High tea is a time-honored tradition that has captivated people around the world with its elegance, refinement, and delectable treats. It is a delightful experience that combines the pleasure of sipping tea with the indulgence of enjoying a variety of sweet and savory delicacies. High tea is not just a meal, but an art form that celebrates the beauty of tea culture and the joy of gathering with loved ones.
Historically, high tea originated in Britain during the 19th century. It was initially a working-class meal served in the late afternoon or early evening, consisting of hearty dishes such as meat pies, bread, and cheese. Over time, high tea evolved into a more sophisticated affair, with the upper classes adopting it as a social event to showcase their wealth and refinement.
Today, high tea has gained popularity around the world, transcending cultural boundaries and captivating people from all walks of life. From London to Paris, New York to Sydney, and beyond, tea rooms have become havens for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply to indulge in a moment of tranquility, high tea offers a unique experience that combines tradition, elegance, and culinary excellence.
Key Takeaways
- High tea is a global tradition that combines elegance, refinement, and exquisite taste.
- London’s tea rooms are renowned for their long-standing tradition of high tea and sophisticated atmosphere.
- Parisian tea salons offer a unique blend of artistic flair and refined taste, making them a must-visit for tea lovers.
- Asia’s tea rooms showcase a rich heritage and culture, with a focus on tea ceremonies and local ingredients.
- New York’s high tea scene combines classic and contemporary elements, offering a unique and modern take on the tradition.
London’s Best Tea Rooms: A Tradition of Elegance and Refinement
London is renowned for its tea rooms, which embody the city’s rich history and tradition of elegance. These establishments offer an exquisite selection of teas from around the world, accompanied by an array of delectable pastries, sandwiches, and scones.
One of London’s most iconic tea rooms is The Ritz London. Located in the heart of Mayfair, The Ritz offers a truly luxurious high tea experience. Guests are treated to an opulent setting adorned with chandeliers and gold leaf decorations, while enjoying a selection of over 18 different types of loose-leaf tea, including the exclusive Ritz Royal Blend.
Another esteemed tea room in London is Fortnum & Mason. Established in 1707, Fortnum & Mason is a purveyor of fine foods and teas, and its tea room is a testament to its commitment to quality. Guests can choose from a wide range of teas, including rare and exotic blends, while indulging in freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches, and delicate pastries.
The Savoy is another iconic tea room in London that has been serving high tea since 1889. Located on the Strand, The Savoy offers a quintessentially British experience with its elegant setting and impeccable service. Guests can enjoy a selection of over 30 teas, including The Savoy’s own signature blend, while savoring an assortment of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and exquisite pastries.
Claridge’s is another tea room that exudes elegance and sophistication. Situated in the heart of Mayfair, Claridge’s has been serving high tea since the 1860s. Guests can choose from a selection of rare and exclusive teas, while indulging in an array of delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones.
For those seeking a more contemporary high tea experience, Sketch offers a unique blend of art and gastronomy. Located in Mayfair, Sketch is known for its avant-garde design and artistic flair. Guests can enjoy an eclectic selection of teas, accompanied by an array of creative and visually stunning pastries.
Parisian Tea Salons: Where Artistic Flair Meets Exquisite Taste
Paris is renowned for its vibrant café culture and its exquisite tea salons are no exception. These establishments combine artistic flair with exquisite taste to create a truly memorable high tea experience.
One of the most famous tea salons in Paris is Angelina. Located on the Rue de Rivoli, Angelina has been serving high tea since 1903. The salon is known for its Belle Époque decor and its signature hot chocolate, which is a must-try for any chocolate lover. Guests can also enjoy a selection of teas, accompanied by an assortment of pastries and sandwiches.
Ladurée is another iconic tea salon in Paris that has been delighting guests since 1862. Known for its macarons, Ladurée offers a wide range of teas, including exclusive blends created in collaboration with renowned tea houses. Guests can indulge in an array of delicate pastries, sandwiches, and of course, Ladurée’s famous macarons.
Mariage Frères is a tea salon that has been at the forefront of the tea industry since 1854. Located in the Marais district, Mariage Frères offers an extensive selection of teas from around the world, including rare and exclusive blends. Guests can enjoy their tea with a variety of sweet and savory treats, all made with the finest ingredients.
Le Bristol Paris is another tea salon that combines elegance with culinary excellence. Situated on the prestigious Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Le Bristol offers a refined setting and impeccable service. Guests can choose from a selection of over 100 teas, while savoring an assortment of pastries, finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones.
Hôtel de Crillon is a historic hotel that houses one of Paris’ most elegant tea salons. Located on Place de la Concorde, Hôtel de Crillon offers a luxurious setting and panoramic views of the city. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas from around the world, accompanied by an array of sweet and savory delicacies.
