Tea time traditions: Best afternoon tea spots in the Valley
From dainty desserts to cozy tea rooms, here are a few of my favorite spots in the Valley for afternoon tea.
When I was little, my grandma would take me to a holiday tea around Christmas time and my birthday. It was always my favorite part of the year. Not only did I get to pick out a fancy dress and wear sparkly shoes, but I also got to spend uninterrupted time with my grandma—sipping tea (with lots of sugar), eating cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches, and trying all kinds of special desserts.
My grandma passed away a little over three years ago, but I still think about our tea times often. These days, I love going to tea with friends and carrying on her love for the tradition and quiet sophistication of it all. There’s something so delicate and lovely about afternoon tea; perhaps it’s the thought that goes into each course, or how special it makes you feel.
I love that it forces you to slow down and really savor each dish. I love the way the sandwiches are carefully cut, the way the desserts are tiny yet rich, and how you can sip champagne right alongside a cup of tea. And I love that I feel just as special now as an adult as I did when I was a little girl.
Here are some of my favorite spots to visit in and around Phoenix.
1. The Spicery
Tea time: Monday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Price range: $30 – $35 per person, $21 for children
It’s sugar, spice, and everything nice at The Spicery. This charming teahouse in Glendale offers a delightful three-course tea experience with a cozy, vintage vibe. Reservations are required at least two days in advance, and you’ll want to set aside 90 minutes to enjoy the full experience. The menu includes a basic adult tea, or you can upgrade to the Duchess or Royal Tea. There’s also a special children’s tea designed just for younger guests. All options come with freshly baked tea sandwiches, scones, and specialty desserts made fresh every morning.
In addition to their daily afternoon tea, The Spicery hosts monthly “Princess Tea Parties” on select Sundays throughout the year. It’s a chance for little ones to step into a real-life fairytale, complete with crafts, games, songs, and quality time with a visiting princess. Reservations are required.
2. English Rose Tea Room
Tea time: Tuesday – Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Friday 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday 10:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Price range: $24 – $46 per person, $16 per child
Carefree’s English Rose Tea Room is a must for any tea enthusiast. Put on your best tea hat and enjoy this authentic, beautifully decorated space filled with whimsical pinks, florals, and all things tea. Forgot your tea hat at home? No worries, they have a bin of beautifully elaborate hats you can borrow for your afternoon tea.
The formal afternoon tea includes a pot of tea and a three-tiered presentation of sandwiches, scones, and petit fours. If you’re looking for something lighter, consider ordering the Cream Tea, which includes tea and two homemade vanilla scones, complete with preserves and Devon cream. More of a sweet tooth? Try the “Just Dessert,” which includes tea, scones, and a variety of delicate petit fours. For the kiddos, there’s the “Nursery Tea,” catered to young taste buds.
3. Drink Me Tea Room
Tea time: Thursday – Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Price range: $42 – $64
Head over to Drink Me! Tea Room in Tempe for a “modern twist on afternoon tea.” While the name nods to “Alice in Wonderland,” the space has a charm all its own, though they do occasionally offer Alice-themed teas on special days. This eccentric and unique spot is especially great for anyone with dietary restrictions, as all of their treats are completely vegan and gluten-free. Drink Me! offers several themed tea experiences. Choose from their most popular Full Experience Afternoon Tea, dive into a story with the Literary Tea, sip a cocktail during Tipsy Tea, go savory with the Double Savory Tea, or indulge in the Sweets Tray.
Due to high demand, reservations are required, and costumes are highly encouraged.
4. The Phoenician
Tea time: Thursday – Sunday, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Price range: 100+ per person
If you’re up for spending a bit more, head to the iconic Phoenician hotel in Scottsdale. Known for hosting one of the most elegant and refined afternoon teas in the area, the service here is top-notch; you’ll truly feel like royalty. As you sip your tea and enjoy a spread of finger sandwiches, fresh scones, and delicate desserts, you’ll be surrounded by a relaxed and upscale atmosphere, complete with a live pianist and resort views. The Full Afternoon Tea includes your choice of tea and a three-course meal, but you can also elevate the experience with one of their enhancements: the Royal Tea Enchantment, Grand Royal Tea Enhancement, Grand Royal Rosé Tea Enhancement, or the Royal Osetra Caviar Enhancement. Each upgrade comes with wine pairings for every course and adds a special touch, perfect for a special occasion or simply treating yourself.
5. The Pink Door Tea House
Tea time: Tuesday – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Price range: $24 – $40 per person, $20 per kid
It’s pinkies up at The Pink Door Tea House, a charming spot that’s perfect for both kids and adults. The whimsical atmosphere is welcoming, fun, and totally Instagram-worthy, and the kind, attentive staff makes the experience even better. The menu is extensive, creative, and full of flavor. You can choose from options like the Classic High Tea, Elegant High Tea, Garden High Tea, or one of their Tea Luncheons. And they didn’t forget the little ones. The Kid’s Prince and Princess High Tea is designed just for younger guests with royal taste buds. This place stays busy, so be sure to book a reservation in advance.
6. The Quirky Royal Tea Room
Tea time: Thursday – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Price range: $45 – $65
Despite its name, The Quirky Royal Tea Room serves up a traditional afternoon tea experience. Owned and run by an Englishman raised with the tradition of daily tea time, a visit here feels like a quick trip across the pond. One of the highlights? The secret scone recipe was passed down from the tea room’s very own Auntie Vera. It’s a must-try. Alongside the scones, you’ll enjoy savory tea sandwiches, quiches, and a selection of sweet treats. Choose from Tea for Two, Mommy or Daddy Tea and Me, or Tea for Three.
7. Crowning Glory Tea Room
Tea time: Saturday, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Price range: $45+
The Crowning Glory Tea Room offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience, thanks to the variety of themed parlors you can choose from. Step into spaces like the Lisieux Parlor, Mary’s Garden, Polska Parlor, New York City Parlor, or Assisi Parlor, each one designed to transport you somewhere new for your afternoon tea. You can reserve a table or book an entire parlor, making it an ideal spot for celebrating special occasions. Expect unlimited tea along with a spread of desserts, scones, fruit, salads, and sandwiches. With so many unique spaces to explore, you’ll want to come back again and again for a fresh (but just as lovely) experience.
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