Welcome to the charming city of Ottawa, Ontario, where tradition meets sophistication in the delightful ritual of afternoon tea.
Nestled among historic landmarks and bustling streets, the tradition of afternoon tea has found its home in various elegant venues across the city.
As you step into these refined settings, you’re greeted with the tantalizing aromas of freshly brewed teas and an array of delectable treats meticulously prepared to indulge your senses.
Whether you seek a cozy corner in a quaint tearoom or prefer the opulence of a luxurious hotel setting, Ottawa offers a diverse array of options to experience this timeless British tradition.
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Best Afternoon Tea in Ontario
1. The Vanitea Room, A Tea Salon & Eatery
Indulge in tiered trays of sweet and savory nibbles during the 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM hours, Tuesday through Sunday.
While the sandwiches, scones, and sweets are commendable, consider the slightly hefty portions.
The absence of the classic cucumber sandwich and Devonshire cream may leave traditionalists longing.
An array of delights awaits, though a dessert served in plastic cups might clash with the overall refined experience.
A visit promises a memorable afternoon tea, but aficionados might miss a few classic touches.
2. teastore
Whether you’re a tea aficionado or just starting your tea journey, the welcoming ambiance and knowledgeable staff make it a delightful destination.
With its prime location in Ottawa’s bustling market, it offers a serene oasis to unwind and enjoy a cuppa.
Indulge in a delightful array of treats ranging from classic scones to exotic pastries, perfectly complementing their diverse tea offerings.
Don’t miss out on their signature strawberry iced tea, a refreshing choice for a sunny afternoon.
Each sip is a journey through flavors, promising a memorable experience that keeps patrons coming back for more.
3. ZOE’S
ZOE’S, nestled within the Fairmont Chateau Laurier, offers a lavish setting adorned with elegant chandeliers, perfect for indulging in martinis and light bites.
While the atmosphere may be grand, the food and service leave much to be desired.
Despite the hefty price tag, the Christmas tea failed to deliver a festive experience, with lackluster offerings and subpar cleanliness noted by disappointed patrons.
From stale sandwiches to uninspired desserts, the culinary offerings fall short of expectations.
Additionally, rushed service detracted from the overall experience, leaving guests feeling underwhelmed and questioning the value of their visit.
4. Cafe Cristal
Cafe Cristal is a hidden gem in Ottawa, offering a charming escape with its whimsical decor and cozy ambiance.
The inviting atmosphere makes it a must-visit spot for afternoon tea enthusiasts.
The friendly staff adds a personal touch, creating a delightful experience from the moment you step in.
Indulge in a delightful array of premium teas and coffees, elevating your afternoon tea experience.
The crêpes and pastries are a highlight, showcasing the culinary expertise of Cafe Cristal.
The menu boasts a perfect balance of sweet and savory options, with each bite delivering a burst of flavor.
Don’t miss the chance to savor the carefully crafted treats that complement the serene setting of this unique tea and coffee haven.
5. Fairmont Château Laurier
Fairmont Château Laurier’s afternoon tea room offers a charming and elegant ambiance, perfect for indulging in a delightful tea experience.
The historic setting adds a touch of grandeur to your afternoon, making it a must-visit destination in Ottawa.
Savor a selection of delectable finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of exquisite pastries and desserts.
Pair your treats with a choice of fine teas or opt for the luxurious option of champagne to elevate your afternoon tea experience to new heights.
6. Quelque Chose
Quelque Chose is a charming spot nestled in Ottawa, offering a delightful afternoon tea experience.
The ambiance is inviting, with pastel tones and friendly service that truly elevates the experience.
They go the extra mile by checking for food allergies or diet restrictions, ensuring a worry-free visit.
Indulge in a delightful array of treats including warm, crumbly scones, buttery and flaky croissants, and a colorful selection of macarons.
The sweets and sandwiches are both visually appealing and bursting with unique flavors and textures, perfectly complemented by a cup of Earl Grey tea.
