Parlor for a Victorian vibe.
- Looking for a Unique Experience? Henghai Boba Tea and The Green Beautiful add a fun twist to traditional tea time.
FAQs
What is the difference between high tea and afternoon tea?
High tea is often a heavier meal with meats, breads, and pastries, whereas afternoon tea focuses more on lighter snacks like finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats. But, in the U.S., "high tea" is commonly used to describe both.
Do I need a reservation?
For places like The Foundry and Restoration Cafe, making a reservation is recommended, especially if you're going with a group.
Are there gluten-free or vegan options?
Many cafes, like The Green Beautiful and Restoration Cafe, offer healthier options, which often include gluten-free and vegan choices. It’s always best to call ahead to confirm.
Can I bring kids to high tea?
Absolutely! Most cafes are family-friendly. High tea is a fun way to introduce kids to new foods and the fun ritual of tea time. Just check with the venue to make sure they have options suitable for younger palates.
Bottom Line
Whether you're a tea aficionado or just looking for a fun outing with friends, Manchester, NH has something for every tea lover. From the cozy vibes of 27Teas to the elegant charm of Silver Fountain Inn & Tea Parlor, there’s a high tea experience waiting for you. So go ahead, make it a tea-riffic day!
