The Steeping Room

About The Steeping Room

The Steeping Room is Austin's beloved tea house, offering an elegant respite from the everyday with their extensive selection of premium loose-leaf teas and refined café fare. Since opening in North Austin near the Rosedale neighborhood, this charming establishment has become the go-to destination for tea enthusiasts, afternoon tea celebrations, and anyone seeking a moment of tranquility in their busy day.

Known for their afternoon tea service—complete with tiered trays of scones, sandwiches, and sweets—The Steeping Room brings a touch of British tradition to Texas with a uniquely Austin twist. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with natural light streaming through large windows and the gentle hum of conversation creating the perfect backdrop for lingering over a pot of perfectly steeped tea.

What makes The Steeping Room special for gluten-free diners is their genuine commitment to providing GF options for their signature afternoon tea experience, including house-made gluten-free scones that rival their traditional counterparts. For those who have been missing the classic tea house experience since going gluten-free, The Steeping Room offers a welcoming solution.

Gluten-Free Dining at The Steeping Room

The Steeping Room has developed a thoughtful approach to accommodating gluten-free guests, making it possible to enjoy the full afternoon tea experience with appropriate modifications:

• House-Made GF Scones: Their gluten-free scones are baked in-house and served warm with clotted cream and jam—a rare treat for celiac diners
• GF Afternoon Tea Service: Request the gluten-free version of their signature three-tiered afternoon tea when booking
• GF Bread for Sandwiches: Available upon request for their tea sandwiches
• Naturally GF Teas: All pure, unflavored teas are naturally gluten-free
• GF-Friendly Salads: Many salad options can be prepared gluten-free
• Staff Awareness: Team trained on dietary accommodations and cross-contamination concerns

Important Note: This is not a dedicated gluten-free kitchen. While they take precautions, cross-contamination is possible. Always inform your server about celiac disease. For afternoon tea, request GF options when making your reservation so they can prepare items in advance.

The Afternoon Tea Experience

The Steeping Room's signature offering is their traditional afternoon tea service, an elegant experience that transports you to a classic British tea room:

• Traditional Afternoon Tea: The iconic three-tiered tray featuring fresh scones with clotted cream and jam, delicate finger sandwiches with creative fillings, and a selection of house-made sweets and pastries
• Gluten-Free Afternoon Tea: The same elegant experience thoughtfully adapted with GF scones and bread, allowing celiac diners to participate fully in this classic tradition
• Premium Tea Selection: Choose from their extensive collection of over 100 loose-leaf teas from around the world
• Special Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, bridal showers, baby showers, mother-daughter dates, or any celebration deserving of a touch of elegance
• Seasonal Variations: The menu changes seasonally, featuring fresh, local ingredients and creative flavor combinations

Pro Tip: Reservations are highly recommended for afternoon tea, especially on weekends. When booking, clearly mention your gluten-free requirements so the kitchen can prepare your items separately. Arrive with time to browse their tea selection—choosing your tea is part of the experience.

Tea Selection & Expertise

The Steeping Room takes tea seriously, offering an impressive and carefully curated collection:

• Black Teas: Classic English Breakfast, rich Assam, smoky Lapsang Souchong, fragrant Earl Grey, and seasonal blends
• Green Teas: Japanese Sencha, Chinese Dragon Well, Gyokuro, and delicate jasmine varieties
• Oolong Teas: Traditional Taiwanese varieties with complex flavor profiles
• White Teas: Subtle and elegant options including Silver Needle
• Herbal Infusions: Caffeine-free options including rooibos, chamomile, peppermint, and unique house blends (all naturally GF)
• Specialty & Seasonal Blends: Unique house-created blends that change with the seasons

All pure, unflavored teas are naturally gluten-free. For flavored blends, always ask about ingredients as some may contain barley malt or other additives. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you to safe options.

Beyond Afternoon Tea

While afternoon tea is the signature experience, The Steeping Room also offers:

• Breakfast & Lunch: Light café fare including salads, soups, and sandwiches
• Tea Retail: Purchase your favorite loose-leaf teas to enjoy at home
• Tea Accessories: Teapots, cups, and brewing accessories
• Gift Boxes: Curated tea gift sets perfect for tea lovers
• Private Events: The space can be reserved for bridal showers, book clubs, and special gatherings

What to Avoid

Items that contain gluten at The Steeping Room:

• Regular scones and pastries: Standard baked goods contain gluten—always request GF versions
• Standard tea sandwiches: Regular bread contains gluten—request GF bread substitution
• Some desserts: Confirm which sweets are GF-safe with your server
• Certain flavored teas: Some may contain barley malt—ask before ordering

Community Reviews

"Finally, a place where I can enjoy afternoon tea as a celiac! The GF scones are honestly delicious—buttery and flaky, served warm with real clotted cream. The whole experience was lovely and I didn't feel like I was missing out at all." — Rebecca T., Austin

"Brought my gluten-free mom here for her 65th birthday and she was absolutely thrilled. Tears of joy when she saw the beautiful three-tiered tray with everything she could eat! Just be sure to call ahead and mention your dietary needs." — Jennifer K., Round Rock

"Such a peaceful escape from the chaos of everyday life. The tea selection is incredible, and the staff really knows their stuff. Grateful they accommodate GF diners so thoughtfully." — Linda M., Austin