The fine china, towers of finger sandwiches, delicate sweets, and delicious beverages make afternoon tea a luxurious and elegant experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion (hint: Mother’s Day is right around the corner) or just want a unique afternoon out, Houston has several places that offer this English tradition. Read on to discover five places that offer afternoon tea service in town. (Note: All of these places require advanced reservations so make sure you call before you go.)
At Kiran’s Restaurant, English afternoon tea is a multi-course affair starting with samosas paired with masala chai, followed by classic and Indian-inspired finger sandwiches paired darjeeling tea, and ending with scones and desserts paired with earl grey tea. Gluten-free and vegetarian menus are available as is a kids menu that pairs peanut butter and jelly, and green apple and chicken sandwiches with hot chocolate. Tea service is available on Fridays and Saturdays from 2 to 4 p.m.
McHugh Tea Room offers more than 60 organic teas from all over the globe in its charming space in Bellaire. Enjoy an afternoon menu of tea sandwiches, scones and small desserts along with your choice of tea, or opt for the “tipsy tea” menu, which also includes bottomless cava. Afternoon tea is served Monday through Saturday between 2 and 3:30 p.m. Reservations must be made no later than noon the day before you visit.
Located in the exclusive residential area of Post Oak and River Oaks, the St. Regis Houston has been recognized for its quality of service, attention to detail and dining options since it opened in 1982. At its tea lounge, patrons can enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea service that includes a variety of tea sandwiches, pastries, and a gift box with assorted macarons. Kids will enjoy the kids menu, which comes with petite PB & Js, ham and cheese, and turkey and Swiss sandwiches. Offered on Fridays from 3 to 5 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3 to 5 p.m.
The Galleria-area Hotel Granduca takes English tea and adds a little Italian flair for its afternoon tea service. Served daily between 2 and 4 p.m., the Granduca high tea menu starts off with a glass of prosecco and is followed by an assortment of savory bites such as a filo dough cup of lobster salad with caviar, as well as a variety of pastries, scones and cakes. For the kiddos, “The Granduca Bunny Tea” menu offers tasty delights such mascarpone and nutella sandwiches.
Kick off tea service with a glass of champagne at Bistro Menil on the Menil Collection campus. Served from Wednesday to Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m., the $45 afternoon tea treats you to sweet treats, elegant finger sandwiches, and a selection of fine teas. Reservations at least 24 hours in advance are required.
