Where to Indulge in High-End Afternoon Tea in Ottawa Like a Noble From Bridgerton
Dearest Readers,
It appears there are many of you who have been clandestinely scouring the streets, eager to uncover the latest gossip on where to indulge in a refined afternoon tea experience in the city.
Rest assured, gentle reader, this author is well-versed in procuring the finest morsel of information to assist you. After all, gossip is my specialty, and it would be a total waste if tea were just for drinking!
Without further ado, here are the most beguiling afternoon tea locations, ones even the queen herself didn’t know about.
Yours Truly,
Lady Whistledown (alright, not really, but I’ve got my ear to the ground!)
1. The Vanitea Room
Website: https://thevanitearoomteasalon.com
Address: 551 Somerset St W
Contact details: +1 613-695-8832
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM
The Vanitea Room exudes a sophisticated ambiance, recreating the way Europeans enjoyed tea in the 17th century, but with a creative, modern twist.
Costing CA$50 per person, their afternoon tea menu includes a delicious selection of classic butter scones and jam, along with other delightful sweets and savory dishes.
And of course, it comes with tea that you prefer, which you can select from their fine array of collections.
You’re sure to have a memorable culinary experience that also comes with elegance with indulgence.
2. Zoe’s Chateau Laurier
Website: https://www.zoesottawa.com
Address: 1 Rideau St.
Contact details: +1 613-241-1414
If you want to indulge in afternoon tea amidst an exceptionally lavish ambiance, Zoe’s at Chateau Laurier is the only place to be.
Its sophisticated allure, fit for royalty, is enough to make you feel like you’re reading Lady Whistledown in the comfort of your own mansion while you sip on tea, eagerly anticipating tonight’s ball.
You can expect a decadent array of delightful pastries, scones, and English scones, all impeccably served alongside your exquisite loose-leaf tea.
And if you bring a companion, perhaps there will also be some hot gossip on the side. But unlike in Bridgerton, you won’t find it in tomorrow’s column, so savor the scandal while it’s fresh!
3. Carmelito Cafe
Website: https://carmelitocafe.com
Address: 605 Longfields Dr, Barrhaven
Contact details: +1 613-234-5336
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 9 AM to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 9 AM to 10 PM
Carmelito Cafe boasts a quirky interior, where eclectic decor and vibrant colors create a whimsical atmosphere.
It’s an ideal afternoon tea setting for those who want to be transported into an Alice in Wonderland-esque setting, complete with a touch of magic in every detail.
Adults can choose from two kinds of afternoon tea – the basic afternoon tea with chef-chosen pastries and premium afternoon tea, where patrons are the ones who choose their own pastries.
Meanwhile, there’s also a children’s high tea for ages 12 and below.
4. Quelque Chose
Website: https://quelque-chose.ca
Address: 379 Richmond Rd.
Contact details: +1 613-728-4562
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Friday – 11 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Adored with pastel hues, Quelque Chose is a chic pastry shop, offering an impeccable afternoon tea selection.
There are multiple menu types to choose from, but you can expect a broad tea selection, delectable scones, savory finger sandwiches, macarons, croissants, and other assortments of delightful pastries.
You’ll find their cozy ambiance perfect for catching up with friends over tea and treats, or for some well-deserved me-time – because we all need that every now and then!
Do note that the afternoon tea is only served from 11 AM to 4 PM on Tuesday to Friday and 10 AM to 3:30 PM on weekends.
5. Billings Estate National Historic Site
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KQAs9i5J3APnqY9f8
Address: 2100 Cabot S
Contact details: +1 613-580-2088
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – closed
- Wednesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Billings Estate National Historic Site is a secret spot for an elevated afternoon tea in the city. Its 19th-century architecture provides a charming backdrop, promising an authentic setting to enjoy tea, especially since you’ll be sitting by the lawn.
For the ultimate experience, I recommend trying their most refined offering – the three-tier service for one.
This delightful selection includes finger sandwiches, scones with jam and butter, and a variety of delectable desserts, all accompanied by a pot of tea.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a peaceful afternoon, consider Billings Estate your next retreat in the heart of the city.
6. Cafe Cristal
Website: https://cafecristal.ca
Address: 240 Kennevale Dr.
Contact details: +1 613-843-8989
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 9 AM to 7 PM
Cafe Cristal is another hidden gem not to be missed. Despite its unassuming facade, patrons are pleasantly surprised upon stepping inside.
Complete with elegant furnishings, you’ll surely savor the ambiance while enjoying your tea.
While they typically do not feature a dedicated high tea or afternoon tea menu, except during special events, their regular menu is already brimming with a variety of crepes, both sweet and savory, sandwiches, and much more.
Additionally, Cafe Cristal boasts an impressive array of tea options, ranging from caffeinated to herbal blends, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate.
7. Tea & Cake
Website: http://www.teaandcake.ca
Address: 551 Somerset St W.
Contact details: +1 613-695-8832
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM
Tea & Cake delivers exactly what its name promises.
Their delicious afternoon tea offerings come with a wide array of treats, including scones with butter & jam, sandwiches, savory bites, and of course, a pot of tea depending on your preferences.
Make sure to let them know a day ahead if you’re coming in for high tea to ensure you secure a spot and enjoy their freshly prepared offerings.