Atlanta’s tea culture has grown steadily over the past decade, blending traditional Asian tea practices with the city’s eclectic dining and social scene. From historic neighborhoods like Grant Park to the artsy corridor of Virginia-Highland, tea houses serve as gathering spaces for locals seeking calm and connection outside of the city’s busy coffee shop culture. The demand for quality loose-leaf teas, ceremonial preparations, and afternoon tea experiences continues to climb as Atlanta’s diverse population brings global tea traditions to the table. Many Atlanta tea houses now offer curated seasonal menus, private reservations for small groups, and retail selections of rare teas sourced directly from farms.
When choosing a tea house in Atlanta, look for establishments that demonstrate genuine knowledge of tea origins, processing methods, and brewing parameters. Reputable shops will be transparent about their sourcing and able to discuss the difference between gong fu, Western, and grandpa-style brewing. Red flags include vague sourcing claims, poorly stored teas displayed in sunlit windows, and menus that rely entirely on flavored blends without access to single-origin options. No specific state license governs tea houses beyond standard food service permits, but look for staff who have completed formal tea education or apprenticeships with established practitioners.
Top Tea House Companies in Atlanta
1. Wai’s Gong Fu Tea House
Address: 1385 English St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Phone: (404) 476-6900
Website: https://www.waisgongfuteahouse.com
Hours: Monday-Tuesday & Thursday-Friday 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Saturday-Sunday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Google Rating: 5.0/5
Services:
- Gong fu tea ceremony sessions
- Single-origin loose-leaf teas
- Private tea tastings
- Tea retail and education
About: Wai’s Gong Fu Tea House is a locally owned operation that has spent over 20 years perfecting the art of traditional Chinese tea ceremony. The founder brings a philosophy rooted in using tea as a tool for mental and physical wellness, selecting teas with direct attention to origin and quality. The shop occupies a calm, intimate setting in West Atlanta and maintains a loyal following among both casual drinkers and serious collectors. Wai’s has earned near-perfect ratings across review platforms, reflecting the depth of knowledge and hospitality offered at every session.
2. Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party
Address: 1645 McLendon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Phone: (404) 222-8099
Website: https://www.drbombays.com
Service Area: Atlanta metro, Grant Park neighborhood and beyond
Services:
- Traditional afternoon tea service
- High tea for private events
- Desserts and savory tea pairings
- Exclusive tea room rentals
About: Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party is a beloved fixture in Atlanta’s Grant Park neighborhood, operating for over a decade and building a reputation for memorable afternoon tea experiences. The whimsical, eclectic decor creates a distinctive atmosphere that has earned recognition in publications including Southern Living Magazine and the Huffington Post. The tea room accommodates intimate gatherings of two and larger parties of up to twenty guests, with options to rent the entire space for special occasions. Their years of experience serving both locals and visitors have made them one of Atlanta’s most recognizable tea destinations.
3. Just Add Honey Tea Company
Address: 860 Ralph McGill Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Phone: (404) 343-9975
Website: https://justaddhoney.net
Service Area: Old Fourth Ward, Inman Park, BeltLine corridor
Services:
- Loose-leaf tea by the cup
- Coffee and specialty beverages
- Pastries and light fare
- Tea retail and gift sets
About: Just Add Honey Tea Company is a community-centered cafe and retail shop located along the Atlanta BeltLine between the Old Fourth Ward and Inman Park neighborhoods. The shop offers a carefully curated menu of loose-leaf teas alongside coffee, desserts, books, and gifts in a warm, welcoming environment. Founded by Shuree Wheeler, the business reflects a commitment to making quality tea accessible and approachable for everyday Atlantans. Just Add Honey has developed a strong following among BeltLine visitors and neighborhood regulars who appreciate the cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I look for when choosing a tea house in Atlanta?
A: Start by examining the sourcing transparency of the shop – good tea houses will be able to tell you where their teas come from and how they are processed. Look for staff who can explain brewing methods and guide you toward teas that match your preferences rather than simply selling the most expensive option. A variety of single-origin teas alongside blends indicates a serious approach to the craft. Atmosphere matters too, particularly if you are planning a private event or formal afternoon tea experience.
Q: What does afternoon tea or a tea ceremony session typically cost in Atlanta?
A: Afternoon tea experiences at established Atlanta tea houses typically run between $35 and $65 per person, depending on the number of courses and the quality of the tea selection. Gong fu ceremony sessions can range from $20 to $50 per person for a guided experience. Private event reservations and full tea room rentals are priced separately and can range from $150 to $500 or more depending on the group size and duration. Retail loose-leaf teas at quality shops generally start around $15 to $40 per ounce for single-origin varieties.
Q: What is the difference between gong fu tea and a traditional afternoon tea service?
A: Gong fu tea is a Chinese ceremonial brewing method that uses a small teapot or gaiwan, a high leaf-to-water ratio, and multiple short infusions to explore a tea’s evolving flavors over time. It emphasizes patience, attention, and an intimate connection with the tea itself. Traditional afternoon tea, rooted in British custom, involves a set menu of sandwiches, scones, and pastries alongside a pot of brewed tea served in a more social dining format. Both are offered in Atlanta, though they serve different purposes: gong fu suits focused tea exploration while afternoon tea is ideal for celebratory gatherings.
Conclusion
Atlanta’s tea house scene offers a genuine range of experiences from meditative gong fu sessions at Wai’s Gong Fu Tea House to the celebratory atmosphere of Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party and the accessible everyday warmth of Just Add Honey Tea Company. Each establishment brings its own character and depth to the city’s growing tea culture. Whether you are a newcomer to tea or a seasoned enthusiast, reaching out to any of these three operations will connect you with knowledgeable people who take quality and hospitality seriously.