Top 10 Afternoon Tea in Victoria: The Ultimate Guide

It is no surprise that Victoria, British Columbia, is one of the best cities in Canada to partake in afternoon tea. With its rich British heritage and charming atmosphere, the city has long been a favourite spot for celebrating a special occasion or relaxing on a quiet afternoon. Elegant and stylish, this is the shared experience. Whether it be such brilliant Victoria establishments as the Fairmont Empress Hotel or popular spots that have sprung up since then, or both at once, they are all included in this list. So, without further ado, let’s explore the 10 top places to enjoy that celebrated afternoon tea experience in Victoria!

Whatever your fancy, historic hotels or cosy tea shops, Victoria’s tea-time scene is quite varied. But don’t worry: whether you prefer an old-fashioned, grand setting or something with a more casual vibe that reflects the modern day, there is bound to be the perfect spot for your next afternoon tea in Victoria. However, this beautiful harbour town beside China Bay has mellowed over time. Why Afternoon Tea in Victoria is a Must: Afternoon tea may be a centuries-old British tradition, but in today’s Victoria, it is much more than just the food — it is an experience! The city’s British roots show up clearly with their special twist on afternoon teas, whether specially blended teas served in fine hotels or shops with their delicate pastry work and interesting little sandwiches. What makes Victoria different, however, is its setting: perched on Vancouver Island and surrounded by nature reserves, ocean beaches to the south, and mountains on all other sides. In such beautiful surroundings, it’s easy for anyone to forget modern life’s hustle and bustle and enjoy each sip of their tea. Whether you live here or are just visiting, the tea culture in Victoria is impossible to miss. Best of all, every place puts its unique spin on afternoon tea. This makes it easy to explore many venues and see the different styles, tastes, and atmospheres in different locations.

Top 10 Afternoon Tea Spots in Victoria

That’s right, the Top 10 Afternoon Tea spots in Victoria for locals. Whether you want to indulge in something grand or cosy and intimate, it’s all right here, so take your pick!

1. Fairmont Empress Hotel

Location: 721 Government St, Victoria, BC

Price: $$

Vibe: Classic, luxurious, historical

Reservation Recommended: Yes

It’s the place you imagine having been visited once or twice by a queen with far too many suitors. The hotel has been serving afternoon tea for over a century and remains one of the most famous spots in the city. Guests are given a grand, elegant experience complete with crystal chandeliers, marble floors, and breathtaking views of the Inner Harbour, one way or another.

Knowing what it is like to luxuriate in a grand hotel is something like having Royal Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel. The menu will consist of freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, various savoury finger sandwiches, and delectable pastries. The tea selection is also impressive, with a range of loose-leaf teas, including the right of the house–the hotel’s blend.

Featured:

• A broad selection of teas, including rare and signature blends
• Three-tiered traditional afternoon tea with savoury and sweet items
• An elegant hotel with a sense of history and lovely views of the harbour

Review Score: 9.5/10 — Just for those wanting a top-notch, luxury-themed afternoon tea in a first-class hotel setting.

2. The Secret Garden Tea Company

Address: 2138 W 40th Ave, Victoria, BC

Rate: $

Ambience: Homely, classy, in style

Reservations Needed: I would recommend booking

The Secret Garden Tea Company always provides an intimate, cosy, and inviting space for those looking for a more intimate afternoon tea. Set in Kerrisdale, one of Vancouver’s loveliest residential neighbourhoods, the tea house stands out with its delicate floral decor, friendly atmosphere, and charming milieu bound to make you feel at home.

Afternoon tea here is well presented, with finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and decadent pastries. In its selection of teas, the menu has both traditional and more exotic options to suit every taste.

Main Points:

• A range of lovely teas, ranging from the classic Earl Grey to fruity infusions
• The traditional three-tiered afternoon tea focuses on homemade treats.
• A warmly welcoming ambience, perfect for small gatherings or private occasions

Review Score: 8.5/10– A delightful and reasonably priced option, excellent value

3. Butchart Gardens Tea Room

Price: $$

Atmosphere: Elegant and tranquil. Tourists love it as an oasis amid a hot, dry countryside.

