Skip the crowded brunch spots this Mother’s Day and opt for something a little more refined. Afternoon tea offers a slower, more intentional way to celebrate—think tiered trays of delicate sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream, and beautifully crafted pastries paired with perfectly brewed tea.
Whether you’re planning something grand or quietly elegant, these tea experiences across the U.S. deliver a thoughtful alternative that feels tailor-made for the occasion.
The Plaza Hotel — New York, New York
Few places capture classic New York elegance like The Plaza. Inside the iconic Palm Court, tea is served beneath a stunning stained-glass ceiling in one of the city’s most recognizable dining rooms.
Expect tiers of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves, and polished pastries paired with premium loose-leaf teas. Champagne upgrades and the whimsical Eloise-themed children’s tea add to the experience.
Why go: Timeless glamour and a true special-occasion atmosphere.
The Drake Hotel — Chicago, Illinois
Afternoon tea at The Drake is a long-standing Chicago tradition. Hosted in the elegant Palm Court, it blends historic charm with a celebratory feel.
The service includes classic tea sandwiches (the chicken salad is a favorite), scones, and petit fours, along with a curated tea selection and optional sparkling wine.
Why go: A historic setting that still feels lively and festive.
The Huntington Rose Garden Tea Room — San Marino, California
Set against one of Southern California’s most beautiful gardens, this tea service pairs seasonal flavors with a serene outdoor backdrop.
The menu highlights garden-inspired sandwiches, scones, and desserts, often featuring floral notes and fresh ingredients that reflect the setting.
Why go: A peaceful, botanical escape that elevates the entire experience.
Grand Hotel Tea Room — Mackinac Island, Michigan
Getting to Mackinac Island is part of the charm—no cars, just bikes and horse-drawn carriages. Afternoon tea at the Grand Hotel continues that old-world atmosphere.
Expect a classic spread of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries served in a refined, historic space, with lake views nearby.
Why go: A nostalgic experience that feels removed from modern-day pace.
Chado Tea Room — Los Angeles, California
Chado takes a more relaxed approach while staying deeply rooted in tea culture. With over 200 loose-leaf teas, it’s one of the most extensive selections in the country.
The customizable tea service includes tiers of sandwiches, scones, desserts, and savory additions like quiche.
Why go: Ideal for tea lovers who want variety without formality.
The Queen Mary Tea Room — Seattle, Washington
Warm, intimate, and consistently ranked among the best in the U.S., The Queen Mary Tea Room focuses on quality and hospitality.
House-made scones come with lemon curd and preserves, alongside classic tea sandwiches and rotating seasonal desserts. There’s also a retail shop for tea enthusiasts.
Why go: Cozy, welcoming, and reliably excellent.
Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon — New York, New York
Hidden inside a Union Square townhouse, Lady Mendl’s offers a more intimate take on afternoon tea. The prix-fixe experience unfolds over multiple courses, including soup, sandwiches, scones, and desserts.
The romantic setting and optional Champagne pairings make it especially suited for a quieter celebration.
Why go: Elegant and intimate, with a distinctly personal feel.
The Grand America Hotel — Salt Lake City, Utah
This polished tea service is one of the most refined in the western U.S. Served in a grand lobby, the experience leans classic and detail-oriented.
Expect tiered trays of sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, and beautifully executed pastries, along with seasonal tea selections.
Why go: A consistently elevated experience with a luxury touch.
The Langham Huntington — Pasadena, California
The Langham brand is synonymous with afternoon tea, and its Pasadena location delivers a standout version in a garden setting.
The menu features British-inspired sandwiches, scones, and pastries, with optional Champagne service and seasonal updates.
Why go: A globally respected tea tradition in a relaxed California setting.
The Jefferson Hotel — Richmond, Virginia
Southern elegance defines tea at The Jefferson. Served in a grand historic hotel, the experience combines classic offerings with regional touches.
Guests can expect traditional sandwiches, scones, and desserts, along with Southern-inspired sweets and expanded brunch options.
Why go: A blend of history, hospitality, and refined Southern charm.
