13 Must-Try Afternoon Teas Around The World

The Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea at Sanderson Hotel, London

The Sanderson Hotel in London boasts an opulent courtyard adorned with seating surrounded by vibrant greenery, a flowing fountain, and stylish white decor, including the eye-catching chairs at the Long Bar, reminiscent of Billy Idol's "Eyes Without a Face." Nestled in the bustling Soho district, the Sanderson Hotel has created a whimsical setting akin to Tulgey Woods for its "Alice in Wonderland"-themed tea experience, aptly named the Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea. Fans of Lewis Carroll's classic tale will feel as if they've tumbled down the rabbit hole just in time for tea.

In this enchanting atmosphere, the fantastical world of Alice is brought to life in a delightful and effortless manner during this imaginative tea party. The Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea features an array of creatively designed finger foods, traditional scones, a selection of herbal and fresh loose-leaf teas, sparkling beverages, and a variety of tempting desserts inspired by this cherished English story. With vintage book menus, "drink me" potions, charming music boxes for the sugar, and "Alice in Wonderland" teaware, this is an afternoon tea that promises to be a very important date—so be sure not to be late.

For more information, visit: https://morgansoriginals.com/sanderson/ or call +44 20 7300 1400. The address is 50 Berners St, London W1T 3NG, United Kingdom.

The Victorian House's Brown Tea Bar, Munich

Another afternoon tea experience you won't want to miss is The Victorian House's Brown Tea Bar in Munich, Germany. This charming tea bar offers an extensive selection of teas from around the globe, complemented by delectable pastries and authentic clotted cream. While it may not provide a full-service afternoon tea, the opportunity to curate your own spread makes it a delightful experience.

With nearly 100 exceptional and varied brews to choose from, including Lady Grey, English Breakfast Tea, and Ayurveda, tea enthusiasts visiting Munich should definitely make a reservation—you won’t be disappointed. The Victorian House not only serves outstanding teas and finger foods but also pays tribute to the era when afternoon tea originated, featuring vintage and elegant décor, along with various events that enhance the tea experience. Guests can also order a complete tea experience to-go, along with essential teatime accessories.

For more information, visit: https://www.victorianhouse.de/

Phone: +49 89 25543839

Address: Türkenstraße 60, 80799 Munich, Germany

The High Tea at Sea on Sydney Harbour, Sydney

Visitors to Sydney, Australia, can enhance their getaway by reserving the unique High Tea at Sea experience provided by Captain Cook Cruises. While enjoying breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour and the iconic Opera House, guests can indulge in a selection of savory tartlets, seafood delicacies, scones with clotted cream and jam, and much more. Each guest is also welcomed with a glass of premium local sparkling wine at departure, along with unlimited fine teas and an array of delightful sweets.

Onboard, passengers can take in stunning sights of national parks, beaches, and landmarks such as the Harbour Bridge, all from the comfort of their air-conditioned seats or the ship's outdoor leisure decks. The cruise lasts just under two hours, departing from Circular Quay Wharf, and is available most days of the week with flexible boarding options. This makes it an ideal addition to any Sydney itinerary. Captain Cook Cruises also offers special high tea experiences for occasions like Mother's Day, anniversaries, bridal parties, birthdays, private events, and more.

For more information, visit: https://www.captaincook.com.au/dining-experiences/high-tea-sydney-cruise/

Harry Potter Tea at Q-pot Café, Tokyo

For food-loving travelers who are also fans of Harry Potter, a visit to the Q-pot Café in Tokyo, Japan, is a must. Here, patrons can savor a delightful tea experience infused with a touch of magic. The café features vibrant Hogwarts-themed napkins and an array of themed desserts, such as Sorting Hat cakes and pastries inspired by The Monster Book of Monsters, making this afternoon tea a charming blend of Potter lore, delicious brews, and tasty finger foods.

Attention to detail is paramount at this whimsical tea party, and Q-pot Café knows how crucial it is to be sorted into the right house. Each guest receives a Sorting Hat cake filled with either raspberry cream for Gryffindor, bright mango cream for Hufflepuff, green matcha mousse for Slytherin, or sky-blue blueberry cream for Ravenclaw. This house-themed color scheme extends to the additional drinks (excluding the teas) available at Q-pot Café. To top it all off, the café offers a wide selection of Harry Potter-themed candies and souvenirs to take home. So, if you're a Harry Potter aficionado, prepare to be in hog-heaven at this enchanting afternoon tea.

For more information, visit: https://www.q-pot.jp/shop/cafe/

Phone: +81 3 64471218

Address: 3 Chome-4-8 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo, Japan

The Russian Tea Room, Manhattan

If you find yourself in the Big Apple or visiting for a while, make sure to dash — not stroll — to The Russian Tea Room on West 57th Street. This establishment is a celebrated New York City landmark and has been a staple of the culinary scene for nearly a century. Established in 1927, it has welcomed countless notable figures over the years. The iconic restaurant offers a variety of tea experiences beyond the classic afternoon tea, including Royal, Children's, Gluten-Free, and Vegetarian options.

