10 Best Spots for High Tea in Austin

Written By Habiba Abdou

Austin, Texas, known for its vibrant live music scene and thriving food culture, also offers an array of delightful high tea experiences. As this city continues to grow and attract visitors from near and far, one might wonder where to find the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon spent indulging in the elegant British tradition of high tea. Luckily, Austin presents a variety of charming locations to share this experience with friends and family.

From historic downtown hotels to quaint teahouses dotted throughout the city, there is no shortage of venues to savor finger sandwiches, delectable pastries, and an assortment of fine teas. Whether one chooses a posh and opulent setting or an intimate and cozy atmosphere, these top ten spots embrace the spirit of high tea and provide an unforgettable experience for all who partake in this delightful tradition. So, prepare to embark on a journey through the best high tea locations in Austin as we explore their offerings and personalized touches that make each destination stand out.

Historic High Tea Destinations

The Driskill

The Driskill is a historic hotel in Austin that offers an elegant and luxurious high tea experience. Established in 1886, the hotel provides a charming ambiance that makes it a perfect destination for those looking to enjoy high tea. The menu includes a selection of tea sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and an assortment of pastries and petit fours. The Driskill's tea services are available during special events and holidays, such as Mother's Day and the holiday season.

Guests at The Driskill can choose from a wide range of premium teas, which are accompanied by beautiful table settings and attentive service. The hotel's Romanesque architecture and opulent interior make for a truly memorable high tea experience in Austin.

Hotel Ella

Another historic gem for high tea lovers in Austin is Hotel Ella. This boutique hotel, situated in a renovated 1900s-era mansion, offers a quintessential high tea experience, complete with finger sandwiches, pastries, and a variety of specially-selected teas. The high tea is served in Hotel Ella's Goodall's Kitchen, an elegant dining space that feature's the mansion's original exposed brick walls and lavish drapery.

With offerings like cucumber and dill cream cheese sandwiches, lemon and lavender scones, and a selection of delicate French pastries, Hotel Ella's high tea menu is a delightful mix of traditional and modern flavors. Hotel Ella proudly sources its teas locally from Austin-based companies, and offers special tea events throughout the year to showcase its top-notch tea selections.

Elegant Tea Rooms

Brentwood Social House

Brentwood Social House is a charming and cozy spot for enjoying high tea in Austin. This European-inspired café offers a laid-back atmosphere for sipping tea and indulging in delicious pastries. The high tea menu includes a variety of freshly-baked scones, quiches, finger sandwiches, and mini desserts, served with a pot of your choice of loose leaf tea.

The décor of the tea room reflects a perfect blend of modern and rustic elements, making it an ideal location for gatherings with friends or family. The knowledgeable staff ensures that the tea selection is carefully curated to accommodate a wide range of tastes and preferences.

The Steeping Room

The Steeping Room, located in the bustling Domain area, is a contemporary tea shop that focuses on providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. This tea room is renowned for its extensive collection of over 100 loose leaf teas from around the world and its commitment to using only the highest quality ingredients.

Customers can choose from a selection of affordable high tea packages that cater to various tastes and dietary requirements. The menu features assorted tea sandwiches, artisanal cheeses, freshly-baked pastries, and more. This establishment is known for accommodating dietary restrictions like vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options.

The elegant and modern atmosphere of The Steeping Room makes it an ideal spot for a break from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding area. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to provide expert tea recommendations and helpful tips for brewing the perfect cup at home.

Unique Experiences

The Art of Tea

The Art of Tea is a one-of-a-kind experience in Austin, offering patrons an immersive and interactive journey into the world of tea. As you enter the establishment, you are greeted by a knowledgeable staff member who will guide you through the various steps of tea preparation and brewing. Guests can choose from an extensive selection of teas, including rare and exotic varieties, while sampling delicious pastries and sandwiches.

This spot aims to educate visitors about the cultural and historical aspects of tea. Throughout the experience, guests are encouraged to ask questions and engage with the tea experts on hand to broaden their understanding of this ancient beverage.

Tea Rex

At Tea Rex, high tea takes on a lighthearted and whimsical atmosphere. This charming spot is decorated with playful dinosaur-themed artwork and teaware, creating a unique and enjoyable experience for patrons of all ages. Tea Rex offers an assortment of quality teas, including special blends inspired by the prehistoric theme.

The high tea menu at Tea Rex includes an array of mouth-watering treats and light bites, such as dinosaur-shaped cookies, mini sandwiches, and scones served with clotted cream and jam. The friendly staff take great pride in catering to special dietary requirements, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a delightful afternoon tea.

In addition to the delicious food and beverages, Tea Rex frequently hosts themed events, such as "Jurassic Black Tie" and "Dino Hat Luncheons", making it an unforgettable destination for high tea enthusiasts seeking a unique experience in Austin.

Vegan-Friendly Options

Zhi Tea

Zhi Tea is well-known for its extensive tea collection, boasting a selection of more than 100 organic tea varieties. The establishment offers a vegan afternoon tea experience that comes with both savory and sweet treats, perfect for anyone craving delicious meat-free options. Patrons can relax in the cosy atmosphere and admire the tasteful decor while sipping on a pot of fine tea.

Some of the vegan delicacies include:

  • Mini vegetable quiches

  • Cucumber sandwiches

  • Coconut macaroons

  • Chocolate truffles

Casa de Luz

Casa de Luz is a unique dining spot in Austin that offers a plant-based menu with a focus on healthy and sustainable living. The restaurant provides a community-style afternoon tea experience where guests can savor delicious vegan foods at communal tables, fostering a sense of camaraderie.

The menu varies daily, made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring every visit offers a new culinary adventure. Sample selections could include:

  • Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables

  • Chickpea hummus on seed crackers

  • House-made herbal tea blends

Visiting either Zhi Tea or Casa de Luz will undoubtedly satisfy plant-based food enthusiasts looking to enjoy high tea in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

Kid-Friendly High Teas

Central Market

Central Market offers a delightful spot for families to experience high tea together. The friendly staff and open space create a comfortable atmosphere that encourages both adults and children to relax and enjoy themselves. The tea selection is impressive, catering to a variety of preferences and tastes, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to find a tea they enjoy.

Featuring an assortment of finger sandwiches, pastries, and sweets, Central Market's high tea menu is designed to suit even the pickiest of eaters. Parents will appreciate the attention to detail, as the offerings are crafted with flavorful ingredients and beautiful presentation. In addition to the dining experience, Central Market also offers an entertaining environment for children, including live music, cooking classes, and a playground area.

Mozart's Coffee Roasters

Looking for a beautiful lakeside setting for high tea? Look no further than Mozart's Coffee Roasters. Situated on the shores of Lake Austin, this establishment provides a serene atmosphere for families to indulge in high tea while enjoying the picturesque views. Mozart's is known for its extensive collection of teas, which include organic and locally-sourced blends, ensuring top-notch quality and variety.

Offering a delectable array of finger foods, pastries, and desserts, Mozart's high tea menu is sure to satisfy children and adults alike. Their expertly crafted treats, such as almond croissants and gourmet cake balls, showcase the bakery's commitment to creating mouthwatering delicacies for all ages to enjoy.

The outdoor patio at Mozart's is an ideal setting for children to play and explore, with ample space to stretch their legs. The soothing sounds of the lake and the enchanting garden surroundings create an inviting environment for families to unwind and engage in meaningful conversations over high tea.

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Habiba Abdou
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