What is proper etiquette of lunching at a tea room?

I’ve never heard of a Tea Room. But it sounds fancy and I would bring some tip money in case. Etiquette? Avoid being obnoxious. Sounds easy enough.

I went to a very fancy tea room last summer. Dress nicely, but not formal. I wore a knee-length skirt and a niceish top, but there was a lady there in nice dark jeans and a more formal top, too. The etiquette seemed pretty basic. Do what you would do at a more formal restaurant- don’t talk to loud, keep your elbows off the table, that kind of thing.

It is the same as at a restaurant.

@Likeradar

Is tipping done? Do you leave a tip on the table, or in an envelope? I tend to tip with cash, as I feel the server and establishment gets to keep more of it, as opposed to a credit card company taking a portion…

@Seek_Kolinahr Yes, you tip. Leave it on the table.

I probably wouldn’t wear jeans, but anything not too risque or casual would be fine. Tipping and paying the same as any restaurant. Use your “inside voice.”

@Seek_Kolinahr Is this a tea room in central Florida? Name please?

@janbb

It’s the Angel Tea Room, in downtown Dade City (Pasco County). We’re planning on wandering around the antique stores, then lunching there. Unfortunately, their website is completely blank. Alas.

thanks – let me know how it was if you can.

I know nothing of American Tea Roms but they’re popular in the UK, especially in “touristy” towns. Here, we would definitely leave a tip of about the same amount as we would in a restaurant. Tea and cakes. Mmmmm.

@Seek_Kolinahr The one I went to was a sit-down place with waitstaff. Tip. The one I went to was just like a restaurant in that regard.

Yes, afternoon tea is like going to a decent restaurant. Hats and gloves aren’t necessary, obviously, but I would reckon jeans to be a bit casual.

::sigh:: I miss tea at the old Plaza. One used to be able to sit in the Palm Court and have tea, scones, little sandwiches, petit fours, à la carte. Now it’s $60 pp, and you get less than what one once could for 2 people at $30. I didn’t bother in London.

@aprilsimnel Tea at the Palm Court used to be great!

I use to have te at the Brown Palace, where the “unsinkable” Molly Brown use to live here in Colorado, and they have some rules that brunches and tea parties, that might help you.
1) Dresses below the knee are acceptable, but sleeveless is not.
2) No open toed shoes.
3) Have fun and meet and greet.

I hope these help you, have fun.

Under no circumstances must you ever fart. If you must blow out the devils dumplings, then for goodness sake make it a silent bottom burp. Smile knowingly & with great deference at those around you, who may have got a scent of any inclement odour.You may now proceed to enjoy tea with a clear conscious due to your impeccable etiquette.Bravo.

Be sure to refrain from dunking biscuits in your tea, keep your voice no louder than two tones above the chink of a tea cup, and under no circumstance deign to commit blasphemy of her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth.

You certainly can call and ask if there are any dress codes you should be aware of, if you feel unsure.

Here in the UK you would wear something like a tea dress. Quite pretty and not too fussy. Or perhaps a skirt and a nice blouse. Always use your serviette. Just act in a quiet and refined manner.

We would always tip. Your bill would be left on a saucer at your table. Place your cash (or debit/card on the saucer) along with the tip and the waiter/waitress will collect your card/cash from you.

Enjoy your outing… oh I can just taste those cucumber sandwiches now !!