Each tea menu is thoughtfully designed, featuring only the finest delicacies. Indulge in caviar tastings, sip on champagne (or Prosecco and Hard Sparkling Cider), and choose from an impressive selection of premium teas like Formosa Oolong (Wulong), Robison Chai, and Mint Verbena. Depending on your selected menu, you can expect to enjoy an array of finger sandwiches with distinctive fillings such as curried chicken salad, kid-friendly cheese, artichoke, and smoked sturgeon. If you're seeking a memorable, upscale tea experience, make your way to The Russian Tea Room.

For more information, visit: https://russiantearoomnyc.com/ or call 1(212) 581-7100. The address is 150 West 57th Street, New York, New York.

Christmas Afternoon Tea, Ritz, London

Christmas afternoon tea is a delightful tradition that truly shines during the holiday season. One of the most exquisite experiences can be found at The Ritz Hotel in London, where this elegant event is a must-try. It's important to remember that reservations for this unforgettable outing should be made well in advance, as the British take their afternoon tea very seriously.

Held in The Palm Court, which is transformed into a stunning winter wonderland for the festivities, this renowned London tea experience ranks among the best in the world. For many locals, enjoying Christmas Afternoon Tea at The Ritz is a cherished dream. As a result, guests often arrive in their finest attire for the occasion. You might even witness a wedding proposal or two during your visit.

Additionally, extravagant gift-giving is a common sight at this special event. With a mini orchestra playing classical holiday tunes, the Ritz choir performing Christmas carols, and a selection of holiday-themed finger foods, gourmet teas, and exquisite champagne, this festive tea party is truly a sight to behold. Plus, there's always the chance of spotting nearby royalty joining in on the celebration. Don't miss out on this classic and enchanting experience!

For more information, visit: https://www.theritzlondon.com/dine-with-us/afternoon-tea or call +44 20 7300 2345. The Ritz is located at 150 Piccadilly, St. James's, London, United Kingdom.

Lunch & Llao Llao High Tea, Llao Llao Hotel, Patagonia

Indulge in a lavish and delectable lunch accompanied by high tea at the Llao Llao Hotel in Patagonia, Argentina. A standout feature of this tea experience is the awe-inspiring views of the expansive Patagonian landscape, showcasing breathtaking mountains, shimmering lakes like Lake Moreno, and vast stretches of lush forests as far as the eye can see. Guests can also enjoy front-row views of the hotel's vibrant garden, meticulously maintained grounds, golf course, and the stunning outdoor infinity pool during tea time.

This delightful tea gathering takes place in the Winter Garden restaurant at Llao Llao, offering an impressive array of savory finger sandwiches, various mini sliders, scones, delightful pastries, a salad bar, premium teas, champagne, and more. In addition to unlimited treats and a wide selection of teas, guests at Llao Llao High Tea can anticipate exceptional service while soaking in the picturesque surroundings. This tea experience is undoubtedly the perfect way to conclude an adventurous morning spent outdoors.

For more information, visit: https://llaollao.com/en/winter-garden-restaurant/ or call +54 294 444 5700.

Address: Av. Ezequiel Bustillo Km. 25 (R8401ALN) Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina.

The Willows Tearooms, Edinburgh & Glasgow

Food enthusiasts heading to Scotland should certainly include a delightful tea and scones experience on their itinerary. With numerous charming venues for a personal tea party, such as Maryculter House in Aberdeen and the Ness Walk Hotel in Inverness, selecting the perfect spot can be a challenge, especially when time is limited. While both of these teatime locations are renowned, The Willow Tearooms—located in Edinburgh and Glasgow—are an absolute must-visit.

Paying tribute to Scotland's celebrated architect and artist, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, The Willow Tearooms are brimming with locally sourced treats. From traditional Scottish dishes to classic afternoon delights, guests will leave this delightful tea experience beaming. The tearooms offer a variety of tea blends, including black, green, house, herbal, and specialty options. Notably, the Mackintosh (a signature blend of Ceylon, Darjeeling, Assam, and Kenyan teas) and the Jasmine Green (a fragrant green tea infused with Jasmine blossom) are both exquisite choices to try. Each Willow Tearoom boasts stunning décor and picturesque settings, with the Edinburgh location providing stunning views of the castle. Additionally, both venues offer a "Free From" Afternoon Tea, featuring a more relaxed menu with vegetarian and vegan options available all day, every day. Overall, enjoying afternoon tea at The Willow Tearooms, in any form, is a sophisticated and delightful experience.

For more information, visit: https://www.willowtearooms.co.uk/

Contact:

Edinburgh: +44 131 526 3933, 120A Princes St, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Glasgow: +44 141 204 5242, 97 Buchanan St, Glasgow, United Kingdom

Cream Tea at Café Smith & Son, Paris

Once a cherished WHSmith bookstore, Smith & Son has made several enhancements in recent years, including the addition of a stunning new tearoom. Located above this historic bookshop, it’s the perfect spot for Paris visitors seeking a midday meal paired with a delightful cup of tea. Just a stone's throw from the Tuileries Gardens, this café is far from the only place in the City of Lights that celebrates the joy of teatime. However, enjoying Cream Tea at Smith & Son truly feels like stepping into a quaint British lodge while in Paris.