Reserve: Recommended (especially in the High season). The Tea Room offers a relaxing and scenic afternoon tea party in the heart of the famous Butchart Gardens. This venue is surrounded by luxuriant gardens and flowerbeds, which makes it ideal for someone looking for a peaceful, nature-inspired setting.

You can enjoy your tea looking out over the beautifully designed gardens, the perfect place to lie back and chill out. The afternoon tea menu includes a selection of high-grade teas, finger sandwiches, fresh scones with clotted cream, and pastries and cakes. For lovers of nature who love their tea as much as they love to breathe fresh air, this place is just right.

Highlights:

• Both tranquil and natural, the perfect setting for afternoon tea in the heart of Butchart Gardens
• An afternoon tea menu is carefully prepared with local ingredients and regional favourites.
• A view of the gardens and a relaxed atmosphere

Rating: 9/10 — A delightful combination of delicious tea and awe-inspiring gardens.

4. Murchie’s Tea & Coffee

Location: 110 W. Government St, Victoria, BC

Price: $

Vibe: Historic, casual, cosy

Reservation recommended: No (but weekends can get busy)

Murchie’s Tea & Coffee, one of Victoria’s oldest and most beloved tea establishments, offers a more laid-back but just as satisfying afternoon tea experience. It dates from 1894, a century on, and Murchie’s remains the favourite place for local folks. Not paying a visit could not be imagined by tea fans in town.

Murchie’s serves a classic afternoon tea experience with sandwiches, fruit scones, and sweet treats. They are located in the historic tea room, where the decor is outdated but charming and welcoming rather than shabby or rundown.

Highlights:

• A broad selection of loose-leaf teas and personal blends
• The traditional trappings of afternoon tea at a price that everyone can afford
• A historic setting slap in the heart of Victoria

Review score: 8/10 Perfect for an authentic, no-nonsense afternoon tea with actual value.

5. The Tea Room at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver Island

The Tea Room at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver Island

Location: 721 Government St, Victoria, BC

Price: $$

Vibe: Dignified, historical

Reservation recommended: Yes

Surrounded by rich tradition and grand decor, the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver Island makes for a breathtaking setting in which to enjoy afternoon tea. The tea room is a lovely space of beautiful and modest elegance, and its service is impeccable.

Enjoy traditional three-tiered afternoon tea with hot tea, savoury sandwiches, freshly baked scones, decadent cakes, and other desserts. The tea selection is extensive and of high quality, with a wide variety and bouquets of loose-leaf teas, the drinker is provided.

Highlights:

• Service of an impeccable standard, aided by excellent presentation
• A wide variety of high-quality teas
• A luxurious and tranquil atmosphere

Review score: 9/10 A refined, elegant place for those pursuing the fundamentals of tea-time.

6. Ritual Cafe

Location: 1218 Broad St, Victoria, BC

Price: $

Vibe: Modern, casual, trendy

Reservation Recommended: Yes

Innovate on the tradition of a relaxed morning tea experience, Ritual Cafe is the perfect place for you. Ritual Cafe’s minimalist decor and contemporary vibe are something new for tea in an age that prefers clear lines and new styles.

The cafe offers a choice of organic teas with both savoury treats and sweet snacks. A casual but chic spot in Wellington’s Heartland Tea Hall that fits your palate is ideal for tea.

Highlights:

• Organic local teas
• An atmosphere of fashionable yet laid-back
• Snacks to go with your tea, like black garlic and green onion cream puffs (new on the market at the moment)

Review Score: 7.5/10 — Young, fashionable afternoon tea. If you want more yum cha than traditional English-style provision, this suits the pushback against stuffiness at many restaurants today.

7. The Nest Bistro

Location: 3150 Barberry Pl, Victoria, BC

Price: $

Vibe: Relaxed, rustic, cozy

Reservation Recommended: Yes

Nestled right in the heart of the local area, The Nest Bistro is a pleasant change for an afternoon tea retreat. Given the cafe’s casual tranquillity, generously sized packages to choose from, and everyone’s tea, who could hear themselves over the clinking of silverware.

