Imagine lounging on a sunny porch in the heartland of America, where the sweet scent of blooming cornfields meets the cozy charm of small-town life. This is where the tradition of afternoon tea takes on a unique twist in Iowa. It’s not just about the tea; it’s a celebration of local flavors, from wild berry jams to honey-laden pastries, all shared with friends and laughter under the vast, open sky.
So, grab a comfy chair, pour yourself a cup of Iowa’s finest brew, and let the warmth of the community fill your afternoon with joy.
10 Best Afternoon Tea in Iowa, United States for 2024
- Friendship Tea House
- Miss Spenser’s Special-Teas & Longview Bed and Breakfast
- Slykhuis Twilight Tearoom
- Joan Bice Underwood Tearoom
- The Tea Room
- Hi Tea
- Tea Cellar
- Gong Fu Tea
- The Bep Teahouse – Iowa
- La tea
1. Friendship Tea House
Contact Details
Phone: (712) 501-4088
Website: www.friendshipteahouse.com
Address: Le Mars, IA 51031, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Why This Afternoon Tea Room Is a Must
Friendship Tea House in Le Mars is your go-to chill spot. It’s got that homemade vibe with food and drinks that taste like they’re straight from grandma’s kitchen. Plus, the place is super welcoming and totally wheelchair-friendly.
What to Eat Here
Don’t miss out on their scratch-made treats. Whether you’re into sweet or savory, they’ve got you covered. Grab a seat and dig into their fresh pastries – they’re the talk of the town!
2. Miss Spenser’s Special-Teas & Longview Bed and Breakfast
Contact Details
Phone: (641) 342-1547
Website: missspensersspecialteas.com
Address: 3220 Wyoming St, New Virginia, IA 50210, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Why This Afternoon Tea Room Is a Must
Escape to Miss Spenser’s for a chill vibe and the ultimate tea time. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with friends or enjoy a cozy date. The attention to detail will make you feel like royalty!
What to Eat Here
Dive into a feast of flavors with their homemade scones and clotted cream, or get adventurous with unique tea blends. Don’t miss out on their signature sandwiches and pastries that are total taste bud rockstars!
3. Slykhuis Twilight Tearoom
Contact Details
Phone: (515) 707-9621
Website: www.iowatearoom.com
Address: Williamson Ave, Williamson, IA 50272, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Why This Afternoon Tea Room Is a Must
Step into the charming Slykhuis Twilight Tearoom and feel the buzz! It’s the go-to spot for chilling with friends or celebrating special moments. With cozy seats both indoors and out, plus the option to book ahead, it’s a no-brainer for a laid-back afternoon.
What to Eat Here
Dive into a menu that’s all rave reviews – the food’s top-notch! Whether you’re craving sweet treats or savory delights, there’s something for everyone. And with Tina rocking the hosting game, you’re in for a fab time with tasty bites that’ll have you coming back for more!
4. Joan Bice Underwood Tearoom
Contact Details
Phone: (515) 294-3330
Website: aeshm.hs.iastate.edu
Address: MacKay Hall, 2302 Osborn Dr, Ames, IA 50011, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Why This Afternoon Tea Room Is a Must
Nestled in the heart of Ames, the Joan Bice Underwood Tearoom offers a cozy retreat with its charming indoor and outdoor seating. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and indulge in the age-old tradition of afternoon tea. With easy access for everyone and the option to reserve, it’s a welcoming spot for an intimate catch-up or a celebratory gathering.
What to Eat Here
Dive into a delightful selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries that are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy. Don’t miss out on their signature teas that perfectly complement the treats, making your afternoon tea experience truly memorable.
5. The Tea Room
Contact Details
Phone: (515) 336-1317
Website: thetearoomdsm.com
Address: 713 Walnut St UNIT 600, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Why This Afternoon Tea Room Is a Must
Step into The Tea Room and you’re stepping into a piece of history with a modern twist. It’s the go-to spot for those special life moments, from weddings to sweet sixteens. With an accessible entrance, it’s welcoming for everyone, and the staff? They’re all about making your day.
What to Eat Here
While you’re soaking in the elegance, treat yourself to the signature scones and delicate finger sandwiches. Don’t miss out on their famous tea selection – it’s like a flavor party for your taste buds! Perfect for a chill hangout or a classy afternoon with your squad.
6. Hi Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (319) 651-1221
Address: 5472 Blairs Forest Way NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Why This Afternoon Tea Room Is a Must
Dive into the vibrant world of “Hi Tea” where every sip comes with a smile! It’s the go-to spot for a chill hangout, offering a cozy indoor or sunny outdoor seat. Plus, it’s easy on the wallet and totally wheelchair-friendly.
