More than just a means to get a midday caffeine fix, afternoon tea is a timeless ritual that spans the planet, blending culture, elegance, and culinary artistry. Each worldwide destination puts its own unique spin on the widely-adored tradition, whether it’s pairing Champagne with decadent French patisserie in Paris or hosting a pet-friendly spread for four-legged guests in Cape Town. These experiences transcend the simple act of sipping tea (plus, many of the most luxe afternoon teas also have plenty of options for coffee and cognac drinkers, too). Whether you’re a tea connoisseur or simply seeking a unique travel experience, get your pinkies up as these afternoon teas promise to delight the senses and elevate your itinerary.
The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel
New York City
The Palm Court at The Plaza has been a quintessential New York City destination for afternoon tea for more than 115 years. Reimagined in 2013, it now offers a refined experience with teas by Palais des Thés and an elevated menu of American cuisine. Renowned architect Thierry Despont led the renovation, preserving the space’s historic charm while infusing it with Central Park-inspired elements, like lush palms, trellis details, and cane-accented furnishings. The centerpiece remains the stained-glass dome, echoing the original from the early 1900s. Beyond its legendary afternoon tea, The Plaza itself is a pop culture fixture, prominently featured in iconic films such as The Way We Were, Home Alone 2, The Great Gatsby, and Sleepless in Seattle. Afternoon tea is served at The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel every day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. To book, visit www.theplazany.com.
The Palm Court at The Ritz London
London
As the only hotel in the UK with a certified Tea Master (that’d be Giandomenico Scanu), The Ritz London means business when it comes to afternoon tea. Scanu travels the globe to various tea plantations to source the resort’s exceptional teas. Guests of the afternoon tea experience will be delighted by the choice of more than 20 excellent options, alongside a variety of finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones with Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserves, and exquisitely presented pastries and teacakes (all replenished on request, of course). To add even more indulgence to the time-honored experience, opt for the Ritz tableside service, which includes two generous slices of cake from the guéridon trolley, or the addition of Champagne to the spread. Afternoon tea seatings take place at The Palm Court at The Ritz London daily at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free menus are available upon request. To book, visit www.theritzlondon.com.
La Galerie at Hôtel Plaza Athénée
Paris
The Plaza Athénée Afternoon Tea, taking place in the fairytale setting of La Galerie to the gentle melody of the harp, marries the elegance of a classic teatime experience with decadent French patisserie. Guests will enjoy Pastry Chef Angelo Musa’s beautiful sweets and cakes, alongside a selection of savory handhelds (like Hôtel Plaza Athénée’s signature Croque-Plaza). Guests are invited to elevate their experience with the addition of a glass of Champagne. Afternoon tea is served at La Galerie at Hôtel Plaza Athénée every day from 2 to 7 p.m. To book, visit dorchestercollection.com.
The Lounge at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel
Cape Town
Afternoon tea was introduced at “The Nellie” in 1989 and has evolved into a much-loved Cape Town tradition since. Dine on sumptuous and seasonally inspired cakes, pastries, and sandwiches – with live piano music to set the scene – during afternoon tea at The Lounge at Mount Nelson. Connoisseurs can choose from over 60 premium loose-leaf and flowering teas, as well as local infusions such as buchu, rooibos, and honeybush (coffee, whiskey, and cognac drinkers have the quite the selection to peruse, as well). Because four-legged friends like to be included in the fun too, “The Nellie” also hosts a special pet-friendly afternoon tea with Fido and Fifi’s faves: think rare roast beef, meatloaf, and more. Vegan and gluten-free menus are also available. Afternoon tea is served at The Lounge at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel every day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. To book, visit www.belmond.com.
The Lobby at The Peninsula Tokyo
Tokyo
Resort guests and locals alike make time to experience Peninsula Afternoon Tea under the hotel’s iconic hanabi firework-inspired crystal chandelier. Teatime participants enjoy an elegant array of both savory and sweet delights, paired with homemade preserves and clotted creams. In addition to a selection of Peninsula proprietary teas, the current cherry-themed afternoon tea (which is available through June 30) features cherry-and-beetroot gazpacho with scallops, cucumber, and balsamic cream; octopus-and-eggplant caponata with dried cherry and pickled celery; panna cotta with rooibos tea and cherry jelly; and more. For a truly luxurious afternoon tea experience, book the balcony, which is only accessible via a private entrance which leads guests to a dining area set for four. Balcony guests also enjoy the best seats in the house to view the live music ensemble. Afternoon tea is served at The Lobby at The Peninsula Tokyo every day from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. To book, visit www.peninsula.com.