Afternoon tea is featured throughout this new eatery, serving fresh scones English-style, delicate finger sandwiches, and a variety of delectable sweet and savoury items. Whether you enjoy the classic Earl Grey or something more adventurous, The Nest Bistro does not fail to maintain a calm and gently tempestuous atmosphere of marvelling at one’s pleasure.

Highlights:

• Rustic and cosy, relaxed
• A well-chosen tea selection that includes blends with different perspectives

Review Score: 8/10 — In possibly the best upscale setting for afternoon tea in Victoria, BC.

8. Bungalow Tea Room

Bungalow Tea Room 1316 Government St, Victoria, BC8.Eugene is comfortable and elegant, with antiques. I loosely brewed tea in various flavours, including very creamy scones and some hot ones.

Over the years, around 8800 copies of The Significance of Foods have been sold in China and abroad. Another year later, meShuai Dafu did the original illustrations (illustrations based on photographs by Jin Ling). Bread and water have been made since.

highlights: A variety of outstanding loose-leaf teas, freshly baked scones, and a variety of savoury sandwiches. A beautiful vintage setting is for you to take it all in.

Review score: 8.5/10- Perfect for those who appreciate a vintage, elegant atmosphere and a traditional tea experience.

9. Tea at the Empress Garden Room

Tea at the Empress Garden Room, 721 Government St, Victoria, BC. Elegance and Classic Style, VAN Club

Price:$$

Files attributed to Russell Butler. Please refer to my previous email about licensing content for general guidance. Located within the classic Fairmont Empress Hotel, the Garden Room makes both parties proud. The lavish decor and air of historical nostalgia make it particularly good for afternoon tea lovers.

A traditional afternoon tea experience at the Empress Garden Room includes a vast array of premier teas, freshly baked scones, sensible sandwiches, and a range of dessert cakes with some indulgently sweet and sticky (even with cream on them ) cream on top. Service staff are thoroughly professional, taking care of the many details necessary so that you can thoroughly enjoy yourself.

• Superior quality loose-leaf teas

• Hot scones with jam and whipped cream

• First-class service and an atmosphere of refinement and luxury

Review Score: 9.5/10 — Ideal for those who seek a luxurious historic afternoon tea experience.

10. The Willows Beach Tea Room

Location: 4201 Currie Road, Victoria, BC

Price: $

The Daily Tea is a relaxed, scenic option for an afternoon outdoors. It is also perfect, without the fuss of booking or advance notice: the array of local and imported cakes and a wide range of bridal izakayas are almost too tempting!

It’s almost summer. Oolong fares best when taken under the moon; Sencha isn’t a bad choice. What will you serve in your cups? Here are some practical suggestions in point form that will help you create an experience that will not soon be forgotten.

The Willows Beach Tea Room is perfect for a peaceful, beautiful afternoon tea. It is located near the exquisite Willows Beach, in a setting unlike anywhere else. In our tearoom, you can enjoy tea with a view of the Pacific breaking on rocky outcrops below. Or look at all the manners that run out from here, free in spring and summer- Savannah charities for the defence of elephants.

The tea menu is delightful, with various loose-leaf teas paired with freshly baked scones, sandwiches, and pastries–a perfect way to start your evening. Relish pure water drunk from spring-fed streams at Mount Dake, and one of Marumo’s specially chosen mountain chalk cups yields the deep wholesomeness known only to enthusiasts.

Highlights:

• A peaceful, scenic environment enables guests to taste that poise unhurriedly in living, which they have only seen until now.

• Stunning views of Willows Beach and the ocean

There is no better place to sit and relax than the clubhouse. You can watch your child play or, if you like, work surrounded by lush hillsides and the incredible scenery of Hanover at any point all day, every day– a perfect place to come for a new view of a relaxed life!

Review Score: 8/10–An excellent option for a relaxing, scenic afternoon tea experience.

Conclusion

Victoria, BC, is home to some of Canada’s most expensive tea experiences– perfect for us! That is why this Top 10 Afternoon Tea guide offers such an array, from sumptuous hotel tea rooms to friendly neighborhood cafes. Whether you prefer classical grand places or a modern take with traditional Michigan berries on your scones instead of clotted cream, there’s an afternoon of tea for everyone in Victoria.