When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party
Why Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party is a unique and inviting tea house located in Atlanta, known for its vintage 1940s-style decor and warm, community-oriented atmosphere. With over 65 varieties of tea, the shop offers a wide selection for tea lovers, accompanied by freshly made sandwiches, sumptuous cakes, and thick cookies. Patrons can enjoy a cozy ambiance filled with secondhand tables, bookshelves lining the walls, and quaint lamps, making it a perfect spot for meeting friends and catching up over tea or lunch. Free Wi-Fi further enhances the experience for visitors who want to work or relax. Beyond being a charming tea room, Dr. Bombay's is deeply committed to social causes through its Learning Tea program, which funds the education of young women in India, helping provide scholarships to support their university education and living expenses. The tea house has also traditionally hosted private events such as bridal parties, baby showers, and birthday celebrations, lending a personal and homely feel to gatherings. Recently, Dr. Bombay's underwent a relocation to Grant Park, transitioning its popular high tea service to the dining room of Howdy ATL cafe, where it continues to offer weekend high teas featuring tea pots and three-tiered trays of pastries and sandwiches. The combination of delicious tea offerings, philanthropic mission, and nostalgic setting makes Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party a special destination to meet up with friends and support meaningful causes.
Here's what people think of Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party
As of recent, Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party holds a 4.3-star rating based on 600 reviews.
Reviews of Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party reflect a generally positive experience among patrons, who praise the cozy, quirky ambiance and the broad selection of teas and baked goods. Many reviewers highlight the inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of a 1940s tea room, and appreciate the shop’s community focus and charity work through scholarships. Positive comments often emphasize the quality of the tea and food served, the eclectic decor with books and vintage furnishings, and the welcoming, relaxed vibe which makes it a great place to socialize or hold small private events. However, some negative reviews point to experiences with customer service, particularly regarding large party reservations, which have occasionally gone wrong, leading to disappointment among guests. A few patrons also mention that the transition of the tea service to the new location in Grant Park resulted in a scaled-down operation focused mainly on weekend high tea services, potentially limiting the usual offerings. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many customers valuing the establishment's mission of supporting women's education in India and enjoying the unique charm of the tea room. In conclusion, Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party remains a beloved local spot for its distinctive tea experience and charitable connection, though prospective visitors planning events are advised to confirm arrangements carefully.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mariya Dan
DO NOT BELIEVE THE BAD REVIEWS. This place was cheap and had delicious sandwiches, scones w clotted cream, tea, and victorian cake. The inside is such a cute and kitschy little tea house. It was hard to find because there wasn't any signage out, but it's inside through the bakery doors. There were walls full of books and umbrella decor on the ceiling; it really set the mood. The teacups/plates were also adorable- felt like going to grandma's house. I don't understand the low reviews cuz u can't get cheap afternoon tea anywhere and this spot was the perfect bang for a buck!
Tinatsu Wallace
I enjoyed the decor but otherwise this was a disappointing experience for afternoon tea. I've been to afternoon tea at a variety of places across the US and overseas, because I love afternoon tea so much, and I was excited that with their move to Grant Park, I'd have a tea place closer to home. But I won't be returning here. The staff was very nice, but rarely visible. Most tables hadn't been fully set when we arrived. Silverware and napkins didn't arrive until after the tea and food. And the food took about 15-20 minutes after the seating time to come out. The tea was tightly bagged so it took several minutes after the pot arrived for it to steep to an acceptable strength (although still weak-- I think more tea leaves were needed for the amount of water). There is only one type of tea offered so if you need an herbal or non-black tea, you're out of luck. Food looked and tasted like it'd come from a grocery store bakery. Edible but nothing special and definitely not worth the price. I'd say, if you want a tea party for little girls or if you've never had an afternoon tea experience, Dr. Bombay's may be okay, although I'd still expect the execution to be better. But if you care about good food and good tea, there are more worthwhile places around.
