Dublin’s top hotels put on afternoon tea with a sense of occasion you won’t find just anywhere. They serve classic tiered stands and Irish-inspired bites in lounges that feel both grand and welcoming.
The Shelbourne Hotel claims the title of Dublin’s most iconic spot for afternoon tea. This five-star Georgian hotel has been greeting guests since 1824.
Inside the Lord Mayor’s Lounge, you’ll find velvet chairs and sparkling chandeliers. The room always buzzes with a mix of stylish locals and travelers from all over.
Finger sandwiches come out perfectly cut, and the scones are always fresh from the oven. The kitchen sneaks in Irish flavors—think whiskey-cured salmon on Guinness bread—that give the tradition some local flair.
For the sweet tooth, there are delicate pastries and tarts, all arranged on bone china. The whole thing feels plush but never stuffy.
Staff keep an eye on your table and know the menu inside out. If you have dietary needs, they handle it without fuss. The price tag matches the central address and the quality on offer.
The Westbury Hotel brings five-star polish but keeps the vibe relaxed. You’ll find it just off Grafton Street, so plenty of shoppers and business folks drop in.
Upstairs, the Gallery Lounge has high ceilings, big windows, and comfy seats. It’s a great spot to watch Dubliners bustle by below.
Afternoon tea here means traditional sandwiches, warm scones, and pastries made with good ingredients—no over-the-top tricks. The tiers are just right for sharing.
There’s a Champagne trolley that makes the rounds, letting you pick your bubbly tableside. Honestly, it’s a fun bit of drama.
The lounge feels spacious and you never get the sense that staff want to hurry you out. It’s a favorite for long chats and lazy afternoons.
The Atrium Lounge at the College Green Hotel feels bright and airy, thanks to a soaring glass ceiling. Sunlight pours in during tea service.
Modern furniture and lush plants give the place a fresh twist on the classic tea setting. It doesn’t look or feel like the usual hotel lounge.
The menu mixes creative finger sandwiches with old favorites. Cakes arrive topped with edible flowers and colorful garnishes, so they’re as pretty as they are tasty.
Chefs use local ingredients whenever possible. Scones come out warm, with clotted cream and jam. Desserts change with the seasons, depending on what’s fresh.
Even on a rainy day, the glass ceiling brings in light and lifts the mood. Prices stay reasonable considering the quality.
Bewley’s stands out as Dublin’s most genuine afternoon tea tradition. This legendary café has been serving the city from Grafton Street for almost a hundred years.
Inside, you’ll find stained glass windows and wood-paneled walls. It feels like stepping into another era—something you just don’t get at the big hotels.
They stick to the basics: sandwiches, scones, and cakes, all homemade and served on classic stands. There’s nothing trendy about it, and that’s kind of the point.
Bewley’s has spent decades perfecting their signature tea blends. Staff know how to brew a proper pot, and you can taste that in every cup.
Locals love the no-nonsense style, and prices are lower than what you’d pay at the luxury spots. If you want a real Dublin experience, this is the place.
Dublin has a few afternoon tea options that break away from the usual hotel scene. Vintage Tea Trips rolls out a mobile tea service on a double-decker bus, while hotels like the Iveagh Garden Hotel and The Morrison Hotel bring in modern themes and twists.
Vintage Tea Trips turns afternoon tea into a rolling adventure through Dublin. They run out of 20-22 St Stephen’s Green, using a restored 1960s double-decker bus.
Guests settle in upstairs as the bus cruises past city landmarks. You get all the classics: finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, plus a selection of pastries.
What makes it special:
Staff dress in old-school uniforms and share stories about Dublin as you ride. Since the bus only seats about 20 people, you really need to book ahead.
The Iveagh Garden Hotel puts a modern spin on afternoon tea just steps from St Stephen’s Green. They focus on slick presentation but stick to the heart of the tradition.
Sandwiches are made with local, high-quality ingredients. Scones—both classic and flavored—come out warm, with proper clotted cream. Pastries lean into Irish flavors and look as good as they taste.
