21+ Luxurious Afternoon Tea Washington DC Offers You’d Love

UPDATED for 2025

Afternoon tea is one of those quintessential “fancy” activities visitors want to do when they are in London, Edinburgh, and yes, even in Washington, D.C. If you are looking for High Tea in Washington, D.C., chances are you want a D.C. afternoon tea, as we as Americans think that these two meals are interchangeable. They aren’t, but I’ll get into that later.

When it comes to our favorite, the most decadent, or even the cheapest relaxing afternoon tea Washington DC has to offer, you have a plethora to choose from. Whether you want an elegant hotel lounge, a cozy tea shop, or a restaurant that has taken their tea service to a whole other level, D.C. high tea and afternoon tea Washington DC will show you the best of this hundreds-year-old practice that Lady Bedford, one of Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, introduced us all to back in the 1840s.

What are the 5 best places for afternoon tea Washington DC?

We will dig into each of these afternoon tea hotspots further down, along with a longer list of the most amazing and even the cheapest afternoon tea in D.C. But if you are just looking for a simple list of a few of the top afternoon teas in D.C., here you go—expect luxury loose leaf teas, tea sandwiches, savory finger sandwiches, and delectable treats at these top spots.

• The Willard Intercontinental
• Blue Duck Tavern
• Four Seasons Washington, D.C.
• Salamander Washington DC
• Opaline Bar and Brasserie

Keep reading, though, as you will soon learn not all afternoon teas are the same, nor are they afternoon teas, but high tea in Washington, D.C., and vice versa.

We will also dive into which venues are offering holiday teas and Christmas teas in DC, plus the best afternoon teas for kids. After all, our little princesses (and even some princes) want to enjoy scones, savory finger sandwiches, and a hot beverage now and then, too.

The History of Tea

Tea’s adventurous past is neither simple nor short and cannot be easily abbreviated to fit an introduction that commemorates Washington DC tea outings. But without getting into the nitty-gritty, centuries ago, loose leaf teas nearly did ‘run the world.’

Tea traditions from East Asia spread like wildfire and collaboratively initiated a modern wave of new ideas, traditions, and customs—a building block that catapulted a cycle of growing technology, supply and demand chains, and reinforced symbols of power and prestige. These traditions evolved, incorporating decadent pastries and pastry delights that transformed tea into more than just a beverage—it became an experience.

The Western world’s colonizing tendencies allowed for the modification of ancient tea practices to fit daily life back home. Soon, original rituals were reinvented and reimagined to fit unique customs, laws, and cultural expectations on an extremely local level. Today, afternoon tea is often a special gathering, bringing people together in the perfect setting to enjoy an elegant and time-honored tradition.

Spurred by human movement, the massive spread of tea is not far off from modern social media campaigns that sweep the globe almost instantly, just on a slightly slower and water-bound scale.

The Beginnings of Afternoon Tea

In the 1840s, one of Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, Anna Marie Russell, found herself getting hungry around 4 p.m. With modernization happening at a rapid rate, including gas lamps being used at night, supper (or dinner) was being pushed back later and later in the evening for the upper classes, making it hard to go from lunch to dinner without a little bite.

According to the British Museum, “she requested that some tea, bread and butter, and cake was brought to her room in the late afternoon – and with that one request of a lady’s grumbling stomach, an afternoon ritual was born.” This simple request soon transformed into a relaxing afternoon tea, complete with fine teas, homemade scones, and delicate pastries. The upper class quickly adopted this late afternoon ritual, but not until 20 years later would traditional afternoon tea reach the masses.

In 1865, The Palm Court at the Langham opened in London and offered this late afternoon snack on its hotel menu, thus creating a more mainstream tea experience for the public to enjoy—not just the Queen of England and her court.

Modern Day Afternoon Tea

Today, afternoon tea is seen as an indulgence, at least in North America, and one that is to be celebrated, dressed up for, and reserved for meeting up with friends or a special occasion. While you could easily prepare a cheap afternoon tea at home—and many do—most people looking for tea in Washington will go out to a restaurant, tea salon, historic home, museum, or a hotel lounge, each offering a broad selection of teas and treats in an elegant ambience.

