The British Tradition Of Afternoon Tea Is Flourishing In The States

Forbes

04-05-2025

Americans have plenty of options to enjoy afternoon tea.
The venerable British tradition of afternoon tea, which dates back to the 19th century, is also flourishing throughout the United States as hotels, resorts and tea rooms offer delectable finger sandwiches, savory scones and a wide variety of exotic tea blends. For many visitors, relaxing with a soothing cup of tea has become a favorite pastime while traveling for business or pleasure.
Afternoon tea is normally served on traditional three-tiered trays. The lower tier can includes such delicacies as canapes with shrimp mousse, dill herbed cream cheese and Irish butter with cucumbers. Sandwich fillings can feature fresh herb egg salad and curried chicken with currants. A second tier typically holds scones, in flavors like Apricot-Ginger or Prune-Ginger and tea bread. A favorite true 'tea bread' has sultanas and dried cranberries, soaked overnight in black tea and brown sugar, which is mixed with orange peel. On top guests can choose from biscuits or shortbread flavored with lemon and lavender, mini cuppa-cakes and fresh lemon possets or lemon fools with organic blueberries.
Although most U.S. cities would not be mistaken for London, there are nonetheless a wide variety of options for afternoon tea with each venue offering a distinctive flavor and flare. For many locals and tourists alike, afternoon tea serves as an oasis amid the mayhem of some of the world's busiest cities. In effect, afternoon tea is the perfect segue from the frenzy to the calm of a centuries-old British tradition.
As International Tea Day on May 21 quickly approaches, the following hotels are sure to be offering special tea experiences. Each one offers a unique blend of history, culture and culinary flair – truly worth the trip.
"The Deconstruction of Tea" features Mountain Berry Tea Infused Botanist.
Although not officially afternoon tea, Four Seasons Hotel Boston is bringing romance and culture back exclusively for its guests with the new cocktail program at the redesigned lounge and restaurant, Coterie. At the heart of this innovative offering is "The Deconstruction of Tea" cocktail, a clever nod to the historical event of the Boston Tea Party, originally known as the destruction of tea until 1820. Exclusively designed by Coterie's General Manager, Delainey Rowland, the cocktail program at Coterie masterfully bridges the gap between past and present, drawing inspiration from Boston's Public Garden and paying homage to its storied past. "The Deconstruction of Tea" features Mountain Berry Tea Infused Botanist, Lime, Thyme and Prosecco, creating a delightful blend that captures the essence of tradition and modernity.
Afternoon tea is served over a leisurely two-hour seating.
Make the weekends extra special with Afternoon Tea Service at Hôtel Swexan, served Saturdays and Sundays in Lèonie, the rooftop dining restaurant in Dallas' newest boutique gem. Over a leisurely two-hour seating, guests can delight in a decadent spread of artfully crafted sweets, delicate tea sandwiches and seasonal scones, paired with their choice of premium loose-leaf tea or refreshing tea-infused cocktails. For those looking to upgrade the experience, Hôtel Swexan offers the add-on of champagne and caviar at the close of the tea, all while looking out from the 20th floor of the luxury property.
High Tea is served at newly unveiled signature restaurant Remi.
Hotel Granduca, a luxury all-suite boutique hotel, reintroduces its beloved Granduca High Tea at the newly unveiled signature restaurant Remi. Experience an elegant Italian twist on the classic English afternoon tea at the city's latest culinary gem, where Old-World charm meets Texan hospitality at the recently renovated property. Step into a world of refined indulgence with Hotel Granduca's signature Tè Pomeridiano, a thoughtfully curated high tea experience featuring an exquisite selection of brewed teas, perfectly paired with delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones and decadent desserts – all with an Italian flair.
Afternoon Tea is served in the iconic Grand Lobby and Veranda.
Set in the heart of Downtown Nashville, The Hermitage Hotel is a timeless icon of best-in-class accommodations, service, dining and warm Southern hospitality. Originally opened in 1910, the privately owned and operated hotel has stood as one of Nashville's premier luxury properties for more than 110 years. In 2022, the hotel completed a multi-year redesign and revitalization of its 122 oversized guest rooms, suites and public spaces, alongside a restoration of its distinctive Beaux Arts architecture. Afternoon Tea is served in The Hermitage Hotel's iconic Grand Lobby and Veranda every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Delightfully southern, the afternoon tea service aptly themed, 'Spillin' Tea with Draper James,' is inspired by recipes from Reese Witherspoon's cookbook, Whiskey in a Teacup, and features custom linens.
Tea is presented at one of Waikiki's most exclusive boutique hotels,
This International Tea Day, ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki presents the perfect celebration at Mugen's celebrated Afternoon Tea, where Hawaii's luxury shines through golden Oscietra caviar, spiny lobster and Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé paired with rare TEALEAVES blends and local infusions like Manoa Chocolate tea. The experience reflects the same thoughtful curation found throughout one of Waikiki's most exclusive boutique hotels, where nine residential-style suites, each an entire floor with private elevator access, redefine oceanfront luxury. Limited to a dozen guests every Saturday, this is afternoon tea perfected – a harmony of omotenashi hospitality and island-inspired elegance.