Whether it’s for a special occasion or a leisurely afternoon, Quelque Chose promises a memorable culinary experience that will leave you coming back for more.
7. The SconeWitch
The SconeWitch at 35 Beechwood Ave., Ottawa, is a cozy spot perfect for a delightful afternoon tea experience.
Indulge in their array of sweet and savory scone creations; the Ham & Gruyere with Cheddar and Orange Cranberry scones are particularly delicious.
Pair them with a comforting cup of Decaf Irish tea for a delightful afternoon delight.
8. Carmelito Café
Carmelito Café in Barrhaven is a must-visit for a delightful afternoon tea experience.
The charming atmosphere, adorned with iconic figures like Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra, creates a unique and enjoyable setting.
The friendly staff, especially the fabulous Lizzy at the cash, adds a personal touch to your visit.
Indulge in a variety of delectable treats during your afternoon tea at Carmelito Café.
From a great selection of hot and cold drinks to scrumptious sandwiches and desserts, the menu caters to every palate.
The cafe’s commitment to quality is evident in the diverse options available, making it a perfect spot to savor a relaxing afternoon tea with friends or loved ones.
9. Quelque Chose
Quelque Chose offers a delightful blend of French desserts with a contemporary twist, making it a must-visit for anyone in Ottawa.
With its charming ambiance and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and indulge in a leisurely afternoon tea experience.
Their assortment of macarons steals the show, featuring flavors like Cappuccino, Lemon Poppy, Salted Caramel, Cotton Candy, Caramel London Fog, and Pistachio.
For a memorable treat, don’t miss their soft serve ice cream adorned with macaron sprinkles.
The menu caters to both classic and adventurous palates, ensuring there’s something for everyone to savor at Quelque Chose.
10. Figaro Coffee House
The variety of freshly micro-roasted Arabica coffee beans ensures a delightful beverage experience, complementing the traditional tea service.
Indulge in their delectable assortment of pastries and sandwiches, beautifully paired with their signature iced hot chocolate.
Don’t miss out on the unique flavors and friendly service amidst the bustling atmosphere.
11. Meow Tea
Nestled at 279 Elgin St, Ottawa, Meow Tea charms with its adorable cat-themed decor.
The well-maintained space offers a delightful break from the bustling downtown scene.
Indulge in the meow meow milk tea for a well-balanced blend of flavor, sweetness, and toppings.
The peach green tea with pearls is a refreshing choice, though be mindful of its inherent sweetness.
Don’t miss out on their loyalty program if you plan to make this your go-to spot.
The smaller size options and the ability to customize hot drinks make it a versatile and guilt-free experience.
Overall, Meow Tea stands out among Ottawa’s bubble tea offerings, making it a recommended stop for tea enthusiasts.
12. Tealive
With extended hours from 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM every day, it’s perfect for tea cravings at any time.
The ambiance is inviting, offering plenty of seating and a relaxing atmosphere for friends to gather.
Tealive boasts a diverse menu with a variety of drink options, including customizable bubble teas and refreshing smoothies like the Mango smoothie, which kids particularly enjoy.
13. Tea And Cake
Tea And Cake in Almonte, Ontario, is a charming tearoom that’s a must-visit for anyone craving a delightful afternoon experience.
With its cozy interior and friendly staff, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and indulge in some delicious treats.
Indulge in a delightful array of sandwiches, scones, and desserts at Tea And Cake.
Their afternoon tea selection is not to be missed, offering a variety of savory and sweet options at reasonable prices.
From pecan pie to gingerbread cake, every bite is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you satisfied.
14. The SconeWitch
Nestled in the heart of Ottawa, The SconeWitch redefines the afternoon tea experience.
The charming ambiance and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a must-visit spot.
The location on 150 Elgin St adds to the appeal, making it a central hub for tea enthusiasts.
From sweet vanilla-cream scones to savory sconewitches, the menu caters to diverse palates.
The carefully crafted breakfast choices and a range of coffee selections complement the scones perfectly.
