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    The Queen's Library Tea Room

    4.7 (34 reviews)
    Open 11:00 am - 7:00 pm

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    Lisa G.

    I wanted to enjoy this more than I actually did, especially since I took my sister there for her birthday and wanted it to be special for her since she enjoys English experiences. Starting with finding the place, I couldn't. I live nearby, know the area, and could not find 221 E. Clay St. There's no signage, and there's no door marked 221 on E. Clay St. Where you actually walk in is 414 N. 3rd Street. But they don't advertise that (except by putting a small sandwich board on the sidewalk WHEN they're open) and won't tell you that, even after asking twice. I literally had to photograph the block, circle 3 doors on the photo, send it to them, and ask them which door do we come to. It was like pulling teeth. You have to book and pay, including gratuity, in advance. It's a gamble, but given the high ratings, I took the gamble. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The place is adorable, starting with the gift shop, which is filled with (of course) teas, tea service sets, books (mostly by Jane Austen or similar), accessories, and trinkets. Very lovely. And expensive.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] You're greeted when you walk in, and the service is very professional. The servers look the part, are well-trained and present the service with explanations and a smile. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The tea room is lovely to look at--(mostly) appropriate English style chairs, sofas and small coffee tables, but wasn't at all comfortable for us. We were seated at the very front of the room in two armless chairs, which meant my back was to the rest of the room. I had a view of the door, essentially, and didn't get to even see the rest of the room, which I didn't realize was filled with others enjoying their tea. My sister had a lamp directly beside her head, which she had to turn off to keep from being too hot.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] There are 5 courses of teas, the first and last of which are palate cleansers. The palate cleansing teas were delicious. but did contain caffeine, which we'd hoped didn't. We asked for herbal teas for our service and was accommodated with pleasure (thank you). Of the main three tea courses, I only enjoyed the first, which was truly incredible, very fragrant. Just an explosion of delight for the taste buds. It was a pink hibiscus blend. The second was a citrus blend, but had ZERO flavor. The third was a ginger blend. VERY ginger-y, but unlike any ginger tea I've ever had. It almost tasted like a savory broth. The food served on the tea towers was sadly forgettable. I did enjoy the lemon chicken salad on croissant, but the chicken salad was rationed so thin, I barely knew it was chicken salad. The other sandwich, likewise, was all bread. Such meager servings! Again, forgettable. I literally forget what was on it. I do remember a slight hint of pimento cheese. The second tier of breads, I could've completely done without. But at $65/person, I wasn't leaving a crumb! Even the desserts were forgettable. I expected the food, as minimal as it is for afternoon tea, to be incredible and full of flavor. It was not. Even the tea sets and towers you served with are not as lovely as the ones they have for sale. I expected to use the good stuff. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I was also surprised to see many children's books on one of the book shelves in the tea room. I really would not have been pleased had there been a noisy toddler running around during our tea.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I think the rave reviews gave me expectations that just didn't live up to the experience. I love the story of the owners and I want them to do well. I love tea. I love books. It's a terrific concept. They spoke to us about their new location in Stony Point in such a way that almost pointed out all of the misgivings of their 3rd Street (not Clay Street, mind you) location, and that those things (such as the furnishings and decor) would be a major upgrade. I hope the furniture placement (and comfortability), food and other two herbal tea choices, are too.

    Mary A.

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]I really like the new setting at Stony Point. The lobby is a storefront and then behind one of the bookcases you enter a very well thought out venue[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. The tea includes a 6 course tea tasting - three cold and three hot. The tier of food was tasty as well. We had multiple servers and they were all efficient and helpful. A couple of things gave me pause - I didn't like having to pay in full prior to attending - including the tip. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The restaurant area is large and there were only three groups when I attended so I was disappointed that we were all seated very close together rather than spread out where we had more privacy.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    Afternoon tea
    Lena M.

