The 12 Best Spots Across the Country For Afternoon Tea (2024)

Colorful, special occasion teas (think bridal, baby shower, prince and princess) are the specialty of the house at this charming southern inn, perched on the campus of the University of North Carolina. When the weather is warm, request Pastry Chef Sara Thomas’s exquisite baked goods on the lush, picturesque garden terrace.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina
destinationhotels.com

It’s tough to imagine a more opulent space than this storied room, kitted out with red leather banquettes and custom artwork, and gilded with plenty of gold. Fittingly, the afternoon tradition is equally over-the-top. In true Russian fashion, it’s complemented by assorted caviars on blinis and Cherry Varenya, a tea sweetener made from simple syrup-soaked cherries.

New York City
russiantearoomnyc.com

The experience at this gleaming skyscraper hotel in SOMA is so unique it even has its own name. The Art of Tea commences with the presentation of a wooden box filled with glass vials of tea to behold, sniff, and even touch. The pyramid-shaped tier of snacks rotates seasonally, but always features surprising items like walnut-topped carrot foam and duck confit quiche.

San Francisco, California
stregissanfrancisco.com

Draped in traditional English décor, Le Salon is where European luxury meets Southern comfort. A live harpist or pianist sets the tone for a refined, yet relaxed atmosphere for tea and a sumptuous spread served on Wedgewood China. Le Salon also offers specialty themed teas, like a strawberry one, and another to celebrate Mother’s Day.

New Orleans, Louisiana
windsorcourthotel.com

Even though the legendary hotel’s been serving up tea for over 100 years, The Plaza remains as crowd-pleasing as ever by sticking with British tradition. A pot of tea and three-tier stand of finger sandwiches, warm scones, and bite-sized desserts is accompanied by nearly faultless, ever gracious service. For little ones, there’s a popular Eloise-themed tea with pink lemonade and cotton candy.

New York City
theplazany.com

The tradition – enjoyed at the historic downtown hotel for over a century – is made even sweeter with the hotel’s rooftop bee hives. (One is even named “Buzzingham Palace.”) Locals especially look forward to January, when the decades-old tradition of parading the rose-adorned Grand Champion Steer (from the National Western Stock Show) through the lobby takes place.

Denver, Colorado
brownpalace.com

Created especially for Langham Hotels, the delicate Wedgwood china presented during afternoon tea here is graced with pink roses. Because the extensive selection can easily overwhelm, ask the certified tea sommelier for some guidance. And to ensure the first sip isas balanced as the last, your pot of tea arrives with a steeping timer.

Boston, Massachusetts
langhamhotels.com

The British tradition takes a Russian spin under beloved chef Vitaly Paley’s care. To pay culinary homage to his roots, he turns out a whimsical menu, including mushroom-stuffed Piroshki (fresh potato bread), Lekach (honey cake), and Buterbrodi (open-faced rye sandwiches) – all of which are paired with your choice of Smith Teamakers tea.

Portland, Oregon
headwaterspdx.com

Slip away from the fray of The Strip, and up to the sky-high tea lounge at this elegant hotel. The setting is calm and serene, and a welcome antidote to the city’s bright lights and endless crowds. Linger over a properly-brewed pot of tea from Tea Leaves, along with sweet treats by celebrated pastry chef Philippe Angibeau, whom even makes all the marmalades and jams.

Las Vegas, Nevada
mandarinoriental.com

Sip and nibble your way on through local history at The Polo Lounge, the hotel’s iconic restaurant and beloved Hollywood power spot. Whether you’re seated in the dining room or outdoors in the lushly appointed terrace, you’re guaranteed some gripping celebrity watching.

Beverly Hills, California
dorchestercollection.com

No spot in the nation’s capitol takes the tea drinking more seriously than here. At the sophisticated hotel’s Tea Cellar, nearly 40 rare, hard-to-find teas sourced from all over the world are carefully stored and aged. During service, they’re presented with assorted sweets and savories crafted by the culinary team from Blue Duck Tavern, the hotel’s renowned restaurant.

Washington, D.C.
washingtondc.park.hyatt.com

Princess Diana, Queen Elizabeth, and the Empress of Japan have all famously partaken in the long-standing tradition at the glamorous Palm Court. Today, the space continues to lure both locals and tourists alike with Palais des Thes teas from France, refined bites, and gentle service. Thoughtfully, the Palm Court offers gluten-free vegetarian options as well.

Chicago, Illinois
thedrakehotel.com