Service highlights:
If you’ve got dietary needs, just let them know in advance. They offer vegetarian and gluten-free options. The tea menu features Irish blends and some international picks. It’s a good spot for small groups or bigger celebrations.
The Morrison Hotel gives afternoon tea a design-forward feel in a riverside setting. Their pastry chefs create desserts that look great on Instagram—and taste even better.
Sandwiches feature unexpected combinations, all using Irish produce. Scones come out warm, and the preserves are made in-house from whatever fruit is in season.
Distinctive features:
The Morrison’s afternoon tea works well for anyone who wants a fresh take on tradition. You can add prosecco or champagne if you’re celebrating something. The stylish space attracts both locals and travelers looking for something a bit special.
Dublin’s afternoon tea scene really centers around three main areas. St. Stephen’s Green is all about luxury hotels, Grafton Street has the traditional favorites, and South William Street brings in the modern, creative spots.
St. Stephen’s Green is the go-to for high-end afternoon tea in Dublin. Several five-star hotels here have truly mastered the art.
The Shelbourne Hotel is the star of the show, especially with its Lord Mayor’s Lounge. Guests relax on velvet seats and enjoy Irish twists like whiskey-cured salmon on Guinness bread. The crowd is a mix of locals and visitors looking for something special.
The Conrad Dublin is also nearby. They keep up the high standards you’d expect from a global hotel.
Key Features:
Many places offer garden views, so you get a peaceful vibe even in the city center.
Grafton Street is Dublin’s classic afternoon tea hub. It’s a busy shopping street that mixes retail with tradition.
Bewley’s Coffee is the legend here. It’s been open for almost a hundred years, serving up towers of sandwiches, scones, and their own tea blends. Big windows let you watch the world go by.
The Westbury Hotel sits just off Grafton Street. Their first-floor lounge is bright and stylish but not intimidating. The Champagne trolley adds a little showbiz to the whole thing.
Notable aspects:
South William Street brings a cool, modern flavor to afternoon tea. Younger crowds love it, and the menus get pretty creative.
House doubles as a club and restaurant. Their afternoon tea includes cocktails, like the Bramble with gin and blackberry liqueur. The playlist is always chill, so the vibe is laid-back, not stuffy.
Pink goes for themed teas—think Barbie Dreamhouse interiors for birthday groups. The menu mixes scones and tarts with fun extras like cacio e pepe arancini.
A handful of indie cafés line the street too. They keep things casual but don’t skimp on quality.
Distinguishing features:
Dublin’s best afternoon tea spots each have their own menu style, blending Irish tradition with modern cooking. You’ll find everything from local cheeses and classic sandwiches to house-made buttermilk scones and creative pastries.
A great afternoon tea starts with savory bites. Dublin’s top venues use Irish ingredients and clever recipes to upgrade the usual finger sandwiches.
Traditional picks include cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon with dill butter, and egg mayo with watercress. The Lord Mayor’s Lounge serves these plus bolder options like steak sandwiches with horseradish cream on sourdough.
Many kitchens buy local. The Merrion Hotel pairs Irish farmhouse cheeses with homemade chutneys, and Castle Tea Rooms slices ham straight from the joint.
Savory pastries round things out—mini quiches with veggies, smoked fish tartlets, and cheese straws made with sharp Irish cheddar. The Gallery at The Westbury offers little vol-au-vents filled with creamy mushroom or chicken.
These savory bites set the stage before you dig into scones and sweets.
Buttermilk scones are the heart of Irish afternoon tea, no question. Dublin’s tea rooms bake them fresh and take real pride in the results.
They use Irish buttermilk for that signature tang and tender crumb. Bewley’s Grafton Street brings out their scones hot from the oven, so you get them at their best.
Toppings stay classic—thick clotted cream from Devon or Cornwall, plus homemade jam. Strawberry, raspberry, and blackcurrant are the usual favorites.