Katherine Mitchell
I will start with this location is great, and the space was really cute. Everything was served in vintage dish ware and the furniture was shabby chic. I think for the price, it was a little underwhelming. If you were to bring your little kid here, it would be a perfect little tea party for them. I’ve had high tea in London, so I know it’s not really fair to compare, but I was expecting a little bit more. For the service: the staff was really nice and helpful when choosing the tea. Water wasn’t offered until well into the service and I had to ask for milk for my tea. Not a huge deal. The staff was super friendly though, and it was a busy day. For the tea and treats: there was a large selection of teas. I thought my tea was a bit weak. I’m used to loose leaf tea, but I understand that it can be messy and most Americans are used to bagged tea, which is fine. It could also have been the variety I chose. I went with herbal, and you need a lot more tea to get it steeped right. I bet a black tea would have been nice and strong and there were over four black tea varieties. The sandwiches and scones were delicious. Clotted cream is super hard to get in the states, so there was a tasty homemade whipped cream instead. I thought the cookies were a little stale and very comparable to something I would get at the supermarket. I also thought there would be more variety of treats and sandwiches on the tray. I think I will give it another try because I love the concept and love supporting small businesses. It also could have been the day that I was there as it was a busy Saturday.
MYCHELLE NGUYEN
Came here because the photos on Google look so cute, and I thought they had a pretty good deal on the afternoon tea set. The vibe: was super cute and relax, perfect place to hang out and chat, or read a book. Service: We waited around 10 minutes before anyone came out from the kitchen to greet us. We got the Caroline and was informed after paying that the price went up from $20-$23 ( the price list on the wall wasn't updated ). They charged $1 for honey but also informed me that AFTER paying! Honey should be complimentary for tea! The food: When the plate arrived, the food looked like they were thrown onto the plate. They couldn't use a nice tray or the tier tray? The food unfortunately looked nothing like the photos, were pretty unappetizing and did not taste good. Everything was dry , stale. The quiche looks like it was more like a flat bread and old. The cream & jelly were missing from the set. We didn't realize that until we finished the set. The tea pot was tea bags , I was expecting loose leaf tea for the tea set. It was truly a disappointment 😞 Overall it's not a spot I would revisit, Esp with so many options in Atlanta
Roanna Rhodes
Had high tea here and it was horrible. More like low tea. We paid $58 for two sandwich's made on stale bread. . The quiche was a size of a quarter and had no crust. And the scones were hard and Burt. The quality of the food was very poor. I had to ask twice for a cup that was not chipped. I eventually received a coffee cup. The tea was served in a metal old dented tea pot with a led that didn’t close. . Absolutely nothing special about this place. Don’t waste your money and time. If you want a real traditional high tea go somewhere else.
How to reach Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party
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Why Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family for a social outing becomes a memorable experience at Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party, a charming and unique tea room nestled in Atlanta's historic Grant Park neighborhood. This venue offers more than just tea; it provides an atmospheric setting filled with vintage decor, cozy book-lined walls, and an ambiance reminiscent of a 1940s tea parlor, giving your gathering a sense of whimsical escape. The ambiance encourages meaningful conversations over delicate pastries, teas, and savory finger foods, making it perfect for bonding moments. On top of the aesthetics and delicious offerings, every purchase supports a greater cause—funding education for young women in India through the Learning Tea scholarship program—adding depth and purpose to your meetup. With a solid rating of 4.3 from over 600 reviews, the place enjoys a strong reputation for quality and hospitality. It also offers free Wi-Fi and a relaxing environment, making it not only a spot for casual tea but also for intimate celebrations and longer visits. In essence, your get-together here becomes both a delightful retreat and a socially conscious experience.
What are the main activities offered at Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party?
Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party offers a variety of activities perfectly suited for groups looking to share time together. The centerpiece is their traditional high tea service, available on weekend afternoons, featuring a pot of carefully selected loose-leaf teas paired with a three-tiered tray of petite sandwiches, scones, and pastries. This elegant ritual encourages guests to relax and savor each flavor while enjoying conversation. Beyond tea, the venue serves ice cream, homemade cakes, cookies, fruit smoothies, and a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with Indian-inspired and classic fare, making it suitable for all-day meetups. The shop also houses a small bookshop and a cozy tea room filled with vintage decorations and old books, offering a tranquil environment perfect for browsing or reading together as part of the visit. Private events such as baby showers, bridal parties, birthday celebrations, and other group gatherings are warmly welcomed, with the possibility to rent the entire tea room for special occasions. Furthermore, monthly private Indian dinners offer a special cultural event that strengthens the community vibe and supports the philanthropic mission of the tea room.