You could almost say that tea went from the castle to the living room and back to the castle, as prices for traditional afternoon tea service in the U.S. can be prohibitive for anyone not in the middle and upper classes. However, many venues have embraced a distinctly contemporary spin, making afternoon tea more accessible in a new setting while still honoring its roots. Whether enjoyed as a rare treat or a regular ritual, afternoon tea continues to evolve, balancing history with a bold freedom that allows for innovation and creativity.

High Tea versus Afternoon Tea in DC

While you may be searching for high tea in D.C. right now, you most likely are looking for a Washington, D.C., afternoon tea. Many Americans (until recently, this included me) don’t know the difference between afternoon tea and high tea, but it’s fairly simple.

High tea is a more substantial meal, served at a high table (standard-height dinner table usually). It can be a light supper or dinner served with tea, but includes substantially more food than an afternoon tea and is served later in the day, around 5 p.m.–7 p.m. High tea is also more relaxed than afternoon tea. You are ending your day, and it is expected that you will want to unwind after a long day at work, but not be quite as loose as you would be at the pub with your mates.

Afternoon tea, or low tea, is served at a lower table, often a coffee table with couches, chairs, and even a settee around it so guests can lounge. Afternoon tea is served earlier in the afternoon, between about 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. This tea is more formal, and it is when you want to mind your manners the most. You don’t want to gorge yourself on those savory sandwiches, sweet treats, homemade scones, and other pastry delights. Instead, you take your time, savoring the experience of luxury loose leaf teas and an extensive selection of carefully curated delights.

The British understand this difference and will spot an American from miles away if you ask for High Tea anytime between lunch and the dinner hour. Although, thanks to strategic marketing, I do find that restaurants in the UK will advertise “high tea” when it is really an afternoon tea. It sounds fancier, but in reality, the “high” just refers to the table you sit at.

Now that you know the difference between high tea and afternoon tea, we will dig into afternoon teas in D.C., which offer an elegant experience filled with British tea pastries and some contemporary twists on traditional tea fare. Whether you’re indulging in the finest estate teas, enjoying a special gathering in the perfect setting, or embracing a bold freedom in modern interpretations, afternoon tea in D.C. delivers a refined and memorable experience.

Things to know about tea in Washington, D.C.

What makes a great D.C. Afternoon Tea or High Tea? 

Personally, the best afternoon tea in D.C. will offer a variety of loose-leaf teas. There will be no tea bags filled with the tea sweepings off the floor of a tea processing plant (something an old boss of mine used to call “Orange Pekoe” when I worked in a tea room in Savannah, GA, during my college years). 

An afternoon tea should be filled with fine teas, like organic blue nile chamomile, blooming teas that open into gorgeous flowers, Dragon Pearl green tea, bespoke black teas blended just for the restaurant or hotel tea room, and even a tea pairing menu that compliments each tier of your afternoon tea service. 

But that’s my personal taste. You may be looking for a more modern twist on afternoon tea instead of the grandeur of Peacock Alley, where Willard’s traditional afternoon tea is served. It is probably the most well-known afternoon tea in Washington, D.C. 

From a historic hotel to a tea room tucked into a house in Georgetown, there is an afternoon tea for everyone when you are looking for things to do in Washington, D.C. Just remember, sometimes establishments use afternoon tea and high tea interchangeably. While you might know the difference now, the restaurant might not… or is just making their tea sounds more fancy by adding in “High Tea.”  

What is included in a typical afternoon tea experience in Washington DC?

Most afternoon teas start out the same way- you sit down in a cushy chair or couch with a tea table already set for you with fine china or the dishes of choice for the establishment. You are then presented with your tea menu and possibly given a glass of champagne or Prosecco to begin to open up your palate. 

Your tea order will be taken (make sure you ask if you can switch out teas during your meal or have your companions each order a different tea so you can sample a few). While you sit back and relax, your tea is prepared along with a selection of treats made by the chef (some pastries may be brought in if the restaurant or tea house doesn’t have an in-house pastry team, and that is OK). 

Your tea will arrive, and as you start to take your first sip, your food should arrive as well. 