Some places mix it up. The Atrium Lounge serves plain and sultana scones, while Wall & Keogh Superior Teas sometimes adds seasonal flavors like elderflower or lemon.
How they’re served matters too. Scones come split and just warm, with little pots of cream and jam. Some folks put jam first, some go for cream first—it really depends on your mood.
These scones are the perfect bridge between savory and sweet, and honestly, they’re hard to beat.
Afternoon tea spots in Dublin really stand out thanks to their creative pastry selections. Chefs there show off both their technical skills and their flair for new flavors.
You’ll always spot miniature cakes on the classic tiered stands. The Dylan serves elegant red velvet cake slices, plus Victoria sponge and lemon drizzle. With these bite-sized cakes, you can try a few flavors without feeling stuffed.
Each venue puts its own spin on artisan pastries. The Westbury bakes delicate éclairs with seasonal creams, while Tea Garden rotates its French-style macarons in all sorts of flavors.
Some places serve up signature desserts you won’t forget. You’ll find cheesecake in all sorts of forms—from New York-style with berry compote to Irish cream twists. The Merrion Hotel’s pastry team also makes whiskey truffles using top-notch Irish spirits.
Menus change with the seasons, which keeps things interesting. In spring, you might get elderflower panna cotta. Autumn brings out spiced apple tarts or pumpkin mousse.
All these sweet treats make sure your afternoon tea ends on a high note. It’s the kind of indulgence that sticks with you.
Dublin’s afternoon tea venues don’t mess around when it comes to tea. Their selections range from classic Earl Grey to rare oolongs from all over the world.
The sheer variety and quality of fragrant teas and master tea blends really set the best places apart.
Top afternoon tea spots in Dublin curate tea lists that’ll transport you. The Westbury pours teas from every corner of the globe in polished silver pots. The Lobby Lounge covers everything from English Breakfast to herbal infusions.
Fragrant teas are at the heart of Dublin’s afternoon tea culture. Earl Grey remains a favorite, with its citrusy bergamot that pairs perfectly with dainty sandwiches.
Wall & Keogh Superior Teas have a staggering 150 loose leaf options. They’ll even help you blend your own mix to suit your taste.
If you want something caffeine-free, herbal infusions like chamomile, jasmine, and rose petal offer a gentle, aromatic alternative. They go down so well with pastries and scones.
The best tea masters in Dublin know that a great blend takes both skill and top-quality leaves. The Atrium Lounge, for example, offers a range of blends that match their sweet and savory bites.
At The Merrion Hotel, tea masters create house blends you won’t find anywhere else. They often sneak in Irish flavors, giving a nod to local traditions.
Master tea blends really mark out the high-end venues. The right blend brings out the best in every treat, never overwhelming the food.
The Gallery at The Westbury takes pairing seriously. Their tea sommelier recommends matches for each dish, which honestly takes the whole experience up a notch.
Dublin’s afternoon tea scene knows how important it is to cater to different diets. Many places offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free menus if you book ahead.
A bunch of Dublin hotels and cafés now serve full plant-based afternoon teas. The Morrison Hotel’s vegan afternoon tea costs €42 and swaps out dairy for clever alternatives.
Bewley’s Grafton Street looks after vegetarians and pescetarians too. Their menu features plant-based sandwiches and dairy-free scones.
Vegan afternoon tea usually comes with:
Most places ask for 72 hours’ notice if you need a special menu. The Conrad Dublin always includes veggie options, so you don’t feel left out.
Vegetarian teas often have cheese sandwiches, egg mayo, and sweets made without animal rennet or gelatin.
Gluten-free options have become pretty standard in Dublin’s best venues. The Morrison Hotel offers a gluten-free tea at the same €42 price as their regular menu.
The Conrad Dublin puts out a full gluten-free spread, swapping in wheat-free alternatives. Bretzel Bakery supplies gluten-free bread to a few places too.