Why is Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party ideal for group meetups and celebrations?
Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party excels as a venue for group meetups and celebrations because it blends a unique atmosphere, diverse menu options, and an accommodating space that encourages connection and enjoyment. The tea room's design, filled with vintage furniture and surrounded by books, creates an intimate yet spacious environment where groups can comfortably gather. The option to rent the entire tea room means hosting private events is hassle-free and exclusive, ideal for celebrations like birthdays or bridal showers that seek a charming and distinct setting. The menu caters to a variety of tastes, from sweet treats to savory sandwiches, ensuring that all guests find something delightful. The tea service itself promotes a leisurely pace, giving groups plenty of time to relax without feeling rushed. Additionally, the location—situated in the charming Grant Park area—makes it easy for friends and family to reach and explore nearby attractions before or after their time at the tea room. Hosting your gathering here also brings a philanthropic element to the event, as proceeds help educate young women in India, making your celebration meaningful beyond the immediate pleasure.
How does the philanthropic mission enhance the experience at Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party?
What truly sets Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party apart from other tea rooms is its deep commitment to social good. Every purchase contributes to the Learning Tea scholarship program, which supports young women in Darjeeling, India, providing them with housing, school supplies, and medical expenses to empower their education. This philanthropic mission gives patrons a sense of participating in something bigger—a community-oriented business with heart. Knowing that your tea or meal directly benefits young women’s futures adds an extra layer of satisfaction to your visit. The tea tins and products sold often carry names that reflect this mission, such as “I Am 17 School Lunches” and “I Am 5 Pairs of Shoes,” which personalize the impact you are making. This connection to a meaningful cause encourages guests to return and bring friends, turning each gathering into an act of generosity. The business founder, Katrell Christie, has also woven her humanitarian work and storytelling into the tea room’s identity, which enriches the experience and conversations that happen in this welcoming space.
What is the ambiance and setting like at Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party?
The atmosphere at Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party transports guests into a nostalgic yet vibrant world. With vintage furnishings, Persian-style oriental rugs, and shelves lined with books, the tea room exudes a cozy, lived-in charm that feels like stepping into a carefully curated storybook. Soft, era-appropriate music often plays in the background, heightening the mood for a relaxing, cultured visit. The decor includes eclectic, thoughtful touches—quirky knick-knacks, colorful tea tins, and charming details that invite guests to linger and explore. The space feels intimate but not cramped, capable of hosting both quiet moments for couples and lively events for larger groups. Thanks to the move to Grant Park, the tea room now occupies a historic neighborhood with a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere that complements the venue’s aesthetic. The availability of free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating encourages more extended visits where friends and family can unwind thoroughly. Overall, the ambiance is a perfect blend of whimsy, comfort, and cultural richness that enhances any group gathering.
What makes the menu special at Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party?
The menu at Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party is thoughtfully curated to please diverse palates while maintaining a focus on quality and unique offerings. With 65 types of teas, the selection is extensive, encompassing classic Darjeeling blends, Assam teas, and imaginative loose-leaf varieties that invite tea enthusiasts and novices alike to indulge. Their food menu blends traditional tea accompaniments—such as finger sandwiches, scones, and petit fours—with heartier options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The house-made cakes, thick cookies, and ice cream add a luscious sweetness that complements the teas beautifully, while fruit smoothies cater to health-conscious guests. The high tea service, a standout feature, offers a beautifully presented three-tiered tray with an assortment of pastries and sandwiches alongside a pot of tea, creating a refined experience for groups wanting something special. Additionally, the venue occasionally hosts exclusive Indian dinner events, introducing guests to authentic flavors while supporting the shop’s charitable mission. This variety and quality ensure that everyone in your party finds something appealing to enjoy.
How accessible and welcoming is Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party for visitors?
Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party is notably welcoming and accessible, aiming to provide a comfortable experience for all visitors. The tea room is located in a walkable and charming Atlanta neighborhood, Grant Park, which is well-served by public transit and has parking options nearby, making group arrivals convenient. The staff is known for being friendly and accommodating, attentive to the needs of groups and private event clients alike. The layout of the tea room is designed to be comfortable and inclusive, with seating arrangements that can accommodate both intimate conversations and larger gatherings. Free Wi-Fi availability allows guests to stay connected during their visits, supporting casual meetups or remote work breaks. Though the business is housed in a historic building, care has been taken to ensure reasonable accessibility, and the owners offer detailed reservation services for private events. Overall, the environment invites everyone to relax, socialize, and enjoy the unique atmosphere without barriers.
Why is Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party a unique venue compared to other tea rooms or cafes?
Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party distinguishes itself through its rare blend of philanthropy, history, and ambiance wrapped around a rich tea culture. Unlike typical cafes or tea rooms, every aspect of this business is tied to a purposeful mission supporting education and empowerment for women in India, creating a profound backstory that enriches the guest experience. The atmospheric setting, inspired by a 1940s tea room, combined with a vintage bookshop vibe, offers a sense of timelessness and intellectual charm. Additionally, the owner's diverse background as a humanitarian, artist, and journalist adds depth to the business's identity, reflected in special events and community engagement. The relocation to Grant Park and collaboration with a local coffee cafe to continue high tea service elegantly ties tradition to innovation, making it an evolving yet familiar destination. For groups looking to connect over more than just food and drink—who want a venue that sparks conversation, learning, and giving back—Dr. Bombay’s stands out uniquely on Atlanta’s cultural landscape.
What types of events can be hosted at Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party?
Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party is well-suited for a diverse range of events, from intimate gatherings to lively celebrations. The tea room offers the option to rent its entire space, making it perfect for hosting birthday parties, bridal showers, baby showers, or anniversary celebrations that require a charming, vintage setting with personalized service. The high tea experience itself doubles as a special event, ideal for weekend afternoon socials or mother-daughter outings. Groups can also organize monthly private Indian dinners, which provide a unique cultural experience combined with the opportunity to support the Learning Tea scholarship fund. The venue’s cozy, book-lined atmosphere supports meaningful conversations and relaxed socializing, lending itself to book clubs, creative workshops, and small corporate events. Thanks to the caring staff and flexible reservation system, these events can be customized to meet different group sizes and needs, ensuring a memorable and seamless experience for every guest.
How does the relocation of Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party affect its offerings and experience?
Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party recently relocated from its longtime Candler Park location to Grant Park, specifically to the dining room of Howdy ATL, a popular biscuit and coffee cafe. This move, undertaken in the first week of April, has resulted in a scaled-back but focused offering: the tea room now primarily serves its popular high tea service on weekend afternoons. While the new location still retains some of the beloved vintage decor and books, other elements of the former shop’s charm were sold off prior to the move. The collaboration with Howdy ATL means that while the tea experience has become more intimate and potentially limited in scope, the business continues to thrive by partnering with a reputable local café. This change offers visitors a chance to enjoy the traditional elegance of high tea in a fresh setting, while still supporting the tea room’s philanthropic mission. Though the ambiance is somewhat different, the core values and unique tea service remain intact, preserving the spirit that has drawn loyal patrons for over two decades.
What do customers say about their experience at Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party?
Customer reviews commonly praise Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party for its warm atmosphere, wide variety of teas, and delicious pastries and sandwiches served during their high tea. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed, elegant experience that feels both vintage and cozy. The friendly and attentive staff, along with the shop’s unique mission supporting women’s education, often inspires repeat visits and heartfelt recommendations. Some reviews note the shared long tables during high tea, which encourages social interaction, though a few guests express a desire for more private seating options during busy times. The overall experience is described as charming and delightful, making it an excellent choice for celebrations, casual visits with friends, or cultural exploration. The business’s strong rating of 4.3 with over 600 reviews reflects consistent satisfaction and community support, making it a trusted spot for Atlanta locals and visitors alike seeking a meaningful and enjoyable tea room visit.