Sometimes the afternoon tea service is presented on a traditional three-tiered tray, each tier representing a different course you will work your way through, while other times a plate for each course, along with a palate cleanser in between, may be served. It all just depends on where you go for tea. If you are at a true High Tea, there will be a savory entree served as well. 

Just remember, while some will tell you the sweet treats should be eaten last… I find you can do just about anything you like. I start with the savory, then the sweet, and lastly, my scone. I love scones (obsessed with them in fact, especially when I’m in Scotland), but they fill me up really quickly, so I need to prioritize the other menu items so I can taste them as well. 

This being the United States, don’t be afraid to ask for a to-go container for any goodies you don’t have room to devour. No one should bat an eye at this request, as afternoon tea has turned into larger and larger portions, so why not have a late snack after you get home too? Even on my last trip to Scotland and Wales, I found that the portions were huge and the restaurants were beginning to have takeaway containers on hand so you don’t have to waste a single morsel. 

What are the prices for afternoon tea in Washington, D.C.?

Depending on WHERE your tea is, WHEN you want to have tea, if you want a SPECIALTY TEA, and how FANCY you want to get it, can determine the price of your Washington, D.C., afternoon tea. You can spend anywhere from $25 to $100 or more on afternoon tea, and that doesn’t even include extra alcoholic beverages (it’s hard not to sample a cocktail at some of these lounges and bars, or add on a glass of Prosecco!).

Are there any afternoon tea options in Washington, D.C. that cater to dietary restrictions?

After Calabash Tea & Tonic closed, it has been hard to find a dedicated vegan or vegetarian tea, however, many of the restaurants, tea shops and hotels offering afternoon tea do have alternative menus, or they can make substitutions for those who eat vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or have other allergies that need to be accommodated in order for you to enjoy in the time-honored tradition of afternoon tea in Washington, D.C. 

If you are looking for a dedicated menu, though, The Willard Intercontinental: Peacock Alley does have specific gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian menus you can order from. 

Find more tips for booking an afternoon tea in D.C. in our FAQ section below. 

Are there any afternoon tea options in Washington, D.C. that offer a special ambiance or theme?

Peacock Alley at the Willard is probably the most impressive tea room in all of Washington, D.C., and brings on the ambience in spades. You can also find themed teas throughout the year, our favorite being cherry blossom afternoon teas and holiday/Christmas tea. 

During the holiday season you will see more kids’ teas pop up too, which is nice when you want to get all dressed up and take the kids to something special before or after a performance of the Nutcracker (there are several to choose from around D.C., but the Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker is probably the most popular- find more performances in our DC Christmas concerts and event guide). 

Are there any afternoon tea options in Washington, D.C. that are suitable for special occasions, such as bridal showers or birthday celebrations?

Almost all of the tea rooms, hotels, historic homes, and restaurants on our list can accommodate private events. The best thing to do is to call as far in advance as possible to find out how many guests the space can hold, if there are private dining rooms or sections of the space for your party so that other guests won’t be disturbed (or try to join in on your fun), if there is availability on the date of your event, pricing and menu options. 

Your Guide to the Best Afternoon Tea and High Tea in D.C.

As a city that celebrates ethnic diversity and multiculturalism, there’s no question that the afternoon tea scene in Washington, D.C. mirrors the multiplicity of the city. Chinese tea ritual, casual global tea-fair, and internationally-themed events all contribute to a hybrid tea culture, honoring a unique melting-pot narrative by celebrating special occasion gatherings, festive birthday events, and togetherness—a mishmash global-tea culture wrapped into the nation’s capital city.

No matter what type of tea you are looking for or how much you want to spend, there is a tea experience for you in Washington, D.C., and some even offer seasonal cocktails, which will add a little something extra to your afternoon delight. 

Washington DC Afternoon Teas in Hotels

The Willard Intercontinental: Peacock Alley

• Address: Willard InterContinental, 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
• Reservations? You can make a reservation on the website or by calling (202) 942-7010. 
• Seating times: 1pm and 3pm (90-minute dining restriction) on Saturday and Sunday
• Website

For a near high-tea experience on this side of the pond, explore The Willard Intercontinental’s renowned afternoon tea. Experience the iconic Willard Afternoon Tea in a new setting/ The Willard Tea Room stands as the newest gem within this historic hotel. Located just off the renowned Peacock Alley, this elegant space continues the tradition of refined tea service with an elevated ambiance.