    If you know me, I love tea time. I grew up going to high tea with my mom and it's been a special tradition for me for ages. I adore The Queen's Library Tea Room. Not only are the owner's incredible, their staff is absolutely great. The entire business feels like a big family. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I adore their new location, they've been in it for quite some time now, but I really love all the space and different rooms.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The natural lighting is so delicious and the various chairs are quite comfy.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I like that the first room is an homage to their first location, the second is a delicious brick room, and the last is a stunning mural room.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The tea tower is my favorite part. They source different bites from different local businesses like Mosaic Catering and 2 1/2 Irish Men. A fan favorite is always the goat cheese bites. I loved the roast beef pimento cheese sandwich this time around. They used to have these little cheesecakes that were my ultimate favorite dessert. They rotate the desserts. For this afternoon tea, you typically get a chilled sparkling tea and three teas they choose for you. Keep in mind their teas are caffeinated, so I've made notes in the past requesting for low-caffeine teas. This is my go-to tea spot in Richmond. You can book a table on their website. There is free two hour parking nearby and they have one gender neutral bathroom. I highly recommend checking this spot out.

    Such a lovely space
    Philip H.

    A Truly Magical Afternoon Tea Experience We had the absolute pleasure of enjoying the full afternoon tea experience at the Queen's Library Tea Room in Richmond with our family and friends--and wow, what a gift this place is. From the moment we walked in, we were transported. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The space is stunning--elegant, whimsical, and full of thoughtful details that make you feel like you've stepped into a storybook.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Every teacup, table setting, and floral arrangement felt curated with love and intention.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The staff were incredible--warm, welcoming, and deeply knowledgeable about the teas and the entire experience. You can tell they care. The owners, too, clearly pour heart and soul into this place, and it shows in every detail, from the menu to the atmosphere. The teas were absolutely delicious, each with its own unique flavor and story. The food was equally impressive--fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Everything we tasted was fantastic. It's rare to find a place that creates not just a meal, but a memory. Our time here felt almost miraculous--something truly special we'll never forget. If you're looking for an unforgettable experience in Richmond, this is it.

    Maria T.

    You'll be treated like royalty at Queen's Library Tea Room! [[HIGHLIGHT]]The space is simply splendiferous! The details are incredible and fit for a princess![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]If you arrive "earl"y, you can browse the gift shop![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] And once you are served their variety of teas, which are introduced with flair, they won't "lord" it over you by hovering, you can relax and have a peaceful tea time! The food is catered from local venues and are selected with thoughtfulness. The owners are lovely and welcoming! What a breathta-"king" experience! We had our company winter gathering here and I dub them the "crown" of glorious tea parties!

    Bloom your tea
    Lauren M.

    Thanks to having a southern belle for a daughter... I've been going to tea for about 10 years now. I've had a lot of "experience's", but let me tell you... Queens Library delivers!!! Go for the ambience, a win across the board. Stay for the food - I love the locally sourced eats and the improvements on tradition (I mean, how many times can you eat a ham biscuit and the same cucumber sandwich at tea before you want some variety). The space is beautifully decorated and the natural brick walls are incredible. The entire staff is so sweet and knowledgeable...and I love that they are family-run.

    Maggie A.

    What a lovely way to spend a morning with friends or family. Made an online reservation (prepaid) for four at their 11am seating time, about a month early. The space is beautiful: colorful antique velvet furniture, beautiful artwork featuring diverse women (as a woman of color, I appreciate their effort to create a welcoming and inclusive environment), and well lit thanks to the large storefront window. Excellent and attentive service from Daniel, one of the owners. They know their teas and partner with local bakeries to put together a delicious and pretty three-tiered assortment of savory and sweet bites. They gave us a little box to take home our extras. Our group could hardly believe 2 hours went by so quickly. If you love afternoon tea, this place is a must. I hope they succeed to grow their space, maybe even add a shop to buy teas and other goodies.

    Our aperitif!
    Lyndsay J.

