Photography courtesy of Windsor Arms Hotel
There’s something so sophisticated (and perhaps a bit indulgent) about treating yourself to afternoon tea. The classic British tradition is one of our favourite ways to spend an afternoon in a new city, but when we can’t get to London, New York or Paris for high tea, we find great ways to escape right here in Toronto. Here are some of our favourite afternoon tea spots — whether you live in Toronto or are just visiting, a quiet afternoon of tea will always hit the spot.
The Windsor Arms
A frequent celebrity haunt, The Windsor Arms is quiet and tucked away on St. Thomas Street, just off of Bloor Street West. Tea is served in the Tea Room from 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. daily and includes smoked salmon and salmon caviar, petit fours, scones, tarts and fresh fruit. Even more dainty — your tea is poured from pretty flowered pots.
Price: Starting at $30
Windsor Arms Hotel, 18 St. Thomas St., 416-971-9666.
The Old Mill Inn and Spa
Charmingly British, this Tudor-inspired hotel in the west-end of Toronto has an adorable garden terrace that makes afternoon tea in the spring and summer a special treat. But in cooler months, you can sip on Earl Grey and dine on sandies and sweets in the cozy inclosed terrace.
Price: Starting at $20.95
The Old Mill Inn & Spa, 21 Old Mill Rd., 416-236-2641.
Photography courtesy of Royal York Hotel
The Fairmont Royal York Hotel
This hotel stands as a landmark in the heart of Toronto and officially opened in 1929. Its grand and old-fashioned Library Room is the perfect setting for daily tea from 2:30 to 4 p.m that comes with a berry cocktail, pastries, crumpets, little sandwiches and of course, scones.
Price: Starting at $35
The Fairmont Royal York, 100 Front St. W., 416-860-6949.
Le Royal Meridien King Edward
The King Eddy has a long tradition of serving up some of the best pots of tea in the city. While the King’s Tea (Fridays through Sundays) comes with the traditional scones and finger-friendly-bites, it is also complemented with delicious compots, croissants, crème brûlée and includes a Canadian twist — a French tourtière.
Price: $28
Le Royal Meridien King Edward, 37 King St. E., 416-863-9700.
Four Seasons Hotel
This hotel is usually swarming with A-list celebrities, socialites and the fashion-set. It’s classiness and grandeur make it the perfect place to have a relaxing cup of tea. With a large tea selection, you can pick from traditional or Numi flowering teas (hand-sewn delicate tea leaves that bloom like a flower while they steep in hot water). Pair your tea with warm scones topped lemon curd — it definitely makes the experience extra special.
Price: Starting at $35
Four Seasons Hotel, 21 Avenue Rd., 416-964-0411.