A corridor strewn with ornate golds, rich reds, and grand crown moldings reaffirms afternoon tea’s posh undertones with just enough East Coast modesty to allow for family gatherings and American puns. The elegant tea selection features black, green, herbal, and white varieties to accompany stylish sandwiches, pastries, and scones.

Keep a special eye out for Peacock Alley’s two seasonal afternoon tea offerings—‘Holiday Afternoon Tea’ and ‘Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea.’ Gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and children’s menus are available upon request.

Afternoon tea to-go available on Saturdays (orders need to be placed 48 hours in advance).

The Tavern at Henley Park Hotel

• Address: 926 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
• Reservations: Call (800) 222-8447 or make an online reservation
• Royal Tea or English Tea available
• Seating times: Friday from 2pm-5pm, Saturday and Sunday 12pm-4pm
• Website

The Tavern at the Henley Park Hotel pays tribute to English Tudor architecture with a dedication to Britain’s unofficial beverage of choice. Both afternoon tea options host warm house-made scones with cream and jam, while the ‘Royal tea’ shows off with a larger selection of seasonal tarts and chocolate truffles and tea sandwiches for more ravenous eaters. 

Cocktails are an additional $14 per drink, but $22 will buy you an unlimited supply of booze to alternate sips of tea.

Blue Duck Tavern’s Tea Cellar

• Address: 1201 24th St NW, Washington, DC 20037 (Located inside the Park Hyatt Hotel)
• Reservations? Yes
• Seatings: 3pm to 5pm Sunday only
• Website

A top DC destination to savor transformed local ingredients, Blue Duck Tavern advanced the notion of ‘farm-to-table’ with a semi-private dining experience at the Tea Cellar. This tea-sipping experience is not your typical afternoon-tea setting. 

Gastronomic plates and glass humidor-aged teas account for a very unique event showcasing “the best curated collection of tea in the United States”. 

Blue Duck Tavern’s restaurant culinary team constructs an exclusive menu to highlight regional ingredients and help showcase over 35 rare and limited-production teas. The intimate space can seat 10 people or accommodate 25 standing guests for a standing reception.

If you aren’t looking for a private dining experience, you can still book a table for afternoon tea at Blue Duck Tavern, featuring three tiers of gourmet bites and a massive list of exquisite teas. Get ready to indulge in a smoked salmon eclair, Maryland crab salad, citrus dark chocolate madeleines, milk chocolate espresso scones, honey peach panna cotta, and match shortbread (and that’s not even the complete menu!).

Four Seasons Washington, D.C.

• Address: 2800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
• Reservations? Advisable
• Website

For those looking for savory finger sandwiches and tea menus that go above and beyond, the Four Seasons Georgetown in Washington, D.C. is the perfect spot for you. The hotel’s fine selection of teas include some of our favorite Ikaati Teas, plus you get a complimentary glass of champagne to sip as you open your palette and get ready for an enchanting selection of savory bites and lavish desserts.

The Four Seasons Washington, D.C., also has a separate kids’ tea menu, which features, PB&J sandwiches, hot cocoa and apple cider. 

The Lounge at the Salamander Washington DC

• Address: 1330 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
• Reservations? Yes, although walk-in seatings are available if they have an open table
• Website

When the Salamander bought the Mandarin Oriental in Washington, D.C., we were thrilled that they kept the afternoon tea tradition that we have come to love in the District. The Lounge is the perfect spot to gather with friends or family that have come to visit. The low tables make this a traditional afternoon tea, but the menu elevates it to the renowned afternoon tea experience you expect in a Salamander hotel. 

The afternoon tea menu features a savory tartlet with maple curry chicken salad, smoked Turkey with honey pecan aioli & cranberry chutney on brioche, Virginia ham salad on silver dollar bun, fig & brie on Pain de Mie with arugula & caviar, molasses cookies, cardamom caramel cake, dirty chai trifle, chocolate Rocher cheesecake, and Fig Newton scones (served with apple jam, lemon curd & Devonshire cream).