Typical gluten-free menus:
Staff get trained on allergies and special diets. Most venues can handle more than one dietary need at a time, but booking ahead helps them get it right.
Dublin’s historic landmarks bring together cultural heritage and culinary tradition for unique afternoon tea experiences. Trinity College and the Chester Beatty Library both offer standout settings where you can soak up some history along with your tea.
Trinity College, right in the city center, sets a grand stage for afternoon tea. Founded in 1592, the university gives your tea a scholarly, old-world feel.
Several tea spots nearby serve afternoon tea with views of the campus. The Georgian buildings and cobblestone paths make it feel especially “Dublin.”
Many people combine their tea with a visit to the Book of Kells. It’s a classic way to enjoy Dublin’s literary and culinary culture in one go.
Being close to Grafton Street, you can easily hop from a college tour to a nearby tea room. Lots of places even offer packages that bundle tours with tea.
Chester Beatty Library, inside Dublin Castle, serves afternoon tea in a truly special museum. The place houses rare manuscripts and decorative art from around the world.
In warmer months, you can take tea in the rooftop garden overlooking the castle courtyards. There’s something peaceful about sipping tea up there.
Special afternoon tea events often sync up with the library’s exhibitions. These themed teas blend cultural discovery with a bit of indulgence, and both locals and visitors love them.
The library’s global collection sometimes inspires the menu, with teas and treats influenced by Asian or Middle Eastern traditions. That twist really sets Chester Beatty Library apart from more traditional spots.
If you want the best afternoon tea in Dublin, you’ll need to plan ahead. Most premium venues ask for reservations, especially on weekends or during special events.
Hotels like The Shelbourne and The Westbury usually book up a week in advance for weekends. If you go on a weekday, you’ll probably find more open tables and more attentive service.
Honestly, calling works better than online booking. Staff can help with dietary needs or seating if you talk to them directly. Most places run several sittings between 2:30 and 4:30pm.
Peak times are Friday to Sunday, 1–3pm. If you want a quieter vibe, try an early slot at 12:30pm or go after 4pm. The Merrion Hotel and Bewley’s on Grafton Street get especially busy at peak times.
Quick booking tips:
Menus change with the seasons at Dublin’s top tea venues. The Silk Road Café rolls out new global flavors every few months. The Shelbourne keeps it classic but adds Irish seasonal touches.
December and January bring festive teas—think mince pies and Christmas treats. Valentine’s Day means romantic packages and champagne at places like The Westbury.
Spring menus get lighter and fresher, while summer sometimes means you can sit outside. Come autumn, expect more spices and heartier bites—perfect for chilly weather.
Mother’s Day and Easter are super popular, so you might need to book three weeks ahead. Venues often run special prices for these holidays. The Art Tea at The Merrion Hotel even changes its menu every quarter to match their art collection.
If you visit in the shoulder seasons (September–November, February–April), you’ll find seasonal flavors and it’s easier to get a table.
Afternoon tea in Dublin isn’t just about classic teas. Many places now offer champagne, gin, or even coffee to mix things up. You can go for elegant alcohol pairings or try coffee-based drinks with your treats.
Premium venues like The Shelbourne and The Merrion take things up a notch with champagne afternoon teas. Prosecco or top-shelf bubbly cuts right through all that clotted cream and butter.
Irish gin is a big deal these days. Some places pair craft gins with botanical sandwiches and delicate pastries. Champagne bubbles keep your palate refreshed, while gin’s herbs play off cucumber sandwiches and lemon tarts.
You’ll even find gin and tonic pairings with certain teas. Juniper works especially well with Earl Grey desserts or citrusy treats.
Not a tea drinker? Dublin’s venues have you covered. Many offer single-origin espresso and flat whites with their afternoon tea.
Hot chocolate is another favorite, particularly when it’s cold outside. Some venues serve rich Belgian hot chocolate that pairs perfectly with scones and jam. Others offer spiced chai lattes for something in between.