Smith & Son not only features a variety of Parisian-style afternoon tea specials that offer even more delectable treats than their famous cream tea, which includes an array of macaroons, but the tearoom also boasts several inviting spaces for guests to enjoy their tea. On the second floor, a Shakespearean-inspired seating area with a cozy fireplace welcomes tea enthusiasts. Additionally, there’s a spacious back room adorned with modern décor and an elegant banquette. As for the traditional cream tea, it revolves around a lovely cup of tea, scones, jam, and, of course, the irresistibly rich clotted cream.

For more information, visit: https://www.smithandson.com/whsmith-cafe

Contact: +33 7 70 12 35 71

Address: 248 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France

Drawing Rooms – Afternoon Tea at The Merrion, Dublin

Regarded as an exceptional midday indulgence, afternoon tea at The Merrion Hotel in Dublin, Ireland, is truly in a league of its own. Before you become enamored with this artistic tea experience, you’ll likely be captivated by the grandeur of the Merrion Hotel itself. With its lush gardens, rich history, vintage decor, marble flooring, opulent chandeliers, and an elegant tearoom, every aspect here is simply delightful.

Once you’ve finished admiring the stunning surroundings, it’s time to savor one of the most inventive midday treats you’ve ever encountered. At this exquisite gathering, tea enthusiasts can enjoy a selection of classic brews, along with unique house blends like the Merrion Blend and White Melon teas. Notable specialties that you simply must try include the Irish Malt tea (a whiskey and cacao-infused tea) and the Matcha Magic (a mesmerizing tea cocktail that feels like pure enchantment). When it comes to scones, pastries, and finger sandwiches, each item is thoughtfully crafted, beautifully presented, often bursting with color, and guaranteed to delight.

For more information, visit: https://www.merrionhotel.com/dine/drawing-rooms-afternoon-tea/ or call +353 1 603 0600. Located at Upper Merrion Street, Dublin 2, Ireland.

Biltmore Traditional Afternoon Tea, Los Angeles

One of the premier destinations in the U.S., afternoon tea at The Biltmore Los Angeles has been a cherished tradition for over a century. Set in the stunning Rendezvous Court Café, this tea experience is truly unforgettable. With its historic decor and exquisite ambiance, this event calls for attire that goes beyond smart casual (though the dress code is semi-formal).

Guests at this afternoon tea may find themselves mingling with celebrities while enjoying a menu crafted by a renowned chef, featuring top-quality teas and a complimentary glass of champagne. This elegant tea gathering is available every Saturday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. However, due to its popularity, it is advisable to make reservations several Saturdays in advance, as it often sells out. A glamorous event filled with classic midday treats, teatime at The Biltmore Los Angeles is simply spectacular.

For more information, visit: https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/los-angeles/millennium-biltmore or call (213) 612-1562. The address is 506 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, California.

Afternoon Teas in the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab Hotel, Dubai

Nestled within the renowned Jumeirah Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai, the afternoon tea experience here is nothing short of legendary. While the hotel boasts a variety of options, one thing is certain: they excel at elevating teatime to an art form. With a selection of extravagant culinary delights, tea served with or without champagne, exquisite bites, and breathtaking beach views, the dining venues and lounges at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab each offer their own distinctive take on luxurious tea gatherings.

Among the delightful dining spaces are Al Fayrooz Lounge, Al Mandhard Lounge, and Al Samar Lounge, each presenting an impressive array of savory and sweet offerings for afternoon tea. While classic scones and finger foods feature prominently on most menus, you might be pleasantly surprised by the mini lobster rolls at Al Samar, the refreshing iced tea selections at Al Fayrooz, or the Wagyu Beef Coppa and Comté Cheese bites at Al Mandhard. If you have the chance to visit this iconic hotel, why not indulge in an afternoon tea tour while you're there?

For more information, visit: https://www.jumeirah.com/en/stay/dubai/burj-al-arab-jumeirah/dining or call +971 4 301 7777. Located in Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Teatime at Hotel d'Angleterre, Geneva

Last but certainly not least, a magnificent experience awaits afternoon tea enthusiasts at Hotel d'Angleterre in Geneva, Switzerland. With a variety of options including traditional, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free afternoon tea menus, as well as classic offerings, the Tuk Tuk Afternoon Tea bus tour, and elaborate parties for groups, Teatime at Hotel d'Angleterre could be just what you're looking for.

Guests can savor tea blends from around the globe and enjoy glasses of Ruinart Champagne while indulging in exquisite culinary creations, homemade jams, and rich clotted creams, among other delights. If you seek a royal experience while enjoying top-notch cuisine and sipping on premium hot beverages, make your way to Hotel d'Angleterre in Geneva for the ultimate afternoon tea experience. Ultimately, food lovers and tea aficionados have plenty of adventures ahead, no matter where their travels take them. Who knows, this might just inspire your very own international afternoon tea bucket list.

For more information, visit: https://dangleterrehotel.com/dining-and-drinks/afternoon-tea

Contact: +41 22 906 55 55

Address: Quai du Mont-Blanc 17, 1201 Genève, Switzerland