Tea parties have been bringing people together since the 1840s, when Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, began enjoying a light meal between lunch and a late dinner. What started as an afternoon ritual soon evolved into a beloved social tradition centered around elegant tea party foods, warm conversation and a well-brewed pot of tea.
From finger sandwiches and pastries to creative tea party food ideas for every age, the right menu can make the occasion feel extra special, whether you're hosting a formal afternoon tea or a relaxed get-together.
Afternoon tea vs. high tea
While the names are often used interchangeably, afternoon tea and high tea are two different traditions. Both feature tea and a selection of sweet and savory foods, but they differ in timing, setting and the types of dishes served.
Afternoon tea (also called low tea)
Typically served between 3 and 5 p.m.
Traditionally enjoyed in a sitting room or parlor at low tables, which is where the name "low tea" comes from.
Features light bites such as finger sandwiches, scones, pastries and sweets alongside a pot of tea.
High tea (also called meat tea)
Usually served between 5 and 7 p.m.
Traditionally eaten at a dining table after a day's work.
Includes heartier foods such as meat dishes, savory pies, eggs, breads and other filling fare. Plus tea, of course.
How to build a tea party menu
A well-rounded tea party menu includes a balance of savory bites, baked goods, sweets and a variety of beverages.
Black teas like Earl Grey and English Breakfast are classic choices, while green tea, herbal blends and decaffeinated teas provide lighter alternatives. It's also a good idea to offer at least one non-tea beverage, such as lemonade, sparkling water or coffee.
Afternoon tea menu: Light and dainty
Traditional afternoon tea is known for its elegant presentation and bite-sized portions. Foods are typically arranged on a three-tier serving stand, with savory items on the bottom, scones in the middle and sweets on top.
Top tier: Sweets and pastries
Petit fours: Buy some decadent petit fours to add flavor and variety to your table. They can also be served as party favors.
Mini cupcakes: With so many flavors, these are a great option for a kid's tea party menu. They also make a stunning display when you’re decorating for your tea party.
Brownie bites: Pre-made brownie bites are super simple, but they don’t have to be boring! Colored frosting, sprinkles and other tasty decorations make them much more fun. You could even turn it into an activity by letting each child decorate their own.
Strawberry shortcake: These are a fun addition to any tea party. You can also serve lemon shortcakes if you prefer.
Truffles: Include a variety of truffles or chocolate candies at your party. Arrange each type in a separate mason jar, then decorate the jars with some ribbon to complement the rest of the table décor.
Shortbread cookies: Shortbread pairs perfectly with a hot cup of tea. Choose classic shortbread or flavored varieties like lemon or lavender for a little extra variety.
Fresh fruit: This is a healthy option most kids will enjoy. Use cupcake liners or small dishes and mix various colorful fruits to make the snacks visually appealing.
Macarons: Macarons bring an elegant touch to any tea party. Offer a mix of flavors like vanilla, pistachio, raspberry and chocolate so guests can sample a few.
Madeleines: These light, shell-shaped sponge cakes are delicious served plain or dusted with powdered sugar.
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Middle tier: Scones
Freshly baked scones: Scones are the most popular tea party food. Serve these with lemon curd, whipped cream or grated cheese.
Mini croissants: Fill them with pesto or ham and cheese. You could also fill the croissants with berries and cream.
Clotted cream or whipped cream: Clotted cream is the traditional choice for scones, while whipped cream is an easy, widely available substitute.
Strawberry or raspberry jam: Fruity jams add sweetness and pair beautifully with warm scones. Offer both flavors so guests can choose their favorite.
Lemon curd: Bright, tangy lemon curd provides a refreshing alternative to jam. It's especially delicious alongside blueberry or plain scones.
Bottom tier: Savory finger foods
Cucumber tea sandwiches: A classic afternoon tea staple, these light sandwiches are made with thinly sliced cucumber, butter or cream cheese and soft white bread.
Egg salad tea sandwiches: Creamy egg salad makes an affordable, crowd-pleasing filling. Garnish with fresh chives, dill or paprika for extra flavor.
Smoked salmon tea sandwiches: Layer smoked salmon with cream cheese and cucumber or dill for an elegant bite, perfect for special occasions.
Ham and cheese tea sandwiches: Ham and cheese are a familiar favorite that appeals to both kids and adults. Add Dijon mustard or a thin layer of butter for extra flavor.
Mini quiches: Bite-sized quiches add a warm, savory option to the menu. Spinach and feta, Lorraine or mushrooms are all excellent choices.
Savory scones: Scones offer a flavorful alternative to sweet baked goods and pair wonderfully with the rest of a savory spread.
