Though the concept of tea itself dates back to ancient China, and tea service was enjoyed by King Charles II in the 1600s, it wasn’t until 1840 when England’s Duchess Anna of Bedford got a hankering for a late-day sip and snack that formal high tea became a social event in popular culture.
Given that the weather has finally cooled, there is no better time to indulge in one of our best culinary imports from Britain.
For those who want a traditional high tea service, look no further than the English Rose Tea Room. Situated in the heart of beautiful Carefree, English Rose has developed a reputation for providing an authentic experience, thanks British native Jo Gemmill, who in addition to owning and operating the tearoom is also a certified etiquette instructor. From a simple scone with Devon Cream to The Duchess of Bedford’s Formal Afternoon Tea, there is something for every discerning tea lover’s palate. English Rose boasts more than 50 loose leaf teas from which to choose, and the formal tea service includes three courses—tea sandwiches with perfect chicken salad, fresh cucumbers, rich cream cheese and more, as well as scones and a three-tier tray of petit-fours and other mini desserts—plus a pot of tea for each guest. Beyond the epicurean experience, Gemmill has gone to great lengths to transport diners to her home country. Her attention to detail is apparent in the furnishings and décor, and extends to the outside dining patio, which offers a lovely garden setting. Sumptuous fabrics, crystal chandeliers, and English bone china provide an elegant and unforgettable experience. CarefreeTea.com
In recent months, the Wrigley Mansion also re-launched its similarly traditional homage to the classic high tea. Available on Wednesdays and Thursdays, with seatings at 1:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. in the stunning Geordie's restaurant, guests can enjoy a relaxing and luxurious experience with a selection of exquisite teas from Dammann Frères and delicacies of house-made finger sandwiches, scones with decadent Devonshire cream and lemon curd, and miniature desserts. The local history is as rich here as the tea service, so sip it all in. Notably, the tea service itself honors aficionado Ada Wrigley, for whom Wrigley Gum magnate William Wrigley, Jr. initially built the mansion for as a gift 100 years ago. WrigleyMansion.com
The Phoenician also has a rich history in observing afternoon tea. For more than 25 years, in fact, the AAA Five Diamond resort has relished in providing the ritual while enveloped in a contemporary setting. Held for years just off the main lobby of the resort, the ritual was recently upgraded and moved to its own space on the property as part of the resort’s multi-million dollar facelift. Live music provides an inviting backdrop to this iconic offering, creating a signature setting for any special occasion. Full Tea includes a luscious three-course menu of delicate, house-made finger sandwiches, fresh scones with Devonshire cream and fruit preserves, and delicious pastries—all complemented by a diverse selection of fine tea blends. Those-in-the-know opt for the Royal Tea enhancement, which includes all of the above plus a glass of Perrier-Jouët Champagne. ThePhoenician.com
Of course, there are those who buck tradition altogether, opting to create their own take on tea service. Case in point: the tipsy tea party at The Camby. Offered monthly at the hotel’s Bees Knees outpost, this spirited iteration features antique teapots whose contents have been turned up a notch. Why? They have been infused with actual spirits and house syrups, transforming them into tea-infused craft cocktails! This twisted take also includes several courses of elevated sweet and savory bites, presented tableside every few minutes by the attentive wait staff. Pay attention to the plating with each course here, and expect whimsy more in line with Alice in Wonderland than Queen Elizabeth. TheCamby.com
Finally, offering a charming new take on an Old World tradition but without going quite as rogue as The Camby, Drink Me! Tea Room boasts an enchanting backdrop from which to enjoy an afternoon of organic teas and a host of plant-based and gluten-free bites, including chick-pea salad sandwiches, hummus and pesto pinwheels, and Earl Grey macarons. Drink Me! also features a full line of “special-tea” cocktails that showcase locally made spirits with tea syrups and infusions—some that even change color! DrinkMeTeaRoom.com
Each tearoom either strongly recommends or requires advance reservations, and in addition to Drink Me!, with advance notice all of the above can make substitutions as needed for gluten-free guests, as well as vegetarians and vegans.