5 Best High Tea in Vancouver
If you’re like us, sometimes we fancy ourselves a cup ‘o tea and snacks to enjoy our cozy afternoon. Sure, we could do that at home, but you can’t really have an authentic British tea experience without going to a proper tea room.
This is why we’ve scoured the city to find the best high tea in Vancouver, so you can indulge in a truly British tea experience.
Vancouver’s Best High Tea Spots
High tea is a popular tradition in Vancouver, known for its exquisite selection of teas and delectable treats. That’s why, on our journey to finding the best high tea in the city, we’ve assessed these establishments based on the criteria below:
1. Neverland Tea Salon
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| CRITERIA | RATING |
|---|---|
| Quality | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| Variety | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Restaurant Features | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Ambiance and Decor | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Customer Capacity | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Customer Service | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| Staff Feedback | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Responsiveness | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| Location | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Nestled in the Kitsilano neighborhood, the Neverland Tea Salon is a whimsical high tea spot that opened in 2013. The establishment is owned by Terri Tatchell and Renee Iaci, who are both recognized in the film industry.
Terri is an Oscar-nominated co-writer of District 9, and Renee is the founder of Shameless Hussy Productions, and they’re both big fans of the tipsy tea.
These teas are brewed with all natural flavors, and we found it quite impressive that they have over 36 varieties of tipsy tea. We particularly loved the signature house blend “Take Me to Neverland“.
This particular blend is a unique combination of black tea, peppermint leaves, carob, and vanilla that has a peppermint and chocolate taste.
The chefs at the Neverland Tea Salon also drew our attention, as Gordon and Candice, both experienced cooks, have received numerous accolades, which explains why the food here is so good.
In fact, many of the customers we’ve spoken with rave about the delicious and beautifully presented food at the Neverland Tea Salon.
Inside, the space clearly has a vintage vibe with a hint of elegance, as antique furniture blends with big and bright chandeliers. We also enjoyed the spaciousness of the place, and we’ll definitely be coming back here.
Pros
- Accessible location
- Vintage and elegant space
Cons
- Only 36 varieties of tea
Customer Reviews
Excellent selection of tea and food
“If you love High Tea, you will love Neverland Cafe. Excellent selection of teas and great options for food. We have been there several times and the food and service are always excellent…”
-Tony D.
Gorgeous vibe and great service
“Gorgeous vibe and great service! I attended the Spring high tea with a friend and we really enjoyed the atmosphere and the food…”
-Brooke L.
2. Adonia Tea House
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| CRITERIA | RATING |
|---|---|
| Quality | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| Variety | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Restaurant Features | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Ambiance and Decor | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Customer Capacity | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Customer Service | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| Staff Feedback | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| Responsiveness | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Location | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
The Adonia Tea House, aptly named after the Greek god renowned for unparalleled beauty, was established in 2003 by Ping Chou. It’s located in the West Side neighborhood and is very accessible via bus.
The tea house offers 60 loose leaf tea varieties. However, what truly distinguishes this establishment is its commitment to catering to a diverse range of dietary preferences and restrictions.
In addition to their extensive tea collection, they proudly offer an array of gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free tea options, which makes them an ideal high tea space for people with dietary restrictions or preferences.
When it comes to food, Adonia Tea House has truly elevated its game, presenting a diverse array of delectable options, including soups, salads, sandwiches, and desserts.
The signature Tiramisu at this establishment is truly noteworthy, as its bittersweet chocolate flavor harmoniously enhances the richness of the tea selection.
Upon entering the tea house, we couldn’t help but notice the serene and tranquil ambiance that permeates the space. Inside is a display of antique furniture, fine bone china, and floral patterns that adorn the walls.
All in all, I think it’s safe to say we’ll be coming back here at the Adonia Tea House, as we think it offers one of the best high teas in Vancouver.
Pros
- Has gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free tea options
- Wide array of food options
Cons
- Some complaints about serving time
Customer Reviews
Delicious food
“I loved this little high tea spot! I went here with a girlfriend for my birthday brunch and we had the Afternoon Tea. The food was delicious…”
-Meliza G.
Favorite place for high tea
“This is my favorite place to go for high tea! I have tried a couple of different ones recently and I must say this one is the best!…”
-Angela L.
3. La Petite Cuillère
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| CRITERIA | RATING |
|---|---|
| Quality | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Variety | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Restaurant Features | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| Ambiance and Decor | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Customer Capacity | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| Customer Service | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Staff Feedback | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Responsiveness | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Location | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
In Mount Pleasant sits La Petite Cuillère, a quaint tea room established in 2012. This restaurant offers a traditional English tea service, where they serve house-blend teas with sweet and savory food.
The extensive integration of tea elements into nearly every food item on their menu greatly impressed us. Another notable advantage is their ability to accommodate a wide range of dietary restrictions.
La Petite Cuillère also offers caffeine-free teas alongside their black and green tea collections. However, what satisfied our taste was Lemon Zinger Mint Tea, as it was very refreshing.
