As soon as restaurants were allowed to reopen at partial capacity after Covid lockdown, my good friend took me to this tea room for my birthday. What a wonderful outing this was! Malaya Tea Room’s twist on its sandwiches and other food flavors, offers guests a unique tea experience. While they do offer tea, scones and desserts, it’s the sandwiches that were the most memorable! My friend and I shared the umami meatfloss with basil house spread and the curry chicken sandwiches. We absolutely loved them! The location was a bit of a drive for us, but it was well worth it! Reservations required.

Tyme for Tea is located in the historic Niles Boulevard neighborhood in Fremont. While I was waiting to be seated in the tea room section of the shop, I browsed the other side of the room which was filled with tea and scone mixes, antiques and collectibles for sale. The tea room itself felt more casual than other places I’ve been but the food was enjoyable. The tea sandwiches were heartier than the typical crustless sandwiches and the desserts were also on the larger side. I definitely didn’t leave hungry. Reservations required.

Lisa’s Tea Treasures is one of the most well-known tea rooms in the East Bay because they have multiple locations. Waitstaff dress in “Victorian” style black dresses with white pinafores. It’s a fun place to go during the holidays and to take the kids for special occasions. Some menu items vary at each location, although the decor and menu look similar. Reservations recommended.

Set in the heart of the Silicon Valley and surrounded by views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, The Rosewood Sand Hill Hotel offers a wonderful afternoon tea. The food and tea quality are what you would expect from a high-end hotel that prides itself on excellence. The price point is on the higher end, but you won’t leave disappointed. Factor in the beautiful setting and great service, this is a place I will return to celebrate a special occasion or just to treat myself. The hotel offers afternoon tea mainly on the weekends, with exceptions during various holidays throughout the year. Dress code is smart casual and reservations are required.

Besides steak and seafood, Alexander’s is known for their high quality pastries and desserts so, of course, I had to try their afternoon tea. They offer upgrades for an additional charge. Depending on how hungry you are, you may want to consider this. Scones were buttery, more cookie-like texture, served with butter and jam. As you’d expect, there was an abundance of desserts. Service was excellent. Reservations required.

Located next to Golden Gate Park, Sip Tea Room is a fantastic new find! Afternoon Tea here was well worth the money from the lovely tablescape to the freshly baked sausage rolls and scones. I could definitely tell the owners really care about food quality. It really met my tea room expectations and I know my husband would feel comfortable going here as well. I certainly will be back! Reservations required.

Redwing, Minnesota is a historic little town located along the Mississippi River. The two times we visited, we had lunch both times at Wisteria Twig, a cafe and tea room I discovered online. Because this tea room is also a cafe, the menu is more diverse, serving soup, salads, sandwiches, breakfast items, desserts and traditional afternoon tea. Neither of my kids like traditional tea sandwiches <gasp!> but they did enjoy the cafe’s panini sandwiches and I really enjoyed their salads and wraps. The cozy tea room is decorated with new and vintage items for sale mingled around the tables set for tea. The food and atmosphere were so satisfying, I hope to go back when I’m in the area. Reservations not required.

My husband surprised me with my first trip to New York City so I was excited to have afternoon tea at the iconic Plaza Hotel. A mini roast beef sandwich and lobster roll were accompanied by four lovely-looking savories. Scones arrived warm, wrapped in a white cloth, and the desserts were decadent and delicious. Sitting and sipping tea in the beautiful Palm Court made the high price tag well worth it. Smart casual dress and reservations are recommended.

If you are in Quebec City in Canada, Afternoon Tea at The Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is truly something special. From the moment you walk through the property’s gates, you are immediately transported back to 1893 when this luxury hotel was first built. Outside Place Dufferin, staff warmly welcome guests and walk them to tables lined up in front of picture windows facing Dufferin Terrace. Although the price for this Afternoon Tea is on the higher side, the food is some of the best I’ve had, and the service is impeccable. There is no dress code, but I enjoy going to the posher places dressed up a bit to embrace the full Afternoon Tea experience. Reservations required.

England has so many wonderful tea rooms, but afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason is truly special. Steeped in history since 1707, this shop has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in London. The price for the meal may seem high, but you can request more sandwiches, scones and tea at no extra charge. If you are still hungry after the pastries, there is a dessert cart filled with wonderful cakes you are welcome to select. After all the hustle and bustle of walking the hot London streets during my summer holiday, it was so nice to have a beautiful and relaxing tea with my sister. We still have very fond memories of this place. Reservations recommended.

I believe this is one of the most fabulous tea room settings I’ve ever had the pleasure to have afternoon tea. Cafe Hassui, located on the grounds of the Suiran Luxury Collection Hotel Kyoto, is located along the Hozu River. The picture windows covering one entire wall of the dining area allowed everyone at our table to fully take in the gorgeous view that was framed with trees. I couldn’t help but feel calm and serene. The service at the cafe was absolutely impeccable from the warm cloths to clean your hands before dining to the unique and beautiful food that was set before us. This was a wonderful experience! Reservations required.

My husband and I spent one night at this lovely hotel during my first trip to Scotland on our honeymoon. We enjoyed the accommodations and food so much, we decided to go back and have afternoon tea at the hotel with my husband’s Scottish family since we brought our children with us on our next trip. It turned out to be a gift to us from the family! As expected, the traditional sandwiches, scones and desserts were wonderful as we sipped perfectly steeped tea in a private dining room. I will probably keep this afternoon tea extra close to my heart. Reservations required.