Afternoon tea may be a British tradition, but these fabulous places will entice you with tasty teas, sandwiches, and desserts you won’t want to pass up. See AFM’s best places for high tea, and make a reservation just in time for Mother’s Day.
Arizona Biltmore
Visit the timelessly elegant Arizona Biltmore for a high tea that won't disappoint. Tea will be served in the lobby with a menu consisting of five sandwiches, four desserts, and two pastries to choose from, while a selection of teas will be presented to complement each flavor. The Arizona Biltmore will offer gluten-free, vegetarian, dairy-free and vegan options with advanced notice. Seating is offered at noon and at 2 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. $39 per guest plus gratuity. Reservations are required; call 602.381.7632. Learn more at arizonabiltmore.com.
The Phoenician
Honoring the English tradition of afternoon tea is The Phoenician, where they host an amazing sample of teas, treats, and more in the Lobby Tea Court. Full tea includes finger sandwiches, scones with Devonshire cream and preserves, pastries, and a selection of find blends, guests have many options to dine in this fine resort. Reservations are required, so call 480.423.2530. High tea is offered Saturdays and Sundays. The Phoenician offers Full Tea and Grand Royal Tea packages. Visit the website to learn more at thephoenician.com
Kimberly Ann's Tea Room & Cafe
Located in Historic Downtown Glendale, Kimberly Ann's Tea Room & Cafe is the perfect place to visit for afternoon high tea. Open from Monday through Saturday, this tea room serves scones, teas, and delectable salads from quiche garden combinations to strawberry walnut. You may want to consider this gorgeous location for a special Mother's Day outing, as they are hosting a three-day High Tea event in May just for the occasion. Call 623.934.1106 for reservations. kimberlyannstearoom.com.
TeaTime Scottsdale
As a leading purveyor of fine loose leaf teas in Old Town Scottsdale, TeaTime stuns customers with its wide selection of locally made products that appeal to both visitors and natives alike. TeaTime offers more than 90 varieties of tea, from herbal blends to greens, blacks, and more. The store offers events where attendees can learn about the benefits of tea, how to pair teas with certain foods, and how to make your own. This past month, TeaTime has been offering high tea every Saturday from 2-3 p.m., where customers can sample a selection of teas as well as enjoy desserts for $10 per guest. You can even make a reservation to host your own high tea event at their beautiful location in Old Town. Visit teatimescottsdale.com for more information.
The Ritz-Carlton, Phoenix
Enjoy a classic experience for high tea at The Ritz-Carlton, Phoenix. With a traditional English afternoon tea presentation, you won't want to miss the delicious treats prepared by the chefs at this outstanding hotel. Their personal sommelier, Jeffrey Hattrick, specializes in creating customized tea experiences for each individual guest. The lavish setting is the perfect recluse from the Arizona sun, with live musical entertainment and fresh seasonal blends. High tea is offered Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. See ritzcarlton.com for more information.
