Ever since I was little, I loved afternoon tea so much! The attention to detail and the miniature sandwiches and pastries were always so beloved. Unfortunately, I’ve had to say goodbye to many afternoon tea places that have closed over the years, but the memories are alive and well with me.

One such example is the Lyman-Smith House in Norwood, MA that used to serve the most delicious Boston afternoon tea complete with a full sized soup and large scone with jam and clotted cream. I will be adding to this list as I try new teas, but here are ones that I recommend in Boston. Do you like high tea in Boston? Spot of tea? Here’s the best afternoon tea in Boston.

Massachusetts’ Best Afternoon Tea Experiences:

1

Boston Harbor Hotel
Boston, MA near South Station T

Our favorite time to come is late Spring/early Summer or late Fall when the sea breezes are still there with the wind in your hair, but it’s not quite warm enough for no coat. You can sit inside or outside on Rowes Wharf and enjoy your tea sandwiches here.

2

Boston Public Library
Boston, MA near Copley Square T

First of all, the BPL is a must-visit location on any trip to the city. But some may be surprised to know of the inventive and delicious tea menu they offer, from traditional lobster to Milky Way petit fours! They have an excellent tea selection. The four seasons boston afternoon tea and ritz boston afternoon tea are not recommended because the ritz closed, and four seasons is a $99 experience including champagne. The mandarin oriental, Boston afternoon tea is no longer here.

3

Harvard Square Chocolate Tour
Cambridge, MA

For a progressive treats tour consider us! On our Chocolate Tour you’ll be able to indulge in a series of sweet tastings as well as unique beverage pairings such as iced hot chocolate, fun for all ages.

4

Vintage Tea and Cake Co.
Lexington, ARLINGTON and Belmont, MA

This spot is a dream come true. This traditional English Tearoom has all the delights from clotted cream to antique china. They offer catering and to-go boxes as well. They have been in business since 2012 but the Lexington tea room opened in 2023 with Arlington to follow.

5

Artistry on the Green
Lexington, MA

If you’re looking for a less “pink” or “feminine” tea experience, check out this old Lexington Inn which has American flag decorations. While less cozy, we did enjoy this little snack (the sandwiches are not super plentiful so don’t come hungry!)

6

Fancy That
Walpole, MA

I went here on my 30th birthday with my parents, and it was quite dainty! Definitely make a reservation as this spot fills up. Enjoy a cup of tea set on a beautiful doiley and enjoy the seating.

7

Abigail’s Tea Room and Terrace
Boston, MA near South Station T

Although it’s not true high tea, you can have a spot of tea and pastries by the waterfront with skyline views at the Boston Tea Party museum. Servers dress up in period costume as colonial tea ladies and gentlemen, and you can sample up to five different tea, lemonade, apple cider, and tasty treats from scones to cookies and pies. There’s also lunch available, and this tea is kid-friendly. Nearby, the langham, boston afternoon tea used to be served along with their chocolate bar but unfortunately no longer.

8

The Tea Leaf
Waltham, MA

There’s a lot going on in this tea shop on busy Moody Street. Make sure you park in the right location, and then come in ready to sip the warm brew and munch on a variety of goodies. Call ahead with any dietary preferences for this Massachusetts afternoon tea.

10

Silver Dove
Downtown Boston, MA

Interestingly, Silver Dove is a completely gluten-free afternoon tea experience, which is very unusual given the scones and sandwiches that are often made with flour. They offer savory canapes, a scone, and sweets alongside tea — in a beautiful setting!

11

Bistro Du Midi

Downtown Boston, MA

The newest afternoon tea experience on our list has a Parisian flair, they call it their Garden View Tea. The tea sandwiches are a bit more daring, including duck and caviar which may frighten some pallettes. But the tea selection is delicious!

Got a sweet tooth? Join our Harvard Square Chocolate Tour this weekend!


Looking for a fun year-round excursion? Off The Beaten Path Food Tours offers food tours and chocolate tours year-round for all ages, locals and visitors alike. We love our guests! Book now via offthebeatenpathfoodtours.com and check our tour calendar.