TeaLee's Teahouse & Bookstore

I made a reservation several weeks in advance for high tea for myself and five girlfriends because we were excited to try something new together. The concept sounded perfect: a traditional three-tiered tray of finger sandwiches and sweets, a plated item like quiche, and bottomless tea over a three-hour reservation. To start with the positives, the staff were kind and polite, and the owner was accommodating when our group size increased closer to the date. The tea was good, and I appreciated that the teapots were kept warm with tea lights. The space itself is charming, and we genuinely enjoyed having time to sit and catch up. The food was delicious, they are amazing cooks. The biggest issue was the timing of the food. In every afternoon tea I have attended, the three-tiered tray is brought out shortly after being seated so guests can graze while enjoying tea. A plated item may follow later, but there is always something to snack on early in the experience. Here, we went almost two full hours without any food at all. The quiches arrived around the two-hour mark, and the three-tiered tray, which is the centerpiece of afternoon tea, did not arrive until about fifteen minutes before our three-hour reservation ended. No one was rushing us out, and we did enjoy being together, but waiting an hour and a half to two hours for any food simply is not reasonable. We were genuinely hungry for the first half of the visit and then suddenly had a large amount of food placed in front of us near the end. Instead of grazing leisurely, we were left trying to eat everything in a short window of time. With a reservation made weeks in advance and only one other small table present, it was surprising that nothing was delivered within the first hour. Even reversing the order and bringing out the tiered tray first would have completely changed the experience. We also received only one three-tiered tray for six people at a price comparable to other Denver tea houses where each guest receives their own. When we asked for boxes to take the remaining items home, we were told they only had paper sleeves. Afternoon tea items are delicate by design, and paper slips are not suitable for transporting layered finger foods without crushing them. Given that the tray was delivered minutes before the reservation ended, proper takeaway containers should have been available. Tea service was steady for much of the visit, but toward the end all three teapots sat empty for about ten to fifteen minutes, and I had to go upstairs to request a refill. This was secondary to the food timing, but it added to the overall sense that pacing and oversight were lacking. I truly wanted this to be a special afternoon, and I appreciate the kindness of the staff and the availability of vegan options. However, afternoon tea should feel thoughtfully paced, with food arriving early enough for guests to graze comfortably. Waiting nearly two hours for any food and then receiving the full tiered tray minutes before the reservation ended does not align with what high tea is meant to be.

Great spot for a cup of coffee or tea while studying, working, reading or having a meeting. Downstairs they have games and books and upstairs tables with a cozy and inviting feel. Location is great and it can get busy quickly. Try the sanctuary honey tea or the chai masala.

A wonderful experience at this hidden gem in the 5 Points neighborhood. Excellent service by the warm and friendly staff. I asked for a recommendation on a sweet selection then requested to be surprised by the chef’s choice. She did not disappoint! The tea cookie she baked that morning melted in my mouth and had a lovely subtle flavor of sweet potato. The salmon cucumber toastie was delicious was well balanced with Kewpie mayo and rosemary. The jade oolong tea was a great match with the meal selection. Planning on a return visit in the near future!

Delightful Sunday, brunch and tea today! Loved the charming and cozy atmosphere. TeaLee’s is unpretentious yet full of character. I enjoyed the relaxed pace - being able to sip my tea and savor made-to-order quiche and crab cakes and not feel rushed. I was fortunate to be able to park on the street in front of the establishment, but nice to have the convenience of a paid parking lot across the street. Next time, I will enjoy some tea downstairs in their lovely book room.