    What a lovely experience! This wasn't just Afternoon Tea, this was a full-on experience! We learned from the enthusiastic wait staff what tea came from where and how it paired with each course. The food was wonderfully fresh and [[HIGHLIGHT]]it was a very relaxing two hours![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    Racquel H. D.

    An amazing tea room the ambiance is so inviting and the staff were very attentive. The teas were so flavorful. The smells of the teas made it inviting to taste it even more. I loved the food tiers a great balance of flavorful tastes. Great overall experience. I am setting up a tea for my group!

    Tea & cute China
    Elyza B.

    I would say this place is 3.5 stars, but I rounded up to 4. Pros: - staff were really nice while we were there - knowledgeable about the food and drink we were served, could answer questions - super cute decor, nice large space to accommodate groups - the 3 teas we were served were from an exclusive brand, and were really delicious (Irish breakfast, earl gray, and peach black) - they offered dietary friendly options (vegan, gluten free, etc) - they use local places for their food options, which I love to support! - really responsive over the phone and through text - good amount of street parking around (no lot) Cons: - the food did not fill me up enough for a "meal", and $55 per person seems slightly steep for just snack portions - the vegan tea tower was skimpy compared to the "regular" one - we were not given a tea menu, just served teas, so we got no choice option - there were no decaf teas served, so we had to either skip out on a tea or drink additional caffeine - the staff did not time the tea for us, we had to ask about steep times; also left the leaves in the pot so the tea did eventually over-steep on the table - they do not serve water, you have to ask for it separately (I would recommend to the business to bring water when you serve your patrons, tea can be dehydrating!) I enjoyed being here with a large group of friends, but in comparison to other tea rooms I've been to, I prefer an order-off-a-menu style of tea and food, personally. Great place if you want to just be served and not have to think about making choices, though!

    Miss L.

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]The Queen's Library Tea. Room is a quaint, charming venue in the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood.The building dates back to the early 1900's, providing a vintage charm with tin ceilings and exposed brick.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The tea room decor is reminiscent of a Victorian parlor with high backed velvet chairs and ornate couches, and antiques and books placed throughout.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There is beautiful butterfly and floral artwork on walls, windows, and doors.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The tea service is lovely served with delicate patterned china, a tiered plate of assorted tasty bites, and delicious tea steeped right at your seating area. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The seating areas are spread out to allow for private conversations and comfort.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] the owners and staff are lovely and quite attentive and kind. Be sure to browse in the delightful gift shop on your way out. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The only negative comment is the temperature. It was quite hot and humid outside and the AC in the tea room wasn't providing an expected level of cooling.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    Tea for one portions were very generous with variety
    Alex R.

    For one, you need to pay and reserve ahead of time online, and rather than pay for individual items you pay for a 2 hour experience. I'll admit I had my doubts about being sold an "experience", but was pleasantly surprised by how good it was! Not only are all the teas (you get to try 3 over your time there) very good, the foods are all locally made! In a city where so many serve teas with artificial flavors and pre-boxed goods, it was a relief to my palate. Host was a young gentleman clearly very passionate and knowledgable not just of the teas, but the local businesses they supported with the service and the rich history surrounding the brews! also very kind to someone who chooses to go to these alone rather than with groups. I didnt feel neglected and was left comfortably with my book and drink~

    Allison M.

    The food: The food was absolutely amazing. They are able to accommodate a vegan diet and source their goodies from local places, such as the breads from Two and a Half Irish Men. The service: The service was friendly and fast. Hannah took care of me and she was knowledgeable and kind. I would love to come back and see her again. The vibe: I thoroughly enjoy the atmosphere here. I felt like I stepped into the world of Bridgerton -- think kitschy, elevated, and charming.

    The tea is delicious. So much better than a keurig!

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    3 years ago

    The service was excellent and the tea food were excellent. Highly recommend. Would make a great location for a bridal shower or birthday.

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    Ask the Community - The Queen's Library Tea Room

    Which English Queen's tea room is better- the Stony point one or Clay street?

