Are you on the lookout for the best high tea places in Ottawa? Then look no further!
Bachelorette party? Birthday? Baby shower? Family gathering? Romantic date? Or even just a ladies afternoon, whatever the occasion, high tea is always a good idea!
Also a few of these also offer kids afternoon tea, so that’ll be noted below! We’ll get into a roundup of all the top spots in and around the city!
What is high tea?
High tea, also known as afternoon tea, is a traditional British meal that is typically served in the late afternoon. High tea is a more substantial meal than regular afternoon tea, and typically consists of savory dishes such as sandwiches, scones, and cakes, as well as tea and other beverages. High tea originated in the 19th century as a meal for working-class people, and was typically served at around six o’clock in the evening. Today, high tea is often seen as a luxury experience, and is often served in hotels and tea rooms.
What does high tea usually include?
- Premium teas
- Scones and sandwiches
- Sweet treats like cakes
Please note that prices included or availability may have fluctuated since publication.
Zoe’s Chateau Laurier
Cost: $76 per person, weekdays / $79 per person, weekends
Kids afternoon tea: $38 per child (under 12) on weekdays and $39 per child (under 12) on weekends.
Time: 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM, daily. Holiday tea usually runs from December 1 until January 5. Booking ahead is needed.
Location: Downtown Ottawa
Without a doubt high tea at the Chateau Laurier is the most renowned place in Ottawa in arguably the most beautiful building in the city (I mean it’s the closest thing to a castle you’ll get!). On the bucket list of experiences in Ottawa for most. I’m a sucker for unique teas and the blooming tea has to be one of my faves!
Another unique experience to be had at Zoe’s is the prince and princess tea for children!
Quelque Chose Pâtisserie
Cost: $40 per person (classic option)
Kids option: $25 per child
Time: Tuesday to Friday from 11:00am to 4:00pm and Saturday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Location: Westboro and Vanier
Note that while they have several locations, afternoon tea is only served in Westboro or Vanier. You can also opt for a to-go box, but unless you’re in a rush it’s worth it to enjoy at this beautiful venue. They have an extensive tea selection and on top of the usual high tea finishings like finger sandwiches and scones, they are most famous for their delicious macaroons!
They also offer vegetarian and gluten free options as well.
The Vanitea Room
Cost: $45 per person
Kids afternoon tea: $20 per child
Time: Wednesday-Friday 10am to 3pm and Saturday-Sunday 10am to 5pm
Location: Centertown
A charming spot with beautiful decor, the vanitea room is a great option to consider to satisfy your upscale high tea craving! With traditional scones, sweets and savories to munch on and an assortment of Sloane teas to choose from, you can’t go wrong! Vanitea also offers a vegan and gluten free option for afternoon tea. Be sure to check the menu as it may seasonally change!
Carmelito Cafe
Cost: $42.95 per person
Children’s high tea: $29.95 per child
Time: Monday to Saturday 9am to 9pm. Sunday 9am to 8pm. Require 48 hours notice to booking,
Location: Little Italy and Barhaven
With two locations and options for high tea, Carmelito is worth trying out! Their beautiful decor and swoon worthy pastries make this a must to add to your Ottawa high tea bucket list! They also offer a premium afternoon tea experience.
Cafe Cristal
Time: Must be booked two days in advance.
Location: Barhaven
The vibe and decor here will transport you straight to Europe! They don’t have a website, but you can get more details on their high tea offerings on instagram.
Billings Estate Museum
Time: Tea is offered in summertime as ‘Tea on the lawn’. Booking in advance in required.
Location: Alta Vista
Enjoy your afternoon tea in a unique historic outdoor setting in the summertime, how cute! Traditional Christmas takeaway boxes are also available typically in December which you are able to pick up to bring your high tea experience home!
Ale Amberwood
Cost: $45 per person
Children’s afternoon tea: $28 per child (under 8)
Time: Available monthly on select dates on Sundays. 48 hours booking notice required.
Location: Stittsville
A favorite (and arguably the only option right now) for high tea in the west end of the city is at Ale! With premium tea options from Tease tea available as well as in-house made scones and sweets, it just sounds mouth watering already!
Tea & Cake Room
Cost: $24 per person
Time: Tuesday through Saturday 10am-4pm, and Sunday 11am-4pm. Reservations recommended.
Location: Almonte
For a great high tea option at a quaint spot in Almonte, look no further! A cozy spot with very vintage decor vibe. They serve a delicious offerings of sandwiches, savouries and sweet treats all on the iconic tiered platter. This is a great budget friendly high tea option, that still delivers on the high tea experience!
If you’re looking for just a place to grab scones or other popular tea time favorites, try:
For other ideas of what to do in Ottawa:
- Check out this complete guide to Ottawa (with tips from a local)
- The top instagrammable spots in Ottawa to get your photo taken
- The best halal restaurants in Ottawa to try out
- Top souvenirs to buy in Canada
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