The food here is also exceptional, as the English influence is very much evident in the dishes they serve, such as Panna Cotta, scones, quiches, and puff pastries.
The decor of La Petite Cuillère is also lovely, with velvet fuchsia chairs, drapey curtains, and mismatched decor that faintly resembles a cozy English cottage. Although the space is quite small, it does feel cozy and inviting.
All in all, La Petite Cuillère definitely offers one of the best high tea experiences in Vancouver. You get the full English tea experience, complete with delicious treats and a nostalgic atmosphere.
We also appreciate that they’ve got free underground parking for their customers, which is a rare find in the busy downtown area.
Pros
- Offers caffeine-free teas
- Tea elements integrated in food items
- Free underground parking
Cons
- 90 min seating policy for groups of 16 or less
Customer Reviews
Memorable decor
“Surprisingly this place had delicious items to pair with the tea. The decor of the resto is eccentric and definitely a place you’ll remember…”
-Patricia C.
Delicious desserts and great ambiance
“It was my first time here. I absolutely loved it. The service was great the deserts were delicious. Peaceful ambiance. Felt so royalty and was satisfied. Will come again for sure.”
-Soho B.
4. Secret Garden Tea Company
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| CRITERIA | RATING |
|---|---|
| Quality | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Variety | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| Restaurant Features | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Ambiance and Decor | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Customer Capacity | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Customer Service | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| Staff Feedback | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Responsiveness | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| Location | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
A cherished fixture within the vibrant Kerrisdale neighborhood, the Secret Garden Tea Company has been a go-to place for high tea since 1995.
Here you’ll find black, green, herbal, and rooibos teas. Inside, you’re greeted with a take-out bakery, an assortment of teas, and a dining area for high tea.
One of the distinguishing features of the Secret Garden Tea Company lies not only in their themed high tea experiences but also in their thoughtful offering of children’s high tea options.
We believe that this makes them the ideal high tea spot for families, as they cater to both adults and children.
The ambience of the place is very 50s themed, with mismatched cups and plates, carpeted floors, and wooden floors and furniture, giving it a classic Victorian look.
We’re just a bit iffy that they require customers to book high tea reservations as it tends to get quite busy. But we did appreciate the convenience of the process, as it allowed us to effortlessly reserve a table and place our order online in advance.
Overall, we’re happy with what we’ve seen, as far as high tea goes. If you ever find yourself in Kerrisdale, the Secret Garden Tea Company is definitely a must-visit.
Pros
- 28 years in business
- Offers children’s high tea options
Cons
- Reservation required
Customer Reviews
Aesthetic place and amazing food
“Place was so aesthetic! A bit antique looking with cute tea cups and decor. Food was amazing and in perfect sizes and portions…”
-Jessica Q.
Affordable high tea place
“Secret Garden is an awesome spot to stop if you’re looking for a British High Tea experience. It is definitely a “treat” for those who might be budget-conscious…”
-Michael W.
5. H Tasting Lounge
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| CRITERIA | RATING |
|---|---|
| Quality | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| Variety | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Restaurant Features | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Ambiance and Decor | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Customer Capacity | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Customer Service | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Staff Feedback | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Responsiveness | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| Location | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Afternoon tea at the H Tasting Lounge is held on weekends from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. What we found most captivating is the England and France inspired decor of the space, influenced by the Victorian and Belle Époque eras.
Upon taking our seats, we had to look around to see if we had been transported back in time, as the sweets were elegantly presented on a golden Ferris wheel.
The sweets we liked were the pistachio and cassis torte and the “Eton Mess”, just because we’re suckers for sweets that are not too sweet. Regardless, we highly recommend their other options.
As for tea, the H Tasting Lounge has partnered with O-Five Rare Tea, which is a Vancouver-based tea company that sources rare tea from farmers in remote villages.
They have black, white, green, tisane, and oolong tea. But the star of the show for us is the Westin Bayshore Signature Breakfast Blend, as it was a delectably delicious drink with a hint of citrus, malt, and nuts.
Inside, the ambience is a mixture of modern and classic details, with luxurious decor and yellow highlights. The H Tasting Lounge, in our opinion, is a particularly elegant space, which we liked.
Ultimately, we think H Tasting Lounge is a fine choice if you’re looking for a more lavish high tea experience.
Pros
- Wide rare tea collection
- Luxurious decor
Cons
- Relatively pricey
Customer Reviews
Beautifully-plated food
“The plating of the dishes were so beautiful. The seafood linguine was perfect. The burrata and prosciutto was delicious but could have came with more bread.”
-Allie
Many dietary options
“Our most recent visit was for a high tea afternoon service. Tea and food were delicious, appreciated gluten free and dairy free options…”
-Nikolina V.
FAQs about High Tea in Vancouver
So there you have it! We hope that these high tea spots in Vancouver satisfied your cravings for a lovely afternoon tea experience.
But hey, if you’re looking for your next stop in the evening, it may be a good idea to grab a glass of wine, and here’s an article on the best wine shops in Vancouver.