Fresh juices and mocktails show up at family-friendly or vegan spots. Elderflower cordial or sparkling water are nice, light options that won’t overpower the food.
Knowing a bit about afternoon tea etiquette and what to expect makes the whole thing more relaxed. Dublin’s venues stick to British traditions but add plenty of Irish charm.
Most Dublin afternoon tea spots prefer smart casual or formal attire. The Shelbourne and The Merrion, for example, love when guests show up looking elegant.
Men usually go for collared shirts with trousers or chinos. Jackets look great but, honestly, you don’t always need one. Just skip shorts, flip-flops, or gym gear.
Women often pick dresses, or maybe a blouse with a skirt or smart trousers. Lots of folks enjoy dressing up—it kinda adds to the whole experience, doesn’t it?
Casual venues like The Cake Café keep things relaxed. Hotel venues stick to higher standards, especially on weekends.
Atmosphere really depends on the place. Historic hotels set the mood with formal drawing rooms and piano music. Modern spots feel brighter and bring in contemporary style.
Most places play soft background music. People chat at a moderate volume so everyone can enjoy themselves.
The three-tiered stand has its own order. Start with savoury sandwiches on the bottom tier.
Next, grab scones with jam and cream from the middle. In Ireland, you’ll spread the jam first, then top it with cream.
Finish up with sweet pastries and cakes from the top. That way, sweet flavours don’t drown out the savoury stuff.
Someone at the table usually pours tea for everyone—they call this person “mother.” Pour the tea first, then add milk.
Hold your teacup by the handle, not the rim. And keep your pinky down—no need to get fancy.
Keep your napkin on your lap the whole time. Break scones by hand instead of using a knife.
Most afternoon teas in Dublin run between 12pm and 5pm. Expect the whole thing to last about 90 minutes to two hours.
Dublin’s afternoon tea scene isn’t just about fancy hotels. You’ll find charming cafés and budget-friendly places that offer fantastic experiences without breaking the bank.
These hidden gems bring genuine Irish warmth and sometimes add creative twists to the usual afternoon tea.
The Cake Café on Camden Street is a real favourite among afternoon tea fans. It’s tucked away behind The Last Bookshop in a leafy courtyard, serving up fresh scones and homemade treats at prices that feel reasonable.
Pink Restaurant is part of Dublin’s new wave of affordable afternoon tea. Open since 2021, it’s got a reputation for creative presentation and fair pricing. They focus on local ingredients and seasonal menus.
Independent cafés all over Dublin city centre offer great value as alternatives to hotel teas. Prices usually fall between €15-25 per person, which is a lot less than the €40-60 you’d pay at luxury hotels.
Many of these spots run weekday specials and early bird deals before 3pm. Some even give student discounts if you show your ID.
Locals keep recommending The Cake Café for its real-deal atmosphere and standout pastries. The courtyard feels like a hidden oasis, just steps from the city’s rush.
Neighbourhood cafés in places like Rathmines, Ranelagh, and Phibsboro serve afternoon tea with plenty of Irish charm. They make their own cakes, bake fresh scones, and pick loose-leaf teas with care.
Local tip: Loads of Dublin cafés let you build your own afternoon tea by picking what you want instead of sticking to a set. It’s a good way to get better value and suit your tastes.
The best local spots stick with seasonal Irish ingredients and work closely with nearby bakeries and tea suppliers. That means fresh goodies every day and a nice boost for the local food scene.
Dublin’s afternoon tea offerings go from classic hotel tradition to creative vegan takes. You’ll find everything from cosy cafés to five-star hotels, each with their own Irish spin on British traditions.
The Shelbourne Hotel tops the list for a prestigious afternoon tea. Guests tuck into traditional treats with Irish extras, like whiskey-cured salmon on Guinness bread, all in the elegant Lord Mayor’s Lounge.
The Westbury delivers five-star service without being stuffy. Their bright lounge has a Champagne trolley, and you can linger for hours if you want.
