Afternoon tea, one of my favorite things to partake in while traveling through Europe. Before visiting Paris, I thought afternoon tea was a habit of the Brits, but I quickly learned that Paris itself also offers an array of fabulous locations to take a break from the day and sip your worries away. In France, tea dates back to the 17th Century and some say we can thank the French for adding milk to the warm libation. Tea was originally drank for medicinal reasons but eventually was used as the drink of choice during aristocratic parties. Thus, the art of afternoon tea was born! So grab your favorite tea cup, sit back, relax, and read about our favorite places to sip tea in Paris!

Four Seasons Hotel George V

Image Source: https://www.fourseasons.com/paris/dining/ 

Let’s start with my personal favorite, tea at the Four Seasons Hotel George V. I adored this experience not only because I was enjoying afternoon tea, but also because I was visiting a Parisian staple and iconic hotel. Afternoon tea is served in the La Galerie lounge, where you will be accompanied by live piano music. The hotel offers everything from tea to hot chocolate and champagne. You can also expect a menu full of afternoon treats and exquisite customer service. In walking distance from Champs-Elysées, I can’t think of a better way to end a day of shopping.

Ladurée

Image source: http://www.dreamsofvelvet.com/macarons-afternoon-tea-at-laduree-yorkdale-toronto/ 

Ladurée easily made it on our list. We also discussed this fabulous pastry shop in a recent blog post, “Our 10 Favorite Pastry Shops In Paris,” but had to give it another honorable mention as they offer a fabulous location to sip. Ladurée offers both a tourist destination but also a historical experience. If you didn’t get a chance to read our pastry blog post, here is quick refresher in the history of Ladurée’s tea room. The Parisian (now worldwide) staple, was originally opened as a bakery in 1862 by Louis Ernest Ladurée. It wasn’t until 1871 that it was turned into a pastry shop. During this time cafés were becoming more lush and began to attract high society. Paris at this time was full of entertainment seekers, especially the wealthy. Women were also changing, looking for new adventures and new places to socialize. Unfortunately, at this time the places offered to women to do so were said to be old-fashioned and stuffy. Thus, Louis Ernest Ladurée’s wife had the idea to create a new place for women to gather. By collaborating the parisian café and the pastry shop, the first tea room was born: The ”salon de thé.” From the macarons to the tea, Ladurée is a must!

Le Dali Restaurant at Le Meurice

Enjoy afternoon tea in an actual work of art. Le Meurice is an absolute iconic hotel located in the heart of Paris, with decor being inspired by many famous Parisian artists over the decades. Afternoon tea offers freshly baked pastries by well-known chef, Cédric Grolet and tea experts to help your tea making decision a little easier. Customers rave about the Rubik’s Cube cake, saying there is no other cake like this in the world. Tea and world renown cake? Sounds like a must go for me!

Shangri-La

Image Source: http://www.shangri-la.com/paris/shangrila/photos-videos/

Because what’s better than having afternoon tea in Paris? Having afternoon tea in Paris with a view of the Eiffel Tower, and Shangri-La is the place to do it. Not only is Shangri-La a must for our lover’s of a view, but it’s also perfect for any of our readers with dietary restrictions. The elegant hotel recently released an all vegan menu, which includes finger sandwiches, biscuits, and dairy-free clotted cream. Created by Pastry Chef Michaël Bartocetti, he even made sure the champagne is vegan. Vegan champagne? Sure, I’ll take another glass, it’s healthy.

Sesame

Last but not least is Sesame, a different type of tea experience due to its modern feel. This tea house gives a funky, community like vibe and is a must if you’re looking for a non touristy destination. Found in Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood, cozy up with their infamous Chai tea latte, or their ginger, lemon and honey tea.

So put down your pumpkin spice latte and pour yourself a ginger tea.