    Great question! We’ve officially moved from our Clay Street location and are now fully operating at our new home in Stony Point Fashion Park.… 

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    Review Highlights - The Queen's Library Tea Room

    They source different bites from different local businesses like Mosaic Catering and 2 1/2 Irish Men.

    Mentioned in 2 reviews

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    CaryTown Teas

    CaryTown Teas

    4.4
    (59 reviews)
    5.4 mi
    $$

    A friend of mine introduced me to this place. It is just down the street from PBR. If you are…read morelooking for a specific kind of tea, you may have good luck finding it here. The store is slightly tucked back and can be hard to find. It is in a quiet area of town as well. Off the beaten path of Cary Street. Inside the store there is a small seated area in the front and throughout . It is really quaint. I loved how the tea is stored in black metal containers. You can get tea made to sip on there, or to go. You can also purchase loose leaf tea. Pricing is reasonable. There is a wide array of loose leaf tea. The three employees were amazing. They were awesome! I can not say it enough. They were so helpful, and they knew their product. If one did not know, the other would know. There is a punch bingo card, which is nice and unique. Parking is located on the street, or public lots throughout Richmond.

    I love this charming tea shop tucked away by the PBR building. There is free street parallel…read moreparking right in front. They have a huge selection of teas to enjoy in the shop or take to go with you. It is a smaller shop so there is limited seating. Do know that there can be a long wait sometimes. When I've went there is usually just one person working. This is a great place to buy a gift for the tea lover in your life (even if it's just yourself). When it is your turn, you get a lot of love and attention. I was looking for some uncaffeinated fall tea and loved trying their rooibos chai tea. You can find all types of teas here and you're able to get them to go in different sizes. I highly recommend checking this lovely place out.

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    Store
    Pricing sign
    Pricing sign
    Huge selection (this is only part of it)

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    Huge selection (this is only part of it)
    Floris at VMFA

    Floris at VMFA

    3.6
    (25 reviews)
    5.3 mi

    We absolutely loved our afternoon tea experience at Floris! We came in July 2026 and Floris was…read moreoffering an Indian influenced menu that paired with the VMFA's Indian mughals exhibition. Tea is in a gorgeous little room across the way from the main museum building- it felt very Bridgerton. Right up front- this is not a typical high tea or afternoon tea in several ways, and you may be disappointed if you are looking for a traditional tea, but it was still a lovely experience. We really appreciated that you can try as many different teas as you want, which is a nice feature I haven't seen at other teas. They even had three or four iced options! (The mango iced tea paired really well with the current menu.) The scones came out first- it was only one scone per person, but they were fresh and warm. The portions for each item on the tea tray are pretty large, some of them are a bit difficult to eat because of the size. Just means we took a few items home to enjoy later! We loved all of the unique offerings- our favorites were the spiced saffron kneer tartlet, the cucumber and mint chutney sandwich, and the palak egg salad sandwich. We really enjoyed our tea and thought it was so cool to have a menu that paired with the museum's current exhibition. Definitely recommend!

    I was treated to Floris for my birthday, and I loved it! The building is traditional with matching…read moredecor. Beautiful. You sit in chairs and tables like a restaurant, which is comfortable (unlike an English salon setting that you'll experience at another tea room). The tea was NOT the star of the show. The food was. Every single thing on the tower was incredible! The only mediocre item was the brownie. How hard is it to mess up a brownie? There was no presentation of the tea. The porcelain was attractive, but plain and didn't meet the vibe of the venue and the event that afternoon tea should be. One of my pots came barely warm when tea should be piping hot. None of them stood out as a favorite, either, which was disappointing. I was also disappointed that they didn't have a huge selection of teas or porcelain for sale. Go for the food and atmosphere, with good company, and you'll leave very satisfied.

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    Presentation - 5 stars
    Presentation - 5 stars
    Tea tower!
    Tea tower!
    Floris tea menu (July 2026)

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    Floris tea menu (July 2026)

    The Queen's Library Tea Room - tea - Updated August 2026

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