What to Eat Here
Not just a tea lover’s paradise, “Hi Tea” serves up some seriously cool ice cream too. Whether you’re craving the creamy swirls of a classic cone or the popping boba of a bubble tea, this place has your cravings covered. Grab a cup to go or stay for a chat – either way, you’re in for a treat!
7. Tea Cellar
Contact Details
Phone: (319) 260-2030
Website: teacellartea.com
Address: 209 State St, Cedar Falls, IA 50613, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Why This Afternoon Tea Room Is a Must
Chill vibes, unique tea blends, and a super welcoming space make Tea Cellar the go-to spot in Cedar Falls. It’s the perfect hangout to unwind with friends or dive into a book, all while sipping on some top-notch tea.
What to Eat Here
Don’t miss out on the seasonal Pumpkin pie and the rich Pumpkin spice tea. For a classic combo, pair the peaches and cream tea with a savory ham and cheese quiche. It’s a taste that’ll have you coming back for more!
8. Gong Fu Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (515) 288-3388
Website: www.gongfu-tea.com
Address: 414 E 6th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Why This Afternoon Tea Room Is a Must
Gong Fu Tea is the chill spot every tea lover dreams about. With a vibe that’s both stylish and laid-back, it’s the perfect place to unwind with friends or chill solo. Their tea game is strong, offering a killer selection that’ll impress from the first sip.
What to Eat Here
Pair your tea with their German breakfast blend for a hearty start, or grab some English Breakfast if you’re feeling classic. And for those who like a bit of mystery, the Iron Goddess will surprise you in the best way. Don’t miss out on this tea-rrific experience!
9. The Bep Teahouse – Iowa
Contact Details
Phone: (319) 936-4391
Website: food.orders.co
Address: 201 S Clinton St #167, Iowa City, IA 52240, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Why This Afternoon Tea Room Is a Must
Step into the Bep Teahouse for a vibe that’s as refreshing as their drinks. With an artsy decor and mini-games, it’s the perfect chill spot for you and your squad. Plus, it’s got that Instagram-worthy aesthetic that’ll give your feed a serious glow-up.
What to Eat Here
Dive into the Rose Lychee or get your paws on the Tiger Paws – these drinks are the talk of the town. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, the desserts won’t disappoint. Just a heads up, the fruit teas are on the sweeter side, so if you’re not about that sugar rush, you might want to explore other options. But hey, the snacks are a hit, so munch away!
10. La tea
Contact Details
Phone: (319) 259-3339
Address: 123 E Washington St, Iowa City, IA 52240, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Why This Afternoon Tea Room Is a Must
Chill vibes, cool drinks, and a wallet-friendly menu make La tea the go-to spot in Iowa City. Whether you’re rolling in with your squad or flying solo, the laid-back atmosphere and accessible location are perfect for a casual hangout.
What to Eat Here
Dig into the fan-fave mango pomelo sago for a fruity blast, or get adventurous with the unique dirty dirty milk tea. If you’re feeling peckish, grab some takeout – just watch out for the cake milk tea, which might be a bit much if you’re planning to add boba.
The perfect spot for afternoon tea in Iowa
When I was looking for the perfect spot for afternoon tea in Iowa, I wanted a place that wasn’t just about great tea but also had a unique vibe. So, I checked out a bunch of places to see which one felt right.
Friendship Tea House caught my eye because it sounded cozy and welcoming. I imagined it would be a place where you could chill with friends and have a good time.
Then there was Miss Spenser’s Special-Teas & Longview Bed and Breakfast. This place seemed to offer more than just tea; it was like a mini-getaway where you could relax and maybe even stay the night.
Slykhuis Twilight Tearoom had a mysterious ring to it, and I thought it might have a cool, quirky theme going on, which could be fun for an afternoon hangout.
Joan Bice Underwood Tearoom sounded more traditional and elegant, the kind of place where you might go for a special occasion or to treat yourself to some fancy pastries.
The Tea Room was straightforward and to the point. I figured they’d focus on the tea experience, which could be great for a true tea enthusiast.
Hi Tea seemed trendy and modern, maybe the kind of spot where you’d find some interesting tea blends or Instagram-worthy decor.
Tea Cellar gave me the impression of a place that takes its tea seriously, with a variety of choices and maybe some rare finds.
Gong Fu Tea sounded like it had an Asian influence, which could mean some authentic and traditional tea experiences.
The Bep Teahouse – Iowa seemed like it might have a local, down-to-earth feel, which I always appreciate.
And finally, La Tea had a chic, European flair to it, at least in the name, so I thought it might be a bit more upscale and fashionable.
In the end, I chose the one that promised a unique experience and matched the vibe I was looking for that day. It’s all about what you’re in the mood for and what kind of tea experience you want to have! 🍵
