High tea might feel worlds away from the Southwest, but Phoenix proves that an authentic tea experience can thrive anywhere. From a 1920s Presidential Pullman train car to a 130-year-old historic home, these tearooms are worth sharing for their spin on a centuries-old tradition.
So put your pinkies up for seven of the best high tea across Phoenix. Whether you’re craving homemade scones, imported loose-leaf teas, or an afternoon spent in an elegant setting, these destinations deliver a delightful excuse to sip and savor the moment.
The English Rose Tea Room
Carefree’s The English Rose Tea Room welcomes guests to a space reminiscent of an English country home, with proper china, tiered trays, and delights made from scratch. Afternoon tea offerings include finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with cream and preserves, seasonal cakes and pastries, and imported loose-leaf teas.
It’s an afternoon tea served in a setting that’s distinctly feminine with a whimsical touch, inspired by the owner’s English heritage. “For us, afternoon tea is not just about food, it’s about preserving and sharing a cherished piece of British culture and tradition,” said owner Jo Gemmill. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are preferred. 201 Easy St., Carefree, carefreetea.com
The Phoenician
For a traditional English tea service served in an elegant resort setting, this one takes the dainty tea cake. Select from a menu of all organic loose-leaf teas, paired with delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones served with Devonshire cream and lemon curd, and housemade pastries, all made fresh daily.
Pianist Lisa Pressman plays live music for guests, setting a pleasant ambiance. Gluten-free and vegan menus are available with advanced notice, and reservations are required for Thursday to Sunday time slots. 6000 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale, marriott.com
The Farish House
Step inside one of Downtown Phoenix’s historic brick homes, circa 1899, a space with good, creaky floors, a front parlor with period furniture, and floral-themed fine china. It’s an idyllic setting to sit and enjoy a cuppa. This family-run operation offers tea service in three courses. Start with homemade finger sandwiches made on loaves from Noble Bread, quiche, and Petit Wellingtons. Next, sample a rotating line up of scones, one sweet, one savory, with English clotted cream and jam.
Finally, expect four to five desserts, including macaroons and berry tartlets. The tea menu features classic black, white, and green teas, as well as herbal tisanes, all served with cream and sugar. Teatime is on Saturday afternoons from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Reservations are required, and dietary restrictions are considered with advanced notice. 816 N. 3rd St., Phoenix, thefarishhouse.com
The Spicery Tearoom
Served on vintage tableware, guests can choose from a three, four, or five-course tea menu. Specialties include egg and chicken salad, mini quiche, shortbreads, and scones served with Chantilly cream and lemon curd. Finish with chocolate-dipped madeleines. As for the tea, you have 15 types to pick from, and several were blended just for The Spicery.
Inside one of Glendale’s oldest Victorian homes from 1895, tea time is a 40-year tradition, offered six days a week. “It is a true step back in time,” said owner Lorraine Zomok. 7141 N. 59th Ave., Glendale, 1895spicery.com
Platform 18
Platform 18, a speakeasy and cocktail lounge resembling a 1920s Presidential Pullman train car, brings a creative edge to traditional tea time with the addition of storytelling. Guests can expect thoughtfully selected tea, house-made pastries, and savory bites presented on classic tiered trays.
“The timing of service, tea pours, presentation changes, and guest interaction are all carefully orchestrated to allow people to fully settle into the experience and enjoy meaningful time together,” said Cortnie Cozeck, vice president of operations. Tea service is done seasonally and at various times, so check the website for more details. 3626 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, bartershake.com
The Pink Door Tea House
This family-friendly tea house in downtown Glendale has been in business for more than 30 years. The menu features a generous loose-leaf tea selection, as well as house-made assorted finger sandwiches, chocolate-dipped strawberries, mini pastries, fresh fruit parfaits, and sweet scones served with Devonshire cream and lemon curd.
Guests can also order heartier bites off a regular menu. It’s a maximalist tea lover’s dream, with floral tablecloths, tea-themed decorations, and silk flowers galore. The outdoor patio also offers a charming setting when the weather permits. Themed teas occur throughout the year. Walk-ins welcome.7153 N. 59th Ave., Glendale, thepinkdoorteahouse.com
Drink Me! Tea Room
If you’re on a gluten-free or vegan diet, this Tempe-based teahouse caters to both. In fact, all the foods served are plant blessed. On the menu you’ll find a selection of savory sandwiches and sweet desserts, all served with your choice of organic, fragrant tea.
Special Tea Cocktails are also available, featuring premium spirits and teas infused into syrups. Bonus: The decorative backdrops and special themed events offer plenty of photo opportunities. Reservations required. 1730 E. Warner Rd., #5, Tempe, drinkmetearoom.com
