If your head (and heart) is still trying to wrap itself around season two of Bridgerton then A. you’re not alone and B. this post is for you! While Austin might be more of a sweet tea kind of place, there are still plenty of places to get Bridgerton-worthy tea or tea-related treats!
So here’s the tea, on where to get tea in Austin!
First, let’s clear some things up before Queen Charlotte banishes us from society. There is “High Tea” and “Afternoon Tea”, and while they’re often confused, they are not the same. High Tea is served in the evening with meal-like foods. Afternoon Tea is the tea that is most often seen in movies. It is a casual setting, often served around 4 p.m. and is accompanied with sandwiches, scones, cakes, crumpets and more.
While it has never been proven, it’s said that the term “spill the tea” originated in the 1800s when women would sit around for afternoon tea and talk about the latest happenings in town. So sit down, grab a cup and let us spill the aTx on how you can get ready for your next afternoon tea (or Bridgerton binge).
Brentwood Social House | 1601 West Koenig Lane
Brentwood Social House serves a three-tiered stand afternoon tea. That’s three levels of traditional English sweet and savory items. Served on mismatched vintage china pieces in a casual atmosphere, the menu includes tea sandwiches, scones with butter and jam, assorted pastries and your choice of tea. Seating times are Monday through Thursday at 1 p.m. and Friday through Sunday at 2 p.m. They also offer afternoon tea to go in picnic boxes which are ready to be enjoyed just about anywhere!
The Steeping Room | 4400 North Lamar Boulevard
The Steeping Room offers everything you need for the perfect afternoon tea. They have two tea services to choose from, both including all the tea fixings you could ask for! Or you can create your own afternoon tea setup by creating your own menu from their selection of tea sandwiches, scones, tea cookies, tea cakes and, of course, tea! Best part is you can enjoy it in-store or take it home to enjoy with friends or with your TV.
Austin English Tea Company | 114 12233 Ranch Rd 620 N
It’s really in the name here! If you want a classic English afternoon tea, then this is it. Not only do they offer open afternoon tea but also special tea party events. It’s perfect for spilling the tea while you celebrate various occasions. Each service includes freshly brewed, unlimited pots of loose leaf tea and a classic three-tiered stand filled with savory and sweet offerings. Austin English Tea Company is located inside Michelle’s Patisserie. Find availability and reservation information here.
Hotel Driskill | 604 Brazos Street
Enjoy The Driskill’s long-standing tradition of afternoon tea with seating starting at 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. You will be treated to three courses of French pastries, petit fours and finger sandwiches. In addition to the three courses, you can enjoy endless tea and sparkling wine. This afternoon tea will make you truly feel like you’re in sitting down to spill some tea with the ladies of Bridgerton.
Julie Myrtille Bakery | 1023 Springdale General 1D
The Julie Myrtille Bakery offers a breakfast, brunch and afternoon tea. There are packages offered depending on time of day. If you’re not wanting a full spread you can pick up individual items. They have delicious scones, tarts, savory quiches, shortbread and more. Whether you have a sweet or savory tooth – add this to your must try list.
Zhi Tea | 1023 Springdale Road
Zhi is sustainably grown and chemically-free tea local to Austin. Almost all of the afternoon tea services listed above provide Zhi. We love their take on English Breakfast called Austin Breakfast! So if you’re looking for great tea to drink at home go straight to the source with Zhi. Zhi doesn’t offer an afternoon tea service but does offer a wider variety of teas.
Swedish Hill | 1120 West Sixth Street
You might have seen Swedish Hill on season six of Queer Eye! This Austin bakery has amazing sweet and savory scones and more. You really can’t go wrong with anything on their menu. They don’t offer an afternoon service but if you’re looking to do a DIY afternoon tea at home, then it’s the perfect spot.
La Pátisserie | 602 West Annie Street / 7301 Burnet Road
Macaroons might be french but they pair extremely well with tea. In addition scones, tea breads, cream puffs and eclairs. With two locations you really have no excuse to stop by for a treat, or five. La Pâtisserie is also a great spot for a DIY afternoon tea to enjoy at home while you binge Bridgerton (again).
And if you really want an indulgent experience, book a spa day at Omni Barton Creek. Following your services you can relax with your very own Tea Forte set up. The Mokara Spa experience is perfect for a day with the girls or a solo retreat.
Featured photo via @juliemyrtille