If you love cocktails, don’t skip the chance to try one of the Salamander’s curated cocktails from the Lounge bar, or add a glass of bubbly to your tea for a more festive ambiance. 

Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown

• Address: 2401 M St NW, Washington, DC 20037
• Reservations? Yes
• Hours: seasonal
• Website

While the Fairmont Georgetown afternoon tea is seasonal, usually around the holidays, Valentine’s Day, Cherry blossom season, Royal Ascot (don’t forget your fancy hat!), and other tea-worthy times of the year, you will want to book a reservation because their teas are epic. The chefs and bartenders love to utilize the thousands of Japanese honey bees that live on the roof, providing the hotel and restaurants with honey throughout the year (try the BEE-tini, you won’t be sorry!). 

Bite-sized treats like finger sandwiches, delicate sweet pastries, and of course scones are ready to fill you up to the point that you will think you are at high tea in D.C., and not an afternoon tea at the Fairmont. 

The Ritz-Carlton at Pentagon City

• Address: 1250 S Hayes St, Arlington, Virginia 22202 (Accessible by the DC metro blue and yellow line)
• Reservations? Reserve by calling (703) 412-2762 or make an online OpenTable
• Classic Experience, Tea Royale (with a glass of Champagne) or Teddy Bear Tea (children’s tea menu) available.
• Seating times: 12pm to 3pm, Saturday and Sunday
• Website

Warm scones, Devonshire cream, and artisan pastries pair beautifully with steeped loose-leaf tea at The Ritz-Carlton in Pentagon City. Comforting neutral tones bring warmth to the modern tearoom for a family-friendly afternoon tea experience. 

Pristine, bite-size goodies sport a contemporary twist to match the ambience. Young tea-goers can opt for hot chocolate and fuzzy stuffed animals if they would like a few cozy friends to join the table.

QuadranTea at Quadrant DC

• Address: The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C.,1150 22nd St NW, Washington, DC 20037
• Reservations? highly recommended
• Seating: 1:30pm to 3:30pm, Saturdays and Sundays
• Website

Indulge in savory bites and decadent pastries when you step into Quadrant DC or an afternoon QuadranTea inside of the Ritz-Carlton in Washington, D.C. The price point is similar to others you will find for afternoon tea around the District, with a delightful tea menu featuring white teas, black teas (some flavored), several herbal and non-caffeinated teas, and even one of the top Taiwanese Oolong teas.

Experience the beauty of the in-house chef’s mini quiche, mini caprese danish, brioche lobster rolls, scones, yuzu matcha white chocolate truffle, milk chocolate chip cookies, passion fruit mousse, and dulce de leche mini roll.

Le Goûter Afternoon Tea at Opaline Bar and Brasserie

• Address: 806 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005 (Located in the Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square)
• Reservations? Call (202) 730-8800 or email sunny.makhni@sofitel.com for reservations (Can be reserved up to 24 hours ahead of time)
• Seating times: 2pm to 4pm on Saturday only
• Website

French bistro vibes get a modern afternoon tea makeover every Saturday at Opaline Bar and Brasserie. The sweet bites don’t venture too far from French classics, featuring an array of fruit tarts, macaron, and madeleines that are adapted to refined tea-appropriate sizes and served on eclectic and colorful dishes. 

Embrace the true nature of Parisian dining and sip tea—or tea inspired cocktails—on the spacious and relaxing outdoor patio.

The Watergate Hotel

• Address: 2650 Virginia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037 
• Reservations? yes, they are required 
• Hours: 1pm- 2:30pm Saturdays and Sundays
• Website

The Watergate Hotel has one of the most extensive tea collections we’ve seen. Enjoy savory sandwiches, featuring some of our favorite classic tea sandwiches like Finely Sliced Cucumber, Atlantic Smoked Salmon, Prosciutto de Parma, and of course, Deviled Farm Egg Salad. Top off your afternoon tea with a glass of wine to go with your homemade blueberry scone with lemon curd and orange marmalade, plus an assortment of macarons, Opera Cakes, Marjolaines, and tiny Red Velvet Cakes.

