Are you looking for a cozy and festive way to celebrate the holiday season in Chicago? Consider indulging in one of the city’s many holiday afternoon teas. From classic hotels to trendy cafes, there are plenty of options.

Here’s The Chicago Good Life Guide to Holiday Afternoon Teas in Chicago! We’ve listed these in order of budget to splurge!

Holiday Teas $40-$65

Russian Tea Time Restaurant – This long-running daily afternoon tea service is a Chicago classic. They offer a variety of menu plans, with the most basic starting at $44.

The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party an interactive trunk and puppet show featuring four beloved Beatrix Potter stories, complete with original music. After the show, enjoy a communal tea party with holiday treats, play with the puppets, and take pictures with the cast. Tickets start at $47.25 + fees.

Hotel Zachary – Hotel Zachary’s lounge and restaurant, Alma, offers Teddy Bear Tea on weekends from December 1, 2024, to January 26, 2025. This festive tea service includes Rare Tea Cellars, hot chocolate, tea sandwiches, scones, cupcakes, and other sweet treats. Children up to 12 can bring their favorite stuffed friend. Tea service costs $60 per adult and $30 per child. NOTE: It looks like reservations are full already for most of December! 

The Allis at SoHo House Chicago – Sip hot tea and bubbles paired with homemade pastries and savory bites. Limited reservations are open to the public Friday through Sunday. The Afternoon Tea Service is $63, and the Sparkling Tea Service is $76.

Holiday Teas $70-$100

The Gwen Hotel—Tipsy Tea at the Gwen is a favorite of mine for ladies’ brunch! This year’s theme is Martha May Whovier’s Christmas Grinch Tipsy Tea. Adult tickets start at $70. This would make a great holiday outing with friends!

Vanille Chicago – Vanille Patisserie offers Holiday Tea in Lincoln Park. This tea is best for parties with 4-10 people, and tickets are $75 per person. Enjoy Vanille’s signature pastries, scones, and finger sandwiches while sipping on the finest of Benjamin’s Tea. 

The Drake Hotel – Holiday Afternoon Tea reservations are available in Palm Court and on selected dates in Club International. Weekend tea service begins November 7, and weekday service begins November 22. A live harpist and holiday carolers will be stationed to perform on select dates through Christmas. Adult tickets start at $79.

Pendry Chicago – Bar Pendry offers Boozy Tea on Sundays. Enjoy tea-based cocktails, a creative take on the classic tea menu, and live entertainment from Chicago musicians. The service costs $80 before alcohol.

Ritz Carlton Chicago – Enjoy Festive Tea at Torali on Saturdays and Sundays from November 29th to December 22nd. Indulge in tea, finger sandwiches, quiche, scones, and pastries. $85 per ticket.

LondonHouse Chicago – I got to visit LondonHouse to experience their 2023 tea, and it was incredible! Their tea service is offered daily in the Bridges Lobby Bar, on the second floor of the hotel with stunning views of the Chicago River and famous bridges. The Holiday Tea menu begins November 20 and is $95 per person, which includes your choice of Rare Tea Cellars tea, a pastry basket, and an adorable tea tower. Our favorites late year were the Peking Duck Spring Rolls, Vegan Crab Cakes (you couldn’t even tell they were vegan!), and the Eggnog Coffee Cake.

Holiday Teas $100+

The Peninsula Chicago – Experience a delightful Festive Afternoon Tea under the majestic 20-foot Christmas tree in The Lobby. A string duo performs daily, and Santa pays a visit on weekends. Afternoon Tea is available from November 29 to January 5, 2025, every day. Tickets start at $140 for adults and $75 for children.

The Langham Chicago – We love tea at the Langham! Executive Chef Damion Henry presents a delectable sweet and savory holiday journey designed for the naughty and nice. Tickets are $70 for children and start at $145 for adults.

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago – Teddy Bear Tea features savory bites and sweet treats while benefiting our community. Service runs November 25-December 31, and adult tickets start at $150. The lobby is beautiful during the holidays!

Waldorf Astoria Chicago – Brass Tack on the 3rd floor of the Waldorf is being transformed into a Parisian scene with a stylish black-and-white entrance. Area fashion designers will showcase their latest couture while you enjoy delicious delicacies and teas. A portion of the proceeds will support Imerman Angels. Tickets are $150 for adults and $55 for children. November 29, 2024 – January 12, 2025.

For more tips and recommendations on how to live your best Chicago Holiday Good Life, click here!

Cheers!

Christine