When we think of tea time, our minds usually jump to England. However, the US is full of cozy tea shops and even formal tea rooms for high tea. If your perfect day involves sipping on afternoon tea, take a trip to one of these favorite tea places across the US.

If you’re looking for a casual spot…

Samovar, San Francisco, California

With four different locations in San Francisco, Samovar is committed to acting as a haven for guests looking to relax and connect to the present moment. The CEO and founder, Jesse Jacobs, started the shop when she realized that our hyper-connected society has made people stray from connecting with themselves. Visit this tea shop for a peaceful retreat.

Boulder Dushanbe Tea House, Boulder, Colorado

Boulder Dushanbe Tea House, a beautiful tea shop in Colorado, was built completely by hand in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Then, it was deconstructed and sent to Boulder for rebuilding as a gift. A sign of unity and international connectedness, this is the perfect place to sip tea and enjoy dim sum.

Cha-An, New York City, New York

This Japanese-style tea shop is decorated with wooden tables, tatami benches, washi-paper lamps, and floral décor. It offers Japanese matcha and senchas, along with international tea brands. They also specialize in Japanese desserts and serve hearty pieces of toast made with homemade bread.

Zhi Tea, Austin, Texas

Founded by self-proclaimed tea lovers, Zhi Tea offers 100 percent sustainable and fair-trade teas that are all handcrafted in Austin. Zhi Tea makes sure to support local non-profits that support sustainability. Visit this shop if you’re looking for house-blended tea in a comfortable, home-like environment.

The Green Teahouse, West Hartford, Connecticut

A brother-sister duo started The Green Teahouse and have been committed to serving premium loose leaf Chinese tea since. The shop offers matcha, fruit tea, green tea, and everything in between.

 

If it’s a special occasion perfect for high tea…

600 Main Bed and Breakfast and Victorian Tea Room, Toms River, New Jersey

This New Jersey tea spot is modeled after an 1800’s Victorian tea room. Owners Susan and John Notte purchased the mansion and renovated the space. Now, the tea room is complete with delicate tablecloths, antique china and tea pots, and a friendly staff to serve tea accompanied with salads, soups, and tea sandwiches to snack on.

 Palm Court, Chicago, Illinois

The Palm Court at Drake, a Hilton hotel, has been serving tea for about one hundred years. In fact, the Queen of England and Princess Diana have visited the tea room. Guests select one of seventeen tea blends along with a traditional three-tiered tea tray with finger sandwiches, homemade breads and scones, and lemon curds. The tea room also offers a specialty service for kids’ tea parties from 1-5pm.

The Williard InterContinental, Washington DC

The Williard InterContinental has been serving afternoon tea since the 1920’s. The hotel offers different types of afternoon tea to match occasions. The Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea is part of the hotel’s celebration of the National Cherry Blossom Festival during the spring. During this tea, the harp plays as guests enjoy Japanese savories and pastries. The Holiday Afternoon Tea, offered in December, is complete with festive teas and snacks. Afternoon Tea for Groups is offered all times of year to help guests celebrate the important events in their lives.

Dallas Arboretum , Dallas, Texas

You can make a day out of your visit to the tea room at the Dallas Arboretum because tea reservations include parking and admission to the main garden. You can even reserve a garden tea seasonally. Spend a day sipping your tea and admiring beautiful garden views.

 The Jefferson Hotel, Richmond, Virginia

The Jefferson Hotel of Richmond, Virginia hosts afternoon tea Friday through Sunday. Guests can indulge in sandwiches and teas seated next to Edward Valentine’s marble Thomas Jefferson statue. The hotel even offers a specific “Chocolate Lover’s Tea” for all the sweet-tooths out there.

Whether you’re looking to curl up with a cup of tea or want to celebrate a life event with a classic high tea, you can travel to one of these tea shops in the US and find exactly what you’re looking for.

 

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