The St. Regis Washington, D.C.

• Address: 923 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20006
• Reservations? Yes.
• Hours: 1pm- 4:45pm Thursday – Sunday
• Website

Peacock Alley at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC

• Address: 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004 
• Reservations? Yes
• Hours: 12pm and 2pm, Friday-Sunday 
• Website

The Hay-Adams Hotel

• Address: 800 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20006 
• Reservations? Yes 
• Website

Washington DC High Tea and Afternoon Tea in Restaurants and Cafes

Laduree M Street

• Address: 3060 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007
• Reservations? Book a table at the M street location’s website or call (202) 948-6350
• Seating times: Every day from 2pm-5pm
• Website

Known predominantly as a French macaron empire, Washington, D.C.’s Georgetown Laduree location hosts an afternoon tea every day of the week. 

Laduree’s version won’t break the bank, but also doesn’t skimp on fun or elegance. Tall ceilings, cool pastel colors, and hanging chandeliers show appreciation for the bakery’s Parisian origins. 

The luxurious velvet purple cushions automatically draw diners in for a choice of tea or hot chocolate and an assortment of three macarons, one pastry, two Guimauves (marshmallows), one savory Madeleine, and two finger sandwiches.

Ching Ching Cha

• Address: 1063 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007
• Reservations? not necessary
• Seating times: 11am to 7pm, Thursday through Monday
• Website

An afternoon tea at Ching Ching Cha immerses diners into a Chinese tea ritual to celebrate the ‘Art of Tea’. Gather around rosewood tables or platform seating while basking in natural sunlight that glows through a towering skylight. Steeped in history, the ritualistic tea menu is intended to relax, nourish, and permeate the spirit of all Ching Ching Cha guests. 

Food accompaniments include delicacies like dumplings, soups, and sweets to help round out the elevated tea-sipping experience. Ching Ching Cha’s iced tea is a refreshing alternative to hot, blended with house-brewed tea leaves and sweetened fruit juice. 

After finishing afternoon tea, pop into the parallel shop to browse an assortment of teas, pottery teapots, and other tea-forward products.

Bitter Grace

• Address: Union Market, 1285 4th St NE Unit B, Washington, DC 20002 
• Reservations? Yes, must book 72 hours before your visit  
• Website

It’s a little weird to think about having afternoon tea in a boutique shop, but let me tell you– this one is worth checking out. Enjoy sipping from a fine selection of teas, and a glass of
Champagne or Sparkling Cider, while you dig into sweet and savory pastries, and a few confections that may make that cute outfit your wearing just a tad bit tighter. 

Elevated Tea at Art and Soul 

• Address: Yotel Washington DC, 415 New Jersey Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
• Reservations? 
• Hours: Friday and Saturday afternoons
• Website

For those looking for a modern twist on the traditional afternoon tea, stop into Art and Soul for tea in collaboration with their partners, Elevated Tea Co. The chef is pairing pastries, both sweet and savory, with a selection of regular blend and CBD teas. 

Tea infused cocktails (including the “High Tea cocktail”) are available, as well as bubbly wines, and a few optional add-on treats. It’s the perfect place if you are looking for something a bit more low-key, but where you can still enjoy tea time with friends.  

High Tea at Lady Camellia

• Address: 229 Strand St, Alexandria, VA 22314
• Reservations? Can make a reservation online up to a month in advance. Private parties should call in advance to schedule, and you should always reserve a table on the weekends and during the holiday season. 
• Hours: 1pm-6:30pm Tuesday-Friday, 10:30am – 7:30pm Saturday and Sunday
• Website

Lady Camellia’s is one place actually serving high tea in Washington, D.C. at the appropriate time. On weekends, this tea room offers a high tea with entree, making it a more substantial meal than an afternoon tea might be. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and during the Christmas season, as tables do book up. 

