Boston might have a turbulent history with the beverage (we did turn the harbor into a teapot in 1773), but the city has warmly embraced the genteel British tradition of afternoon tea. There’s something to be said for pausing to brew a pot of tea instead of grabbing a latte to go from the nearest coffee stand. Add a couple of scones with jam and clotted cream, dainty pastries, and finger sandwiches, and you have the makings for the most civilized hour of the day.

It certainly doesn’t hurt that, in many Boston locations, the ritual can begin with a glass of champagne or Kir Royale — or that tea is generally offered in some of the city’s most elegant dining rooms.