High tea menu: Hearty and savory
Unlike afternoon tea, high tea is served as an early sit-down supper rather than a light afternoon snack. It’s shared around the dining room or kitchen table and features heartier dishes designed to satisfy a bigger appetite. While tea is still the traditional beverage, the food takes center stage, with a mix of savory mains, fresh breads and a simple dessert.
Savory mains and bites
High tea is built around filling, savory dishes that can be served family-style or arranged on platters for guests to share.
Sausage rolls: Flaky pastry wrapped around seasoned sausage makes a classic high tea favorite that's easy to prepare in advance.
Meat or veggie pies: Individual hand pies or slices of a larger pie add a comforting, hearty option to the table.
Quiche: Spinach, Lorraine or vegetable quiche can be served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for entertaining.
Deviled eggs: These creamy, bite-sized tea party appetizers are easy to make ahead and pair well with other savory dishes.
Charcuterie board: Arrange cheeses, cured meats, crackers, nuts, olives, fruit and preserves for an easy centerpiece guests can graze on.
Heartier sandwiches: Fill thick slices of bread with combinations like roast beef, ham and cheese, turkey or chicken salad for a more substantial meal.
Breads and bakes
Fresh breads and baked goods round out the meal and pair perfectly with a hot cup of tea.
Crumpets: Serve warm with butter, jam or honey for a simple, comforting side.
Tea cakes: Lightly sweet breads filled with dried fruit are delicious toasted and spread with butter.
Heartier scones: Cheese, herb or whole-wheat scones complement the savory dishes while adding another traditional baked item.
Bread and butter: Offer sliced bread with softened butter for guests to enjoy alongside pies, quiche or charcuterie.
Something sweet to finish
A simple dessert provides the perfect ending to a traditional high tea, without feeling overly heavy.
Fruitcake: This classic tea-time dessert is rich with dried fruit and pairs beautifully with black tea.
Victoria sponge: Filled with jam and whipped cream, Victoria sponge is a timeless choice for high tea.
Other cakes: Pound cake, lemon loaf or coffee cake are all easy options that can be sliced and served with that final cup of tea.
Tea party etiquette and hosting tips
A few simple etiquette tips can help your tea party feel polished without being overly formal. For a traditional afternoon tea, guests typically work their way through the three-tier stand from the bottom up, starting with the savory tea party finger foods, followed by the scones and ending with the sweets and pastries.
If you're serving scones, you may encounter the long-standing cream-and-jam debate. In Cornwall, it's customary to spread jam first, then clotted cream. In Devon, the order is reversed. Either approach is acceptable, so choose the style you prefer.
A few more hosting tips to keep in mind:
Don't worry about holding your pinky out while drinking tea. Proper tea etiquette is simply to hold the cup comfortably.
Plan for about four to five savory bites and a few sweet treats per guest.
Offer at least one vegetarian option and one nut-free option so a wider range of guests can enjoy the menu.
Set out small plates, napkins and serving utensils so guests can easily help themselves.
Brew fresh pots of tea throughout the gathering to keep beverages hot and flavorful.
Order everything you need to host a memorable tea party
The best tea party snacks are easy to enjoy, beautifully presented and simple to prepare. From finger sandwiches and fresh-baked scones to pastries, loose-leaf tea and elegant serving essentials, stocking up ahead of time makes hosting feel effortless, so you can spend more time with your guests.
Get everything you need delivered with Instacart, including fresh bakery treats, ingredients for homemade favorites and specialty teas. You can also browse our selection of jam or fresh flowers as you order groceries for your next celebration.
FAQs
Should I cook or serve premade foods at my tea party?
Either option works. Homemade treats add a personal touch, while premade pastries, finger sandwiches, cookies and desserts can save time without sacrificing presentation. Many hosts mix the two by baking one signature item and filling out the spread with high-quality store-bought favorites.
What should I bring to a tea party as a guest?
A thoughtful hostess gift is always appreciated. Consider bringing loose-leaf tea, a box of specialty cookies, fresh flowers, jam, honey or a small tin of chocolates. If the host asks you to contribute food, tea sandwiches, scones or bite-sized desserts are all great options.
How far ahead can you make tea party food?
Many tea party foods can be prepared one to two days in advance. Cookies, cakes and other baked goods often keep well when stored in an airtight container. Tea sandwiches are best assembled the day of the party to keep the bread fresh, while scones are best baked the same day or reheated just before serving.
What food do you serve at a tea party?
A classic tea party menu includes finger sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, pastries, cookies and fresh fruit. You can also add savory bites, such as mini quiches or charcuterie boards, alongside a variety of hot and refreshing iced teas