Teaism DC

• Address: Three locations at Lafayette Park, Penn Quarter, and Dupont Circle
• Reservations? Not necessary
• Hours: 11am-8pm daily
• Website

Since 2020, Teaism does NOT offer a set afternoon tea. You can still order a sweet or savory treat to go with their selection of black tea, green tea, white tea, herbal infusions, and other specialty teas, but you will not have that traditional, three-tiered tea service any longer. 

The dining room boasts bohemian vibes with floral accents—combining café, restaurant, and tea-room energies all into one. Cold, hot, and even Boba tea make up the stacked herbal caffeine menu while the food ventures far from typical bite-sized offerings with well-built nutritious plates.

High Tea and Afternoon Tea at Washington DC Historic Homes

Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens

• Address: 4155 Linnean Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
• Reservations? Contact group tours@hillwoodmuseum.org or call (202)243-3914 to make a reservation (reservations must be made at least 7 days in advance). Minimum of 10 guests.
• Hours: dependent on availability, season, and museum hours
• Website

Former home to philanthropist and art collector Marjorie Merriweather, the Hillwood Estate is THE only DC destination for a memorable ‘high-tea for the masses’ experience. Perfect for larger family gatherings, baby showers, or birthday celebrations, this afternoon tea requires a minimum ten guests to reserve a table. 

A feast of miniature scones, chicken salad croissant sandwiches, and chocolate Nutella tarts are served family-style with a choice of hot or iced tea. 

Before you leave, take a stroll through the Hillwood gardens or visit the museum to admire pristine eighteenth-century French-inspired decor, as well as Merriweather’s massive Russian art collection.

NOTE: Guests with allergies and dietary needs should contact the group sales manager for alternatives from our café menu.

Afternoon Tea at The Mansion on O Street

• Address: 2020 O St NW, Washington, DC 20036
• Reservations? Yes, minimum10 guests (private event)
• Hours: dependent on type of tea and availabilty
• Website

The Mansion on O Street offers two different afternoon teas: traditional afternoon tea, and a Kids Dessert Tea Party & Tour. These are PRIVATE events that you can book through the mansion, and do have a minimum guest requirement. 

Afternoon Tea at Dumbarton House

• Address: 2715 Q St NW, Washington, DC 20007
• Reservations? Yes
• Hours: seasonal
• Website

Afternoon Tea at Tudor Place Historic House & Garden

• Address: 1644 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007 
• Reservations? Yes, this is a private event only and requires groups of 15-35 people to book.  
• Hours: dependent on availability 
• Website

The Mansion at Strathmore in Bethesda

• Address: 10701 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Maryland 20852Call (301) 581-5108 for reservations (Pre-paid, non-refundable reservations required)
• Events: Specialty Teas & Tea and Talks
• Hours: Tea event dates available online. Tea begins at 1pm on the date of the event.
• Website

Enjoy a themed afternoon tea party with a ‘Specialty Tea’ at The Mansion at Strathmore. Strathmore is a non-profit community performance center in Northern Bethesda that serves locals and neighboring DC residents. Book early, as these do sell out every month they are offered. 

The Mansion’s ‘specialty teas’ extend Strathmore’s community arts mission with themed afternoon tea events that cultivate artistic conversation. Greek Tea, Outlander Scottish Tea and Talk, and Downton Abbey Tea—to name a few—pair with brilliantly tailored music, savory nibbles, and steaming pots of tea.

Best Afternoon Tea for Kids in Washington, D.C.

Since I’m a mom, I’m always on the lookout for fun things to do in Washington, D.C., with kids, and afternoon tea with kids is one I look forward to the most. There aren’t a ton of child-specific teas, but quite a few of the nicest spots for high tea and afternoon tea do have children’s pricing, and some even have kid menus. 

As more afternoon teas for kids pop up, I’ll be adding them here: 

• Four Seasons (Teddy Bear Tea)
• The Willard Intercontinental: Peacock Alley (children’s menu)
• Opaline
• Ladurée Washington – M.Street
• The Ritz-Carlton at Pentagon City
• Lady Camellia
• Art and Soul
• The Hay-Adams Hotel

Where can I find a Holiday Tea in Washington, D.C.?