The Best Tea Rooms in Asia: A Journey Through Tea Culture and Heritage
| Tea Room | Location | Specialty Tea | Price Range | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tea House at The Forbidden City | Beijing, China | Dragon Well Green Tea | 4.5/5 | |
| Tea Chapter | Singapore | Pu-erh Tea | 4.8/5 | |
| Uji Tea Room Tokichi | Kyoto, Japan | Matcha Green Tea | 4.7/5 | |
| Tea House at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Teh Tarik | 4.3/5 | |
| Tea House at The Peninsula Hong Kong | Hong Kong | Oolong Tea | 4.6/5 |
Asia is home to a rich tea culture and some of the world’s most exquisite tea rooms. These establishments offer a unique blend of tradition, heritage, and culinary excellence, providing guests with an unforgettable high tea experience.
The Peninsula Hong Kong is one of Asia’s most iconic tea rooms. Located in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, The Peninsula has been serving high tea since 1928. Guests can enjoy a selection of over 20 teas, including rare and exclusive blends, while savoring an array of delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones.
The Fullerton Hotel Singapore is another esteemed tea room that showcases the city-state’s rich heritage. Housed in a beautifully restored colonial building, The Fullerton Hotel offers a luxurious setting and panoramic views of the Singapore River. Guests can choose from a selection of teas, including local blends inspired by Singapore’s diverse culinary traditions, while indulging in an assortment of sweet and savory treats.
The Okura Prestige Bangkok is a tea room that combines Japanese elegance with Thai hospitality. Located in the heart of Bangkok, The Okura Prestige offers a serene setting and impeccable service. Guests can enjoy a selection of Japanese teas, accompanied by an array of delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and traditional Japanese sweets.
The St. Regis Osaka is another tea room that showcases the best of Japanese hospitality. Situated in the vibrant city of Osaka, The St. Regis offers a refined setting and panoramic views of the city skyline. Guests can choose from a selection of teas, including rare and exclusive blends, while savoring an assortment of sweet and savory delicacies.
The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai is a tea room that celebrates India’s rich tea heritage. Located in the heart of Mumbai, The Taj Mahal Palace offers a luxurious setting and breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Guests can enjoy a selection of Indian teas, accompanied by an array of traditional Indian sweets, savory snacks, and sandwiches.
New York’s High Tea Scene: Where Classic Meets Contemporary
New York City is known for its vibrant culinary scene, and its high tea offerings are no exception. From classic establishments to contemporary tea rooms, New York offers a diverse range of options for tea enthusiasts.
The Plaza Hotel is one of New York’s most iconic tea rooms. Located on Fifth Avenue, The Plaza has been serving high tea since 1907. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, including rare and exclusive blends, while indulging in an assortment of delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones.
The Russian Tea Room is another esteemed tea room in New York City. Located in Midtown Manhattan, The Russian Tea Room offers a unique blend of Russian and American cuisine. Guests can choose from a selection of teas, including Russian blends, while savoring an array of traditional Russian dishes and pastries.
The Mandarin Oriental is a tea room that combines elegance with breathtaking views of Central Park. Situated on Columbus Circle, The Mandarin Oriental offers a luxurious setting and impeccable service. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, accompanied by an array of sweet and savory treats inspired by Asian and Western culinary traditions.
The Pierre is another tea room that exudes elegance and sophistication. Located on Fifth Avenue, The Pierre offers a refined setting and panoramic views of Central Park. Guests can choose from a selection of teas, including rare and exclusive blends, while indulging in an assortment of delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones.
The Lowell is a tea room that offers a more intimate and exclusive high tea experience. Situated on the Upper East Side, The Lowell provides a serene setting and personalized service. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, accompanied by an array of sweet and savory delicacies made with the finest ingredients.
Australia’s Top Tea Rooms: A Blend of Modernity and Tradition
Australia’s tea rooms offer a unique blend of modernity and tradition, showcasing the country’s diverse culinary landscape and its love for tea. From luxurious hotels to charming tea houses, Australia offers a range of options for tea enthusiasts.
The Langham, Sydney is one of Australia’s most iconic tea rooms. Located in the heart of Sydney, The Langham offers a luxurious setting and panoramic views of the city skyline. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, including rare and exclusive blends, while savoring an assortment of delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones.
The Tea Room QVB is another esteemed tea room in Sydney that combines elegance with history. Housed in the Queen Victoria Building, The Tea Room offers a refined setting and impeccable service. Guests can choose from a selection of teas, accompanied by an array of sweet and savory treats inspired by Australian and European culinary traditions.
The Windsor Hotel is a tea room that exudes old-world charm and sophistication. Located in Melbourne, The Windsor Hotel offers a timeless setting and personalized service. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, accompanied by an array of delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones.
The Park Hyatt Melbourne is another tea room that showcases the best of Australian hospitality. Situated on Parliament Square, The Park Hyatt offers a serene setting and panoramic views of the city skyline. Guests can choose from a selection of teas, including rare and exclusive blends, while indulging in an assortment of sweet and savory delicacies.
