The British tradition of afternoon tea is so much more than merely drinking a warm brown liquid. It’s a tradition and a cultural pastime that allows us to be present and in the moment. As the flow of conversation engulfs one’s table and the cups of tea begin to empty, time passes by at a different pace. There’s something comforting about the notion of gathering around a table delicately plated with savory and sweet bites. This is what makes afternoon tea such a delightful experience. Over the years, this Britsh custom made its way across the point and has slowly become integrated into Atlanta’s social scene and in doing so has melded a piece of the British tradition and with Southern charm. To enjoy afternoon tea in Atlanta is to experience something new and something old simultaneously.

1. The St. Regis

Located at the hotel’s Astor Court, the St. Regis afternoon tea experience provides an intimate and luxurious setting for patrons to enjoy. The Astor Court overlooks a grand chandelier within the main lobby of the hotel and contains views of Atlanta through the floor-to-ceiling windows within the area. Delicate floral carpeting and plush chairs within the dining area add to the ambiance. As for the afternoon tea experience, patrons are first introduced to samples of loose leaf tea. This allows one to smell and become acquainted with the profile of each available selection. This process allows one to find a tea blend that suits their pallet perfectly.

After selecting one’s tea, the rotating seasonal food menu provides an assortment of savories and sweets. One sandwich in particular called Devilled Egg Salad encompasses mixed greens, grainy mustard, bread & butter pickles which are tucked into a flaky butter croissant. The sweets menu also contains numerous selections such as a Strawberry Inspiration Mousse served  served with a ginger crumble, white chocolate whipped ganache, and fresh raspberries.

2. The Whitley Hotel

At number two, The Whitley Hotel provides an exclusive Tipsy Tea experience, allowing patrons to enjoy craft tea cocktails with their small bites. The dining room that hosts this experience contains a moody aesthetic with walnut floors, a mixture of charcoal and grey seating, and gold accents adorning the room. As for the menu, patrons can choose from a Cucumber Mint Mystic Tea or a Jasmine Peach Mystic Tea. The Jasemine Peach Mystic Tea contains Hendrick’s Gin, Lillet Blanc, peach syrup, lemon, and Jasemine tea. The light floral notes of the Jasmine tea pairs well with the Lillet Blanc while the citrus of the gin and fruity profile of the drink creates the perfect summer drink. As for the dining menu, patrons can choose from three types of finger sandwiches and three petit bakes. The Cucumber & Heirloom Tomato sandwich served with lemon dill goat cheese spread on honey whole wheat bread is the star of the show. The freshness of the lemon dill goat cheese spread compliments the cucumber and heirloom tomato to create a light sandwich.

3. Waldorf Astoria

Afternoon Tea at the Waldorf Astoria is a customizable experience with three different selections that guests can choose from. The Buckhead Tea Set includes seven sandwiches, seven petit sweets, a scone, and a glass of sparkling wine or cider along with one’s tea selection. The Brassica Tea Set offers the same selections but the option for a glass of Telmont Reserve Brut or Rosé is offered. Lastly, the Waldorf Tea set again offers the same food selections but for a touch of luxury, guests can enjoy a glass of Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne with their meal. The presentation of the afternoon tea within a silver-tiered stand combined with the upscale interior décor creates an elegant feel.

4. Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party

Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party is for patrons who enjoy a rustic English cottage aesthetic. The interior contains varying textures from a soft yellow wallpaper to exposed red brick. Decorating the walls are vintage framed pictures of different-sized frames and styles, adding to the antique feel of the room. Along one wall with shelving that holds small knickknacks are origami cranes hanging from the ceiling. Afternoon Tea can either be enjoyed on a vintage china tray inside or for a more intimate feel, guests can reserve a private party in the piano room. The entire menu is vegetarian and consists of scones with clotted cream and jam, various sandwiches such as a pimento cheese sandwich, and a dessert. What makes this location stand out is their selection of over 70 tea blends, allowing guests an assortment of options depending on their taste.

5.  Just Add Honey Tea Company

For those who want to experience a casual afternoon tea experience, Just Add Honey Tea Company offers reservations for just that. Located off of the Atlanta beltline, Just Add Honey blends their loose-leaf tea on-site, ensuring a high-quality tea selection. The atmosphere inside is warm and inviting with honeycomb designs scattered throughout the shop. You can either grab a tea from the menu or pre-book an afternoon tea party for a later date. After booking a private afternoon tea party for the patio, guests can expect chicken salad sandwiches served in croissants, scones, jam, and two desserts which vary.

Afternoon tea has captivated the international hub known as Atlanta with new opportunities for residents to experience the British tradition. Within Atlanta, patrons have various options to experience Afternoon Tea whether it be at the St. Regis for a luxurious atmosphere or to Just Add Honey for a casual vibe. Whichever location suits one’s desire, a delicious and relaxing afternoon surrounded by tea sandwiches, scones, and new creations awaits.