You’ll want to get in on these afternoon tea specials before they’re scone!
Whether you’re just in the mood for a cup of tea or visiting from out of town and looking for a fun activity to do with friends, afternoon tea is always a great option regardless of if it’s a big to-do or a casual weekend outing.
From decadent tea services to cozy corners and everything in between, Chicago is filled to the brim with classy high-tea spots serving stacked tiny sandwich platters and all the tea of course! Keep reading for the ‘tea’ on the best high tea spots in Chicago!
1. Pavilion at The Langham
The popular River North hotel has been serving tea since 1865 at its London location and it’s still ongoing today, coming to Chicago in 2013. The fancy hotel is well-known for its themed events, serving up spring-inspired tea services like this year’s Alice in Wonderland Tea! Tea service goes from $55 to $135. Reserve a spot every Saturday and Sunday.
Address: 330 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
2. The Drake
The Palm Court has been serving an elevated tea service at the historic Mag Mile located hotel for over 100 years. The Drake, which opened in 1920, was first named The Fountain Court, with The Queen and Princess Diana visiting.
Today, the Palm Court serves 17 unique tea blends on the Palais de Thes menu, complete with a selection of finger sandwiches. This year, they’re offering a spring-centric service dubbed Spring Blossom until April 30th. There’s also the Prince & Princess Afternoon Tea which is perfect for those ages 3-12.
Address: 140 East Walton Place, Chicago, IL 60611
3. River Vista Afternoon Tea Service at Bridges Lounge LondonHouse
Make a reservation at LondonHouse for a day filled with stunning views, refreshing tea, and a bevy of bubbly drinks to choose from. They offer boozy spiked tea options as well, for a fun afternoon spent sipping on your drink of choice.
Service behind at 4 p.m. daily with reservations highly recommended.
Address: 85 E. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL, 60601
4. The Allis at Soho House
The ground floor of Soho House Chicago is filled with an assortment of teas, pastry towers, and decadent cakes galore. If you’re feeling spicy, you can add a glass of bubbly to the tab as well, for an extra fun-filled time.
The Allis is open Friday and Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. It’s $55 for normal tea service and $68 for sparkling tea.
Address: 113-125 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
5. The Lobby at The Peninsula
The Peninsula Chicago brings a traditional tea service to the Windy City, offering a selection of British-inspired sips and snacks, with an ever-changing seasonal menu. Sip on a warm drink and have a scone or sandwich alongside some champagne. A Peter Rabbit theme takes over The Lobby with spring-tastic decor and more currently going until the end of the month.
It’s $135 for adults and $55 for kids with service open Friday through Sunday from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. https://www.peninsula.com/en/beijing/hotel-fine-dining/the-lobby-afternoon-tea
6. Kostali at The Gwen
If you’re looking for a boozy twist on the classic tea special, head to Kostali at the Gwen every Saturday and Sunday as they put on a Tipsy Tea Party! Complete with finger sandwiches, pastries, and your choice of spiked or classic tea, the gorgeous Mediterranean restaurant amps up afternoon tea, bringing it to a bottomless brunch level. The traditional tea package starts at $65 and includes 90 minutes of bottomless non-alcoholic tea choices.
Address: 521 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611
7. Vanille Patisserie
Transport yourself to France with a spot of afternoon tea at the Lincoln Park staple. Filled with whimsical pastries, tasty sandwiches, and a selection of delicious tea options catering to the season, they’re currently doing a spring tea experience until May 28th, filled with scones and their signature Benjamin Tea.
Offered Tuesday through Sunday, the $75 package starts at 11:30 a.m. The restaurant also does a BYOB package and a take-home tea experience as well! Make your reservations here.
[Featured photo via: The Gwen]