The nearly two hundred year old British tradition of afternoon tea may not be widespread in the United States, but you can still enjoy it here in Washington D.C.
Here are a few spots to try afternoon tea. Typically, afternoon tea is a set price per person with a variety of finger sandwiches, desserts, and snacks; however, menus will vary.
We recommend making reservations in advance, especially around holidays, and that you check websites for hours, as they can vary.
Formal Tea
Peacock Alley in The Willard Hotel | 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW (near the White House)
- https://washington.intercontinental.com/food-drink/peacock-alley-tea/
- Price: $78 per adult or $90 with a glass of champagne | $55 per child (3-12 years of age)
- Hours: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. seating
One of the oldest and most luxurious hotels in Washington D.C., it’s no wonder the afternoon tea at Peacock Alley in The Willard Hotel is considered one of the best in the city. This is especially popular during the Christmas holidays.
Peacock Alley at the Waldorf Astoria DC | 1100 Pennsylvania Ave NW (at the Old Post Office)
- https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dcawawa-waldorf-astoria-washington-dc/dining/peacock-alley/?htmlMenu4ActiveTab=0
- Price: $90 per adult or $105 with a glass of champagne
- Hours: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – 12:00 p.m. and 3 p.m. seating
Another Peacock Alley, but this time at the Waldorf Astoria in the atrium of the Old Post Office tower. You can look up and see the clock tower (and we recommend taking the tour to the top while you're there.
St. Regis Hotel | 923 16th St NW (near the White House)
This historic hotel near the White House has a history of serving dignitaries and celebrities. Changing with the seasons, their afternoon tea is served in their opulent lobby.
- https://www.opentable.com/r/the-st-regis-dc-afternoon-tea-washington
- Price: $79 per person, excluding tax & gratuity.
- Hours: Thursday - Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4:45pm.
The Tavern at Henley Park Hotel | 926 Massachusetts Ave NW (Mount Vernon Square)
With its English Tudor architecture, this is a marvelous spot to enjoy the atmosphere along with your afternoon tea. The Tavern also offers a range of tea menus at different price points.
- https://www.henleypark.com/afternoon-tea
- Price: $45-70 per person
- Hours: Afternoon Tea is served Monday - Thursday from 3PM-5PM and Friday - Sunday from 12:00PM - 4:00PM
- Reservations Required
Ladurée | 3060 M St NW (Georgetown)
Famous for their macarons, this Georgetown favorite is one to try. Enjoy the Parisian-inspired decor and make sure to take a few macarons home with you.
- https://www.laduree.us/526116/laduree-washington-m-street.html
- Price: $35-$120
- Hours: 10am-6pm Monday - Saturday
Salamander Hotel | 1330 Maryland Ave SW (Wharf)
This hotel was previously known as the Mandarin Oriental. This is a perfect place to enjoy afternoon tea if you’re exploring the Wharf neighborhood.
- https://www.salamanderdc.com/dining/overview#the-lounge
- Price: $89 per person
- Hours: Seatings 1:30 pm & 3:30 pm (Fri - Sun)
- Reservations Required
Casual Tea Options
If a formal afternoon tea isn’t quite your style, there are some less formal options where you can still enjoy a nice cuppa.
Teaism | Multiple Locations (Dupont Circle, Penn Quarter/Chinatown, near the White House)
While they don’t offer an official afternoon tea service, this local, woman-owned business with three locations around the city allows you to craft your own a la carte afternoon tea, including delicious scones.
Valley Brook Tea | 2015 Massachusetts Ave NW (Dupont Circle)
For something with an even older tradition, try some authentic Chinese tea at Valley Brook Tea. They also sell teaware for your home.