A standout recommendation is the cream cheese sconewitch, offering a delightful blend of flavors.
15. DAVIDsTEA – Rideau Centre
DAVIDsTEA at Rideau Centre offers a contemporary ambiance and a diverse selection of gourmet teas and accessories.
The vibrant atmosphere coupled with friendly service makes it an inviting spot for tea enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Indulge in their wide array of tea options ranging from classic blends to innovative flavors.
Pair your tea with delectable treats like scones, pastries, and sandwiches, meticulously crafted to complement your tea experience.
However, it’s advisable to communicate your preferences clearly, especially if you desire your beverage sweetened.
16. World of Tea
Nestled in the heart of Ottawa, World of Tea offers a serene escape where tea enthusiasts can indulge in a delightful afternoon experience.
The ambiance is cozy and inviting, perfect for unwinding with friends or enjoying a quiet moment alone.
With a vast selection of premium teas sourced from around the globe, this quaint tea room promises an authentic and immersive journey into the world of tea.
From delicate finger sandwiches to decadent pastries, World of Tea serves up a delectable array of treats to complement your tea selection.
Savor the freshness of traditional cucumber sandwiches or indulge in the rich flavors of freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam.
For those with a sweet tooth, the assortment of petite desserts promises to satisfy every craving.
Whether you’re craving a light snack or a full afternoon tea experience, World of Tea caters to every palate with its exquisite menu offerings.
17. Carmelito Cafe
The inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing afternoon tea experience.
Whether you’re catching up with friends or enjoying some alone time, this cafe offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city.
Indulge in their delightful selection of pastries and sandwiches, each crafted with care and bursting with flavor.
Don’t miss out on their namesake biscotti, a perfect accompaniment to their fragrant teas and rich coffees.
From savory bites to sweet treats, Carmelito Cafe promises a delectable culinary journey that will leave you craving more.
18. Le Moulin de Provence KD METCALFE & QUEEN
Le Moulin de Provence KD METCALFE & QUEEN is a charming contemporary cafe, a perfect spot for tea enthusiasts.
The tea selection is impressive, offering a delightful experience with personal-sized brews from real tea leaves.
Indulge in their French-style baked goods and sandwiches; however, caution is needed with the pastries as they tend to be pricier than other places.
Opt for the tea over coffee, as some patrons have found the coffee options lacking, especially in the afternoon.
Despite the mixed reviews on pastries and coffee, the fresh and tasty tea makes it a go-to spot for a relaxing afternoon tea experience.
19. Sip Tea
Sip Tea at 203 Bank St, Ottawa, is a must-visit for its cozy ambiance and ample seating, perfect for unwinding with friends.
The atmosphere is inviting, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea.
Indulge in their delightful selection of milk teas, including the crème brûlée and chocolate with cheese mousse varieties.
Don’t miss their signature milk tea and the refreshing Coffee milk tea, which resembles a delicious iced coffee.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Brown Sugar Boba Milk Tea is a standout choice.
Be mindful of sweetness levels, opting for regular or higher, as their zero sweetness option truly means zero!
19 Best Afternoon Tea in Ottawa, ON, Canada for 2024
- The Vanitea Room, A Tea Salon & Eatery
- teastore
- ZOE’S
- Cafe Cristal
- Fairmont Château Laurier
- Quelque Chose
- The SconeWitch
- Carmelito Café
- Quelque Chose
- Figaro Coffee House
- Meow Tea
- Tealive
- Tea And Cake
- The SconeWitch
- DAVIDsTEA – Rideau Centre
- World of Tea
- Carmelito Cafe
- Le Moulin de Provence KD METCALFE & QUEEN
- Sip Tea
Hi there! I am Roy Davis, a passionate storyteller and traveler. I have always had a love for adventure and discovering new cultures, which led me to start AfternoonTeaing. Through my blog, I share my afternoon tea experiences and insights from my travels, along with helpful tips and recommendations to inspire others to see the world.
