Pinkies up. We love a good cup of steeped goodness, which got us thinking about places across our city where you can enjoy afternoon (or anytime) tea in Raleigh. So get cozy — we’re about to spill the tea.

Casual tea spots

50 Cups, 3512 Wade Ave. | This newer tea cafe emphasizes the health benefits of tea + focuses on the community-building aspect of the space. We recommend an Instagram-worthy pink beet root latte while connecting with other tea lovers.

Heirloom, 219 S. West St. | This zen spot located downtown reigns supreme when it comes to loose leaf tea varieties. We recommend trying the jasmine loose leaf with green tea and jasmine flowers. Though the tea is the star of the show, this premium tea house offers coffee, sake + teapots for sale so you can brew from home.

O.M.Tea!, 3901 Capital Blvd. | Customize the perfect milk tea drink by choosing your flavor, sweetness level, ice level + toppings like boba, jelly, or pudding. It also offers specialty teas like strawberry matcha.

High tea

Afternoon tea at Heights House offers a luxury escape in the heart of Raleigh. | Photo by RALtoday

Heights House, 308 S. Boylan Ave. | Your city editors got the chance to attend afternoon tea in this historic Italianate-style mansion, and it was decadent. We loved the tea options from Rishi Tea and pastries from lucettegrace that rotate every service. Plus, you can't beat the space.

North Carolina Museum of Art, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd. | Dining at this esteemed museum has always been special, but the introduction of tea service (including family-friendly dining) has upped the café. Enjoy canapes, finger sandwiches, and patisserie before wandering the impressive galleries.

The Umstead, 100 Woodland Pond Dr., Cary (~14 minutes from downtown) | This luxury hotel and spa offers traditional afternoon tea, complete with the sounds of a live harp, in its sophisticated lounge area. This spot is open for tea + treats Wednesday through Sunday from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Reservations are required.

Pimiento Tea Room, 200 N. Main St., Holly Springs (~28 minutes from downtown) | You’ll want to snap tons of pinky-up pics here. This Instagrammable spot offers assorted finger foods, scones paired with flavored butter, and yummy seasonal teas like Lemoncello + Citron Butterfly.

Sugar Magnolia Cafe, 219 South White St., Wake Forest (~35 minutes from downtown) | Fresh treats are tiered high at this sweet little spot’s tea service. Bring some friends to try out tea sets like The Donna Lou “Magnolia Tea,” which includes three-tiered trays with traditional mini sandwiches such as homemade pimento cheese and cucumber + cream cheese with dill. Reservations are required.

Fearrington House Restaurant, 2000 Fearrington Village Center, Pittsboro (~45 minutes from downtown) | Take your pick from 19 different teas and a wide variety of pastries and sandwiches. This English-inspired village also offers boutique shopping, a luxury spa, and plenty more.