The Merrion Hotel serves their famous Art Tea, where each sweet is inspired by the hotel’s art collection—definitely Instagram-worthy and delicious.
Bewleys on Grafton Street gives you that classic Dublin experience. This historic spot serves towers of sandwiches and scones with their signature tea blends.
Póg on Tara Street does a great-value vegan afternoon tea. You get unlimited coffee or tea, and they offer fancy options like charcoal lattes and matcha.
The Silk Road Café at the Chester Beatty Library serves up affordable afternoon tea with a global twist. Think stuffed aubergines and chicken paella pots, plus halal, veggie, and gluten-free choices.
The Cake Café keeps things simple and budget-friendly. Hidden behind a stationery shop, it serves mini sandwiches and cakes with prosecco.
House mixes afternoon tea with cocktails at a fair price. Their Bramble cocktail (gin and blackberry liqueur) sets a chilled vibe with relaxed music.
The Merrion Hotel’s Art Tea turns afternoon tea into an art show. Each dessert copies a famous artwork from their collection—pretty cool for both your eyes and your taste buds.
Pink is all about the Barbie Dreamhouse vibe, perfect for group celebrations. Expect classic scones plus modern bites like cacio e pepe arancini, all in a bright pink setting.
House brings a nightlife edge to afternoon tea. It’s part club, part restaurant, serving tea cocktails and traditional treats with a modern beat.
Silk Road Café offers an international afternoon tea in a museum space. Guests sample global flavours like honey and lavender mousse, all served on gingham tables with quirky crockery.
The Cake Café welcomes families with its laid-back, bohemian style. Kids love the relaxed setting and the ever-changing cakes and sandwiches.
Pink creates a fun experience for younger guests with its Barbie-themed décor. The playful vibe and varied menu keep kids happy, but adults enjoy it too.
Bewleys on Grafton Street works well for families thanks to its roomy layout and great people-watching. The familiar foods suit most kids’ tastes.
The Atrium Lounge at the Westin Hotel feels less formal than other hotels. With sky views and colourful edible flowers, it’s a hit with younger visitors.
Grafton Street has two top afternoon tea spots. Bewleys brings classic Dublin charm, while The Westbury offers a luxury hotel experience just off the main shopping street.
The Shelbourne Hotel on St. Stephen’s Green sets the bar for five-star afternoon tea in a historic setting. Locals and tourists both love it.
The Merrion Hotel near the government buildings offers Dublin’s most formal afternoon tea. Its Georgian rooms and art collection make it a truly elegant escape.
House in the city centre mixes afternoon tea with Dublin’s social buzz. It draws a crowd looking for a modern twist on tradition.
The Shelbourne Hotel really sets the bar for afternoon tea in Dublin. You’ll find plush velvet chairs in the Lord Mayor’s Lounge, where old-money regulars and hotel guests mingle, all soaking up that five-star vibe.
At The Merrion Hotel, things get a little more creative. Their Art Tea brings out sweets that look like tiny masterpieces, each one inspired by the hotel’s impressive art collection. The setting? Classic Georgian elegance—can’t beat it.
The Westbury feels a bit more relaxed but doesn’t skimp on style. You’ll spot guests lingering in the bright first-floor lounge, while staff roll out Champagne service from a proper trolley. It’s fancy without feeling stuffy.
If you want something modern, the Atrium Lounge at the Westin Hotel is a solid pick. Sunlight pours in through the glass ceiling, and the kitchen sends out finger sandwiches and cakes topped with edible flowers. It’s a little oasis right in the city.
Ciaran Connolly Killruddery House Tea Room Overview The tea room at Killruddery House & Gardens welcomes guests from Tuesday through Sunday. Staff run it from a converted 19th-century dairy building right beside the historic gardens. You’ll find […]
Ciaran Connolly Killruddery House Tea Room Overview The tea room at Killruddery House & Gardens welcomes guests from Tuesday through Sunday. Staff run it from a converted 19th-century dairy building right beside the historic gardens. You’ll find […]