High tea is an experience that brings people together over delicious treats, flavorful teas, and a charming atmosphere. Hilton Head, SC, has embraced this timeless tradition, and whether you're looking for an upscale experience or a cozy cafe with a twist, there's something for everyone. Let’s dive into the best spots, what you can expect, and some pro tips to make your high tea adventure unforgettable.
What is High Tea?
High tea started as an evening meal for working-class people in England, with hearty options like meat, bread, and tea. Today, high tea typically refers to a sophisticated gathering featuring delicate sandwiches, pastries, and an assortment of teas, served mid-afternoon. High tea on Hilton Head often combines this traditional British concept with Southern charm, making it unique.
Top 10 Spots for High Tea in Hilton Head, SC
Here’s a roundup of the best places offering high tea or tea-related experiences around Hilton Head. Each offers something a bit different, from classic setups to casual tea lounges.
| Rank | Venue | Location | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Cottage Cafe, Bakery & Tea Room | 38 Calhoun St, Bluffton, SC | Cozy, indoor/outdoor, reservations, takeout | Moderate |
| 2 | The Spice & Tea Exchange | 1 N Forest Beach Dr, Hilton Head, SC | Specialty teas, spices, olive oils | Varies |
| 3 | Kung Fu Tea | 95 Mathews Dr, Hilton Head, SC | Bubble tea, delivery, indoor/outdoor | Inexpensive |
| 4 | The Carolina Room | 2 Grasslawn Ave, Hilton Head, SC | Upmarket American fare, reservations | High-end |
| 5 | The French Bakery | 28 Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head, SC | Fresh bakery, breakfast & lunch | Moderate |
| 6 | C'est Bon | 71 Lighthouse Rd, Hilton Head, SC | Coffee, pastries, indoor/outdoor | Moderate |
| 7 | Watusi Cafe | 71 Pope Ave, Hilton Head, SC | Casual, breakfast & lunch, patio | Moderate |
| 8 | Carolina Coffee & Crumbs | 101 Pope Ave, Hilton Head, SC | Coastal-chic, breakfast & lunch | Moderate |
| 9 | Palmetto Market | 23 Ocean Ln, Hilton Head, SC | Family-friendly, indoor/outdoor | Moderate |
| 10 | The Cafe | 1 Hotel Circle Extension, Hilton Head, SC | Cozy, moderate pricing | Moderate |
Exploring Each Venue in Detail
1. The Cottage Cafe, Bakery & Tea Room
Contact Details
Phone: (843) 757-0508
Website: www.thecottagebluffton.com
Address: 38 Calhoun St, Bluffton, SC 29910, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Ambience: Cozy, historic charm with indoor and outdoor seating.
Menu Highlights: Fresh pastries, scones, traditional tea sandwiches.
Reservations: Recommended, especially on weekends.
Nestled in a beautifully restored 1868 cottage in Bluffton, The Cottage Cafe offers a cozy, Southern-style high tea experience. With its charming decor and delicious selection of teas, it’s a perfect spot for those wanting a classic high tea. Their spread includes tea sandwiches, fresh scones, and baked goods that pair perfectly with a variety of premium teas.
2. The Spice & Tea Exchange of Hilton Head Island
Contact Details
Phone: (843) 715-3770
Website: www.spiceandtea.com
Address: 1 N Forest Beach Dr #A7, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, 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: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ambience: Casual, retail vibe with a huge variety of tea blends.
Menu Highlights: Exotic teas, olive oils, and spices.
Takeaway: Perfect spot to grab tea leaves for an at-home tea experience.
For tea enthusiasts looking to explore unique blends, The Spice & Tea Exchange is a must-visit. While they don’t serve high tea, you can pick up some rare teas to create your own experience at home. With exotic flavors and all the tea accessories you need, it’s like a candy store for tea lovers.
3. Kung Fu Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (843) 715-3061
Website: www.kungfutea.com
Address: 95 Mathews Dr Suite F4, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Ambience: Casual, fast-service spot with fun decor.
Menu Highlights: Bubble tea, slushes, cold and hot teas.
Perfect For: A refreshing tea-based treat with friends or family.
If you’re after something more modern, Kung Fu Tea has a fun take on tea with their bubble tea options. This spot is popular for cold teas and slushies, especially during Hilton Head's hot summer days. It’s a totally different twist on traditional tea, but you’ll find tons of flavor options.
4. The Carolina Room
Contact Details
Phone: (843) 681-4000
Website: westinhiltonhead.ipoolside.com
Address: 2 Grasslawn Ave, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
Ambience: Elegant and upscale, ideal for special occasions.
Menu Highlights: Locally inspired high tea options.
Reservations: Highly recommended.
Located in a beautiful hotel, The Carolina Room offers an upscale high tea experience with a Southern twist. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, this spot elevates traditional high tea with its luxurious setting and Southern-style menu items.
What to Expect from a High Tea Experience in Hilton Head
Hilton Head’s high tea offerings come with a delightful mix of Southern hospitality and traditional British elegance. Here are some things to expect:
- Variety of Teas: Most venues have classic black teas like Earl Grey and English Breakfast, along with unique blends from the South.
- Savory & Sweet: Expect an assortment of savory finger sandwiches, fresh pastries, and scones with jam and cream.
- Atmosphere: Venues range from cozy cafes to elegant, upscale restaurants, with indoor and outdoor seating to match the weather.
Choosing the Right Spot for Your Occasion
Hilton Head has high tea options for every type of gathering. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose:
- For Traditionalists: The Cottage Cafe or The Carolina Room provide a classic tea experience with a Southern touch.
- For Tea Adventurers: The Spice & Tea Exchange has exotic teas to take home.
- For Casual Gatherings: Kung Fu Tea or Watusi Cafe are great for a laid-back afternoon with friends.
- For an Upscale Experience: The Carolina Room offers a refined high tea perfect for anniversaries or special events.
FAQs about High Tea in Hilton Head
Q: Do I need to make reservations for high tea?
A: For places like The Cottage Cafe and The Carolina Room, reservations are recommended. Casual spots may not require them, but it’s best to call ahead.
Q: Are there gluten-free or vegan options available?
A: Some venues offer dietary options, but it's a good idea to check ahead with specific cafes to ensure they meet your needs.
Q: Is high tea kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely! High tea can be a fun experience for kids, especially at family-friendly spots like The Cottage Cafe. Some places even offer child-sized portions or kid-friendly teas.
Q: What should I wear to high tea?
A: You can go casual at most Hilton Head tea spots, but if you’re visiting an upscale place like The Carolina Room, business casual attire fits the vibe.
Q: Can I buy tea to take home?
A: Yes, venues like The Spice & Tea Exchange have a wide variety of teas available for purchase if you want to continue the experience at home.
Wrapping Up Your Hilton Head High Tea Adventure
Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Hilton Head’s high tea spots have you covered. From elegant, classic high tea setups to unique tea options like bubble tea, there’s a place for every tea lover. So, grab your friends, make a reservation, and enjoy a delightful high tea experience that’s both charming and unforgettable.
