Afternoon tea is the unsung hero of mealtimes – never has one event been able to fill so many purposes. From the celebratory (anything you can throw a “shower” for, afternoon tea is a winner) to the obligatory (relatives from out of town, anyone?) to the just plain fun (hey, sometimes it’s nice to feel fancy), a tea service will be there.
Many afternoon tea services require or recommend reservations, so be sure to check in advance. Here are some of the places you can sit down for afternoon tea in Calgary.
The 6
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When: Afternoon tea is available Friday to Sunday from 1 to 4:30 p.m.
The 6’s afternoon tea offers an elegant experience over the weekends. Choose from seven teas and indulge in a variety of sandwiches and sweet snacks, including a kippered salmon sandwich, Lindt dark chocolate puff with strawberry cream and more.
638 6 Ave. S.W., 825-540-1191, the6canada.com
Alforno
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When: Afternoon tea is available daily from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Alforno’s Eau Claire location offers an afternoon tea experience that invites guests to unwind with freshly brewed teas, pastries and finger sandwiches. Reservations are mandatory and must be made at least 24 hours in advance, so be sure to plan ahead.
222 7 St. S.W., 403-454-0308, alforno.ca
And Some Cafe
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When: Afternoon tea is available daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The afternoon tea at this Sunnyside café is served on a charming mini Ferris wheel and is one of the few you can enjoy beyond the weekend. Sip on tea or coffee while enjoying beautifully made treats like canneles, macarons, scones, smoked salmon toasts and more.
540 7 Ave. N.W., 403-452-146, theandsome.com
Black Sheep
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When: Afternoon tea is available daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
At this French-inspired tea time, you can pair fresh baguette with your hot beverage, as well as treats like mini eclairs, tiramisu, cookies and more. Black Sheep’s tea is suitable for two people, so bring a friend and settle in for a delicious experience.
140, 815 17 Ave. S.W., 587-210-5063, black-sheep.ca
Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant
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When: Afternoon tea is available Saturdays and Sundays from 2 to 4 p.m.
Afternoon tea is the perfect accompaniment to this restaurant’s verdant landscape and historic setting. Enjoy a three-tiered display of sandwiches, scones, mini pastries and more.
15979 Bow Bottom Trail S.E., 403-476-1310, bvrrestaurant.com
Deane House
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When: Afternoon tea is available Friday to Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.
Afternoon tea at Deane House is a special weekend treat. This elegant experience is perfect for a bridal or baby shower, a post-shopping indulgence or some extra-special time with someone you love. Tea is served with a variety of savoury sandwiches, like the chimichurri beef tartlets and caramelized onion financiers, and sweets such as the apple turnover and wild rice macaron.
806 9 Ave. S.E., 403-264-0595, deanehouse.com
Fuwa Fuwa
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When: Afternoon tea available daily
You love Fuwa Fuwa’s souffle pancakes, and now the restaurant’s Chinook location has upped the ante with afternoon tea for two. The tea service has enough bites for two people, including two drinks, soups, pastries and other treats. Reservations made by phone are required for the tea service.
330, 6100 Macleod Tr. S.W., 852-558-3892, fuwafuwapancakes.com; @fuwafuwa.chinook
Hawthorn
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When: Afternoon tea is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 3 p.m.
Hawthorn at Fairmont Palliser hosts afternoon tea on Saturdays and Sundays with a wide selection of Fairmont-curated Lot 35 teas and a menu of scones, sweets and tea sandwiches that will make your mouth water. And there’s no need to leave the kids at home — the Little Kings & Queens Afternoon Tea offers pricing for children ages 12 and under.
133 9 Ave. S.W., 403-260-1219, hawthorndiningroom.ca
Hutch Cafe
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When: Afternoon tea is available Tuesday to Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m.
Hutch Cafe provides an ideal setting for afternoon tea. The Kusmi Tea selection is served with a range of savoury and sweet dishes, such as smoked prosciutto canapés, macarons, scones and more.
795 1 Ave. S.W., 403-454-8823, hutchcafe.com
Lougheed House
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When: Select dates (check Lougheed House’s website for exact dates)
This national and provincial historic site serves afternoon tea on set days that often coincide with special occasions and holidays. Complete the experience with a walk through the building’s historical museum, featured exhibitions and the Beaulieu Gardens when it’s nice out.
707 13 Ave. S.W., 403-244-6333, lougheedhouse.com
Nove Nine
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When: Afternoon tea is available Friday to Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Dive into the selection of finger sandwiches and delicate sweets offered at this warm and welcoming Parkdale diner. Nove Nine’s afternoon tea is served on an eye-catching tower display that makes it extra Instagram worthy.
3303 3 Ave. N.W., 403-283-2394, noveninediner.com
Prologue Café
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When: Afternoon tea is available Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m.
Located on the main level of The Dorian Hotel, Prologue Café offers afternoon tea on Saturdays and Sundays. Wilde About Tea features a mix of sweet and savoury bites, including a hibiscus and raspberry swiss roll and classic smoked salmon on a tarragon waffle.
525 5 Ave. S.W., 403-300-6631, prologuedaybar.com