The Adelphi Hotel is a tea room that offers a more contemporary high tea experience. Located in Melbourne’s vibrant Flinders Lane district, The Adelphi Hotel provides a modern setting and innovative cuisine. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, accompanied by an array of creative and visually stunning pastries.
The Best Tea Rooms in the Middle East: A Celebration of Exotic Flavors and Aromas
The Middle East is known for its rich culinary traditions and its love for tea. The region’s tea rooms offer a unique blend of exotic flavors and aromas, providing guests with a truly memorable high tea experience.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah in Dubai is one of the most iconic tea rooms in the Middle East. Located on its own island, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah offers a luxurious setting and breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, including rare and exclusive blends, while savoring an assortment of sweet and savory delicacies inspired by Middle Eastern and international cuisine.
The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain is another esteemed tea room in the Middle East. Situated on the shores of Manama, The Ritz-Carlton offers a refined setting and personalized service. Guests can choose from a selection of teas, accompanied by an array of traditional Middle Eastern sweets, savory snacks, and sandwiches.
The Four Seasons Hotel, Doha is a tea room that combines elegance with panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. Located in the heart of Doha, The Four Seasons offers a luxurious setting and impeccable service. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, accompanied by an array of sweet and savory treats inspired by Middle Eastern and international culinary traditions.
The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is another tea room that showcases the best of Emirati hospitality. Situated on the Corniche, The St. Regis offers a serene setting and panoramic views of the city skyline. Guests can choose from a selection of teas, including rare and exclusive blends, while indulging in an assortment of sweet and savory delicacies.
The Al Bustan Palace in Muscat is a tea room that celebrates Oman’s rich tea heritage. Located on the shores of the Arabian Sea, The Al Bustan Palace offers a luxurious setting and breathtaking views of the coastline. Guests can enjoy a selection of Omani teas, accompanied by an array of traditional Omani sweets, savory snacks, and sandwiches.
The Rise of High Tea in Africa: A Showcase of Local Ingredients and Creativity
Africa is a continent rich in culinary traditions and its tea rooms offer a showcase of local ingredients and creativity. From luxurious hotels to boutique lodges, Africa offers a range of options for tea enthusiasts.
The Oyster Box Hotel in South Africa is one of Africa’s most iconic tea rooms. Located in Umhlanga, The Oyster Box offers a luxurious setting and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, including local blends inspired by South Africa’s diverse culinary traditions, while savoring an assortment of sweet and savory treats.
The Mount Nelson Hotel in South Africa is another esteemed tea room that combines elegance with history. Located in Cape Town, The Mount Nelson Hotel offers a refined setting and impeccable service. Guests can choose from a selection of teas, accompanied by an array of sweet and savory delicacies inspired by South African and European culinary traditions.
The Royal Livingstone Hotel in Zambia is a tea room that exudes old-world charm and sophistication. Located on the banks of the Zambezi River, The Royal Livingstone Hotel offers a timeless setting and personalized service. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, accompanied by an array of delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones.
The Serena Hotel in Kenya is another tea room that showcases the best of Kenyan tea culture. Located in the heart of Nairobi, the Serena Hotel offers a luxurious and elegant setting for tea enthusiasts to indulge in the finest teas from Kenya. The tea room is known for its extensive selection of teas, including black, green, and herbal varieties, all sourced from local tea estates. Guests can enjoy their tea accompanied by a delectable assortment of pastries, sandwiches, and scones, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The Serena Hotel’s tea room also provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind while savoring the flavors of Kenyan tea.
Looking to enhance your high tea experience? Check out this article on “The Best Teas for a Morning Head Start” from My Tea Shack. Discover a variety of teas that can give you the perfect boost to kickstart your day. Whether you prefer black tea, green tea, or herbal blends, this article has got you covered. So why not explore the world of morning teas and elevate your high tea experience? Read more
FAQs
What is high tea?
High tea is a British tradition that involves drinking tea and eating a variety of sweet and savory foods in the late afternoon or early evening.
What is the difference between high tea and afternoon tea?
Afternoon tea is a lighter meal that typically includes tea, scones, and finger sandwiches. High tea, on the other hand, is a more substantial meal that includes tea, sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and hot dishes like quiche or soup.
What is typically served at a high tea?
High tea typically includes a variety of sweet and savory foods, such as sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, cakes, pastries, and hot dishes like quiche or soup.
What is the proper etiquette for a high tea?
Proper etiquette for a high tea includes dressing appropriately, using proper table manners, and waiting for the host or hostess to begin eating before starting yourself. It is also customary to pour tea for others before pouring for yourself.
What is the history of high tea?
High tea originated in the 19th century as a meal for the working class, who would have a substantial meal of tea, bread, butter, and cheese after a long day of work. Over time, high tea became a more formal affair and was adopted by the upper classes as a social event.