Afternoon Tea Atlanta

As the weather starts to cool down, it’s a great excuse to warm up with a cup of tea. We have some great tea rooms in Atlanta, both individually owned and also those in large hotels that are a great place to spend time with a friend over tasty treats and a steaming cup.

I’ve taken tea at the Savoy in London, The Ritz on Park Avenue, Alice’s Tea Cup in New York, tiny tea shops in Seattle/Charleston/Houston, The Beverly Hills Hotel, and the grand dame of them all - The Empress Hotel in Victoria, BC. I consider myself to be pretty well-versed in the history and traditions of afternoon tea (considered to be started by the Duchess of Bedford) and now I want to share that passion with you.

Here are some of my favorite spots to take tea with friends and family here in the Atlanta area - be sure to make reservations before you go as these places book up fast!

- Woodstock. $14.50 full afternoon tea. Owned by the lovely Kim with exec chef Kristin, Tea Leaves and Thyme is by far my favorite tea room in the Atlanta area. For those ITP - it may seem like a hike, but it’s worth the effort. Three tiers of delicious food including scones, chicken salad sandwiches, tea sandwiches, desserts and more. The food, service and tea selection is the best you will see for the really low price. Set in a charming home in the Historic Woodstock area, they are also open for lunch.

- Historic Roswell. $20+ afternoon tea. Another charming house a couple blocks walk from the Historic Roswell area, this tea room eschews the lace and hats for a more modern aesthetic. Cast iron Japanese tea pots and an art gallery are featured in this tea room, as well as fantastic food. Great selection of loose leaf teas and they are also now open for dinner as well.

- Candler Park. = Tea for 2. Tea is served from 3:30-5pm everyday, reservations recommended. You will enjoy a pot of tea for 2, including milk, honey, lemon, sugar. Served with assorted cookies and mini cupcakes, 2 scones, jam, imported Devonshire clotted cream, and finger sandwiches. Dr. Bombay’s has recently expanded is now available for bridal/baby showers and other fun parties/events.

Want to go high-end? Major hotels in town also offer a luxurious version of afternoon tea here in Atlanta.

. $34+. Afternoon tea is served on Sat and Sun at 2:30pm and 3pm in The Lobby Lounge. Tea is served in the English tradition, with seasonally-inspired tea sandwiches, pastries and warm scones. Upgrade to a ‘Royal Tea’ which includes champagne for $43 and the cost $21 for children.