5 Places to go For Tea in Richmond
Spring has officially made her appearance, and with her comes some to-dos that especially help ring in this most splendid time of year — like afternoon tea.
Afternoon tea is intentional and slow, reminding us that it’s okay to take our time and live presently. While city-living doesn’t always grant the opportunity to do that, we know of a few great spots in RVA where you *can* take it easy and enjoy a cuppa.
— by Alie McArdle, Contributing Writer (and the brains behind This Little Life. Follow her work @thislittle_lifeblog!)
PS: If you want more where this came from, Alie’s got other ~tea-tails~ here.
Tea rooms
Floris
Floris at VMFA has taken the stage as Richmond’s newest tea room. The location is *chef’s kiss*; you can visit the VMFA before or after tea time. While you’re sitting and sipping, you can try two teas at a time (signatures, black, herbal, green, white, and more) along with breads and other small savory and sweet bites.
Location: 200 N Arthur Ashe Blvd (Museum District)
Hours: Found here
The Queen’s Library Tea Room
The Queen’s Library Tea Room is the epitome of nobility. From the moment you enter this space, it feels like you’ve taken a step back in time. It should come as no surprise then that the tea they serve is from none other than Fortnum & Mason — the very same company that has been supplying Buckingham Palace since 1707!
This spot also hosts a variety of events that cater to all kinds of interests, like their Bridgerton Tea Affair, Queen Elsa’s Tea Experience, Hobbit-Inspired Tea, and more.
Location: 221 E Clay St (Jackson Ward)
Hours: Found here
The Jefferson
The Jefferson is a Richmond staple for many reasons, but what makes it so special is how you feel when you step inside: regal and elegant. The vibe when attending afternoon tea here is no different. The experience here is top-notch, and every detail is taken into consideration. From the white-glove service to the tasty tiered tray of goodies, you’ll feel taken care of at The Jefferson.
Their tea events are can’t-miss soirees, too. The spot hosts Christmas tea and Halloween tea, both of which offer their own charm.
Location: 101 W Franklin St (Monroe Ward)
Hours: Found here
Tea shops
The Spice & Tea Exchange of Richmond
Get ready to be enveloped by delicious aromas and the excitement that The Spice & Tea Exchange of Richmond presents. This shop is your ticket to buying tea to enjoy at home. They have over 30 different types and a variety of sugar flavors that you won’t find anywhere else (think: salted caramel and hibiscus flavored sugar, for example)!
Location: 3007 W Cary St (Carytown)
Hours: Found here
Apothec
Apothec is another great spot for sourcing teas for sipping at home. They have more than 200 in their inventory, and the staff here is friendly and knowledgeable about each one! Apothec also has interesting events they put on monthly, like tarot card readings and candle-making.
This spot is more of a community than just your typical tea shop. They make organic products in house too, like insect repellant and body scrub.
Location: 318-320 Libbie Ave (West End)
Hours: Found here
For more drinks (& eats):
