As we head into the colder months, what’s a better way to warm up and unwind than with a nice cup of tea in a cozy atmosphere? The best part? You don’t have to brew it yourself. Northern Virginia has a great selection of tea shops.
The Tea Cart
For those seeking a traditional tearoom experience, the Tea Cart is the perfect place for you. This British tearoom serves English fare alongside specialty teas. Try the apple spice green tea or maybe the classic Earl Grey. Each month, the tearoom features a different three-course menu, plus desserts. Reservations are recommended for this two-hour service. 16 West Main St., Berryville
Crest Hill Tea Room
Crest Hill Tea Room is another English-style tearoom that takes its afternoon tea seriously. With over 30 blends to try, you’re bound to find one that you love. Add a housemade scone, assorted tea sandwiches or a pastry sampler and make it a meal. There’s also a children’s menu. Reservations are highly recommended since there is limited seating. 6488 Main St., The Plains
Elden Street Tea Shop
At the Elden Street Tea shop, you can have a small tea party or just purchase some tea for home. No reservations are required for parties of 4 or smaller. Seasonal varieties include pumpkin spice, chocolate butterscotch, and apple ginger rooibos. On Saturday, Nov. 11, the shop will host Murder They Wrote: A Cozy Mystery Tea Party at The Tower Club Tysons Corner, in collaboration with Scrawl Books, for $55 a person. Buy tickets online. 714 Pine St., Herndon
Dominion Tea’s Tasting Room
This tasting room in Purcellville offers the opportunity to sample any of the nearly 100 loose leaf teas. Grab some friends and the tasting room’s monthly rotating tea flights to choose a favorite. Be sure to make a reservation for parties of four or more. Mondays and Thursdays are appointment-only days in the tasting room. 210 N. 21st St., Ste. F, Purcellville
Teas’n You
This shop offers more than a hot cup of tea. Its selection includes an extensive variety of loose teas, milk teas, and fruit-infused teas. Opt to try something different, such as white rose cream tea topped with sea salt cream and rose petals, or perhaps a seasonal item such as the pumpkin chai milk tea. Your food options include pastries, salty snacks, and chicken sandwiches. 8032 Leesburg Pike, Tysons
Feature image of tea at Elden Street Tea Shop by Rey Lopez
For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine’s Food Newsletter.