Formal afternoon tea is a custom that is more associated with Britain than the United States. However, there are still some amazing places to have a traditional afternoon tea in the US, too. This is one social gathering that has gained enough popularity to make its way into America’s finer hotels and tea gardens.
Below you’ll find a list of some of the best places for afternoon tea in the US. Whether you’re looking for the classic British afternoon tea or a more modern take on the affair, you’re sure to find a location below that will serve up an afternoon tea you’ll never forget.
So you’re not disappointed, I’d recommend always making a reservation beforehand at any of these afternoon tea venues in the USA.
Tea List
222. D Street
Davis, CA 95616
(530) 750-2700
The Tea List is a modern take on a traditional tea house with a beautiful outdoor seating area and a range of elegant and courteous staff. Along with high tea, afternoon tea, and Queen’s tea, this tea shop also takes on walk-ins and can make orders available for pickup.
Along with the classic homemade sandwiches and pastries served at this tea shop, guests can also enjoy treats such as raspberry tea or frozen lemonade. Small touches such as fresh-cut flowers on every table help set the sophisticated but comforting ambiance.
Davis is a super charming town. I went to school at the University of California there. Definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in this part of Northern California and fancy a modern afternoon tea.
Tea Lounge at the Waldorf Astoria
3752 Las Vegas Boulevard
Las Vegas, Nevada 98158
(702) 590-8888
The Tea Lounge on the twenty-third floor of the Waldorf Astoria in Las Vegas offers a floor-to-ceiling vaulted view of the Las Vegas Strip. If you’re looking to have tea as a high roller, this is definitely the place to do it.
The Tea Lounge offers a wide variety of food. The savory dishes include offerings such as porchetti sandwiches, turkey clubs, and egg gougère. For dessert, guests can sample delicate and unique dishes such as pear mousse, lemon macarons, and chocolate orange cake.
You might not think of afternoon tea on a trip to sin city, but what a better way to relax and regroup after a crazy day in the casinos, or out in the blazing hot Las Vegas weather, than a civilized few hours of afternoon tea?
The Palm Court at the Plaza Hotel
768 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10019
(212) 546-5300
Featuring an extensive tea selection and a plentiful spread of food, this hotel made famous by both the classic Eloise books and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York is the perfect spot for afternoon tea if you want to treat yourself like royalty. Attractions of the Palm Court at the Plaza Hotel include a fountain and live harp music paired with friendly and prompt service.
The historic hotel setting of this tea house makes it a relaxing break from the bustling streets of Manhattan. Whether you’re visiting New York City as a tourist or you’re just looking for a sophisticated place to splurge, The Palm Court is a gem hidden in the heart of the city.
The Tea Room Miami
12310 SW 224th Street
Miami, FL 33170
(305) 258-0044
If you’re looking for several options to choose from for your afternoon tea, Tea Room Miami has you covered. This tea room offers five different types of tea, including the following:
- Afternoon tea
- Vegetarian high tea
- High tea
- Royal tea
- Nursery tea
The quaint and beautiful setting of Cauley Square makes The Tea Room a great place to take a load off for the afternoon if you’re exploring in Miami, and the tea also offers basic vegan options with labels for guest convenience. The affordable prices of this tea room make it a good option for guests who are looking to stick to a budget, too.
It’s important to note that the Tea Room Miami only offers service with twenty-four-hour advance notice via their email reservation system, so no walk-in appointments are available. Make sure you schedule your afternoon tea here ahead of time to get access to this classy tea house.
An afternoon tea here would be a welcome respite from the hot and humid Florida weather.
The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus
150 Stockton Street
San Francisco, CA 94108
(415) 249-2720
Even though it cultivates a five-star atmosphere, the tea room at The Rotunda has fair prices and is very accepting of a more casual clientele. If you’re looking for an afternoon tea where you don’t have to get dressed in formal wear, this is the tea to attend.
Afternoon tea is served on level four of San Francisco’s classic department store, Neiman Marcus. There are usually two afternoon seatings Thursday – Saturday. You can make a reservation via Opentable here. Once inside Opentable, click on a seating time with the caption “Experiences” for the afternoon tea services.
Popular food options at The Rotunda include fresh-baked popovers with homemade strawberry butter and clotted cream for scones. Combined with an amazing view, the treats on offer at The Rotunda are among the best in San Francisco.
Check out this tea room at Christmas to see it decked out in splendid decor that will make the holiday seem truly magical. When my kids were small, we’d always include a stop at Neiman Marcus on our annual Christmas trek into the city. The giant Christmas tree in the lobby is a magical, glittering sight not to be missed.
Afternoon Tea in the US Is Worth the Trip
If you’ve ever wondered whether the afternoon teas on offer at high-class restaurants, tea houses, and hotels across the United States were as good as the ones offered in the UK, the answer is simple: it depends on where you go. If you choose an afternoon tea from the selection of American tea houses above, you’re sure to get your money’s worth. Back home, why not discover how to host a tea party of your own and invite your friends to join you?
Taking a trip across the pond? Check out these best places for afternoon tea in London for some great ideas!
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