You have a LOT of choices when it comes to afternoon tea in D.C., but not all of these tea spots offer a holiday or Christmas tea. Every year we keep an eye out to see who has added a holiday afternoon tea, and who is dropping the ball during the festive season. 

• Willard Intercontinental: DETAILS
• Four Seasons: DETAILS
• The St. Regis: DETAILS
• Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown (Frozen Festive Afternoon Tea): DETAILS
• Salamander Washington DC: DETAILS
• The Hay-Adams: DETAILS
• The Henley Park Hotel: DETAILS
• Opaline: DETAILS
• Ladurée: DETAILS
• Centrolina: DETAILS
• Tudor Place Holiday Tea and Tour: DETAILS

Christmas Afternoon Tea Washington DC

• Montpelier House Museum: Laurel, MD
• Kate Pearl Tea Room: Westminster, MD
• Emma’s Tea Spot: Baltimore, MD
• Sweet Simplici-Tea: Sykesville, MD
• Reynolds Tavern — Annapolis, MD
• Santé:Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City, VA
• Green Spring Gardens: Alexandria, VA
• Entyse at the Ritz-Carlton, Tyson’s Corner: McLean, VA
• Crest Hill Antiques and Tea Room: The Plains, VA
• Nutcracker Holiday Tea at The Tea Cart: Berryville, VA
• Gateau Bakery Café and Tea Room: Warrenton, VA

Frequently Asked Questions about Afternoon Tea and High Tea in Washington DC (FAQ)

What is High Tea or Afternoon Tea, and where can I enjoy it in Washington, D.C.?

High tea IS NOT afternoon tea, no matter what it is listed as on any menu in the United States of America. Afternoon tea is a classic British tradition that includes tea, finger sandwiches, pastries, and scones served in the mid-late afternoon. In Washington, D.C., you can experience afternoon tea at several restaurants, hotels, and tea houses in D.C., but a true high tea in Washington, D.C., is only offered at a few spots, including Lady Camillia.

What does a typical afternoon tea menu include in Washington, D.C.?

A typical afternoon tea menu includes a variety of loose leaf teas, finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber or smoked salmon, scones with clotted cream (aka Devonshire cream) and jam, and a selection of pastries, cakes, and tarts. 

Is there a dress code for High Tea in D.C. establishments?

Some afternoon and high tea venues may have a dress code, so it’s a good idea to check in advance. While formal attire is not always required, many guests choose to dress up for the occasion, especially if you are going to a prince or princess afternoon tea with your children. It’s the best excuse to break out those party dresses. 

How do I make a reservation for Afternoon Tea in Washington, D.C.?

You will want to make a reservation in advance for afternoon tea, especially in the more popular spots like The Willard and St. Regis. You can make a reservation by contacting the venue directly or using their online reservation system (many are on OpenTable).

What are the prices for High Tea in Washington, D.C.?

The cost of afternoon tea and high tea can vary depending on the menu and where you are having tea. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $80 or more per person. It can feel pricey, but it is worth it, especially when you are celebrating a special occasion, like a bridal shower or birthday. 

Are there any special dietary options for High Tea and afternoon tea in D.C. for those with dietary restrictions?

Many tea venues in Washington, D.C., offer options for guests with dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free menus. Call the establishment in advance to let them know what your food allergies are, and if anyone in your party has dietary restrictions they need to be aware of in advance. 

If the chef knows ahead of time, he can plan for these dietary needs and order the appropriate ingredients; if you show up and expect your allergies and dietary preferences to be accommodated on the spot, you may be disappointed. 

Can I host private events or parties for High Tea at D.C. establishments?

Yes, many high tea and afternoon tea venues in Washington, D.C., offer the option to host private events, such as bridal showers, birthday parties, baby showers, and any other celebration you can think of. Call in advance to see how many people the venue can hold, if there are discounts for large groups, and if you will have to bring in your own entertainment if you are eager to add live music to your event. 

Are there any special events or themes associated with High Tea in Washington, D.C.?

Some tea establishments in D.C. host special events or themed teas throughout the year, such as holiday teas, cherry blossom teas, teddy bear teas, Royal Ascot tea, and other seasonal variations. 

Additional Reporting by Mikaela Bloom