Afternoon Tea
When it comes to afternoon tea, London may be the most famous place to indulge, but the trend has caught on in Paris and the French capital is starting to rival its British counterpart. After all, there’s no place like France for patisserie, and the cakes and pastries in Paris show it. If you want to sample the goods yourself, here are a few of the best places for afternoon tea in Paris.
Mariages Freres
Address: 30 rue du Bourg-Tibourg, Paris 75004
Tea and Mariage Freres are synonymous in Paris, what with the famous French tea house being established way back in 1854. There’s no better tea to be found in Paris, and the tearoom in the Marais is the perfect place to indulge. I love the colonial ambiance and signature teapots (for sale in the shop if you want to take one home afterwards), and the tea menu is as extensive as you’ll find anywhere. Their afternoon tea selection consists of sandwiches filled with duck foie gras and Empereur Chen Nung flavored smoked chicken, as well as sweets like millefeuilles, creme cakes, crumbles, fresh fruit tarts, and macarons.
Four Seasons George V
Address: 31 avenue George V, Paris 75008
If you’re looking for the most luxurious afternoon tea in Paris, the Four Seasons George V is the place to go. The hotel offers several different options to choose from, all of which include fine teas, an assortment of savories like foie gras and smoked salmon, homemade scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, and pastries like canneles from Bordeaux, Madeleines, and Financiers. All of it can be enjoyed with a glass of champagne in the beautiful setting of La Galerie, which has stunning Flemish tapestries and 19th century paintings and furniture. As an added bonus, a pianist plays every day from 3:00pm.
Hotel Daniel
Address: 226 Rue de Rivoli, Paris 75001
Hotel Daniel is one of the most popular places for traditional afternoon tea in Paris. A Relais & Chateaux property, the hotel exudes elegance and and offers a luxurious place to indulge in tea and pastries. The menu features exotic teas from all over the world served with an assortment of finger sandwiches, traditional scones, and a selection of pastries. Champagne is optional, but encouraged. This is Paris, after all.