Tea has toppled empires, anchored royal dowries, inspired theft, and triggered mutiny. It has also, reliably, brought people together, building community in its own ways. Atlanta’s afternoon tea scene reflects that history better than most cities. This large metro’s many communities carry traditions from England, Persia, Indonesia, France, Ireland, India and others, reflecting the multi-cultural heartbeat of this town.
Here are some of the most incredible international afternoon tea experiences to be had, without leaving the metro.
Le Faucheur
Valerie Fatemi, owner and head tea sommelier, brings her popular mobile tea-party concept to a permanent home with metro Atlanta’s newest European-inspired tea room. Distinct from formal high tea, she offers afternoon tea with a curated selection of teas, classic finger sandwiches, scones with house-made clotted cream, and pastries like pavlova, all served in vintage place settings. Dietary needs are thoughtfully accommodated with vegan and gluten-free menus available by prior reservation. The parlor features milliner Elena Wittman’s designs, a piano, plush seating, and a hostess station styled after Juliet’s balcony. 4505 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Ste. 190, Atlanta, lefaucheurtearoom.com
Brasserie Margot
Set in the lavish Four Seasons Hotel in Midtown, this mid-century chic brasserie is Atlanta’s undiscovered gem. The Parisian-style weekend tea service is nicknamed “Color Me Pink”. Choose from a selection of JING teas—or coffee if that suits you more—and sit back to take in a tall tiered tray filled with house made scones; finger sandwiches like curry chicken on a croissant, tuna tartare, and turkey on sweet potato bread; chocolate covered mini-madelines, cream filled macaroons, and a decadent chocolate hazelnut ganache cake bite. 75 14th St. NE, Atlanta, brasseriemargot.com/menus/#afternoon-tea-colour-me-pink
The Ginger Room
Marked by a bright red Old English phone booth and housed in Alpharetta’s oldest home, the Skelton-Teasley House that dates back to 1856, Dr. Karl and Angela have transformed their thriving ginger juice business into a British tea room. Original pine floors anchor the Ginger Room, while British expat Karl layered the space with vintage memorabilia, from royal picture books to tiaras for special occasions. Guests can choose from a globally inspired tea list, served with tiered trays of finger sandwiches like coronation chicken and smoked salmon, scones with jam, lemon curd, and clotted cream, and an abundant selection of baked goods from local bakers. The High Tea service adds savory options such as a slice of buttery tomato pie with a small side salad. 61 Roswell St., Alpharetta. the-gingerroom.com
Gula Indonesian
Continuing a 20-year family legacy on Buford Highway, Daniel and Ninik’s family delights Atlanta with homestyle Indonesian desserts, brunch, and an artisan tea experience at Gula. The service features nearly two dozen teas sourced directly from Indonesian farmers, paired with savory bites like lemper ayam and Dutch-influenced bitterballen; and house-made sweets including Bubur Campur, Dadar Gulung, and assorted cakes, made to make you fall in love with Indonesian cuisine. Offered all week by reservation. 5177 A Buford Hwy. NE, Doraville
Tea Around Town
A lively way to see Atlanta, this mobile tea experience unfolds aboard a bright, sky-roofed bus that doubles as a moving tea room. As the city rolls by, guests enjoy tiered trays with up to 14 bites, from triple crown steak with Gruyère and tomato on rye to herbed mushroom and ricotta crostini. The Luxe Tea adds indulgences like lobster roll, caviar on blini, smoked Alaskan salmon, and extra desserts. Attentive service, a live vocalist, and an onboard restroom complete the experience. Tea Around Town is by reservations only. 212 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta, topviewtix.com/atlanta
Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party
This whimsical Grant Park tea room was founded by Katrell Christie. Eclectic décor, cozy nooks, and mismatched china set the tone for a relaxed afternoon tea featuring classic finger sandwiches, scones, and rotating baked treats. Loose-leaf teas anchor the experience, and vegetarian-friendly options are also available. Proceeds from the Learning Tea provide empowerment opportunities to women in Darjeeling and the lives of scholars in India. 753 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta, drbombays.com
Waldorf Astoria Atlanta
Set in the Belvedere Room overlooking the hotel’s English garden, this weekend tea service offers a calm, garden-facing retreat. Guests are served a curated selection of fine teas alongside thoughtfully prepared savory and sweet bites, drawing on tea traditions from around the world. The Waldorf Astoria Signature Tea presents a refined yet approachable ritual, blending heritage with a polished sense of hospitality. The service is only available by prepaid reservations. 3376 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta, opentable.com/r/waldorf-astoria-atlanta-buckhead-atlanta
Rose Valley High Tea
Take in a high tea experience with a Persian spirit in Johns Creek. Here, fragrant teas—some infused with rosewater, saffron, and pistachio—are paired with an elegant and sumptuous spread of savory bites like pomegranate walnut salad, and Persian potato pasta salad. Set in a floral, jewel-toned café, high tea features desserts like rose baklava, coffee roulette cake, and Dubai chocolate strawberry cup. Designed for celebrations or a dressed-up afternoon out, it blends classic tea structure with Middle Eastern flavors and a warm, hospitality-driven atmosphere. 6000 Medlock Bridge Pkwy. Ste. B100, Johns Creek, rosevalleysweets.com
