Our History
For me, tea has always been more than just a beverage—it’s a ritual of connection, comfort, and community. Growing up in Bangladesh, a country deeply influenced by British traditions, teatime continues to be a daily pause at 10am and 4pm, when everyone stopped for a cup of tea, a biscuit, and a shared moment of conversation. That rhythm of life stayed with me as I moved to the United States, where tea continues to ground my days. Especially in today’s fast-paced world. High Tea Grand Rapids was born from that belief and a dream I first imagined back in 2005. With the help of an incredible team and years of perseverance, that dream came to life on April 6, 2023!
Everything you experience with us—from the delicate pastries crafted by our in-house chefs to our authentic clotted cream from Devon, England—have been thoughtfully curated to offer you a fine dining experience in the classic British tradition. While enjoying your experience you will see our greatness lies in the details. We’re proud to be the first of our kind in West Michigan, and it’s my privilege to welcome you into our tea room. Whether you’re new to High Tea or carrying fond memories of it, I invite you to slow down, savor the details, and make this ritual your own.
Melissa Langley, Owner
The History of High Tea and Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea started in England with Anne, the Duchess of Bedford, in 1840. Aristocracy (or the upper class) did not have their formal dinner until after 8pm in the evenings, which made for a lengthy stretch between luncheon and dinner, leaving people quite hungry. The Duchess of Bedford took up the idea of having a “light” meal sitting on her couches with the food set up on her coffee tables. This meal was taken at 4pm as a way to satisfy her hunger and get her through to dinner. She began inviting her friends to her afternoon “tea,” which firmly rooted this experience into British culture.
This “light” meal consisted of a pot of tea, scones, finger sandwiches, and petite desserts. If you visit England, you will see that tea time remains at 4pm.
High Tea is traditionally a more hearty meal and often is taken at tables with a more savory selection of foods. While “High Tea” began as a working class meal, it was adopted by the upper class as well to provide sustenance while servants were unavailable to prepare a larger meal.
We acknowledge the difference between High Tea and Afternoon Tea but for sentimental reasons, we have chosen to call our restaurant High Tea. We have also added Grand Rapids because we are proud of our town and community.
High Tea Grand Rapids is proud to present our version of Afternoon Tea in an elegant setting following the English tradition.
What to Expect
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our gracious host who will show you to your table and will provide you with a menu. You will then place your High Tea tray order consisting of a custom selection of finger sandwiches, savory choices, in-house crafted sweets, handmade scones, and more. (Gluten free, vegetarian options are also available. Please, provide notice when you make your reservation). Your tray will be delivered on our custom stands and then it will be time to “tuck in” (that is British for “dig in.”)
Please enjoy this time with your friends and family in our beautiful dining room and be sure to check out the retail area and take-away bakery case on your way out.
In our retail space, you will be able to purchase tea, tea sets and merchandise that will enhance your own tea time at home along with our hand-crafted desserts and treats. We know you’ll want to take home a memory of your visit!