Afternoon Tea on Mackinac Island
Served in the historic 1852 Grill Room, Rose’s Afternoon Tea invites guests to gather near the windows overlooking the marina for a relaxed afternoon of conversation, harbor views, carefully selected teas, savory bites, warm scones, and delicate sweets.
A Tradition Inspired by Rose Van Allen Webster
Rose’s Afternoon Tea is named after Rose Van Allen Webster, who became proprietor of Island House Hotel in 1892. Alongside her husband, Rose helped expand and elevate the hotel, adding the East and West wings and refining the guest experience.
During her time at Island House, the hotel became a beloved gathering place for Mackinac Island social life. Guests enjoyed elegant parties, ballroom dancing with full orchestras, concerts, and leisurely afternoons overlooking the Straits.
Today, under the stewardship of the Callewaert family, Island House continues that tradition of gracious hospitality. Rose’s Afternoon Tea honors the art of gathering, conversation, and taking time to enjoy the beauty of Mackinac Island.
What to Expect at Rose’s Afternoon Tea
Guests are welcomed into the 1852 Grill Room, one of Island House Hotel’s signature dining spaces, where marina views create a peaceful and picturesque setting for afternoon tea.
Each guest selects their tea, then enjoys a tiered presentation of savory and sweet accompaniments. The experience includes tea sandwiches and savory tarts, house-made scones served with clotted cream and lemon curd, and an assortment of cakes, petit fours, macarons, and truffles.
Champagne, specialty cocktails, non-alcoholic enhancements, and a Children’s Tea are also available for guests who wish to make the afternoon feel even more celebratory. The Children’s Tea offers younger guests a special way to join the tradition, with a thoughtfully portioned experience designed just for children. Please note, Rose’s Afternoon Tea features a set menu curated in advance by our chef, so we are unfortunately unable to accommodate allergy requests, dietary restrictions, or menu substitutions.
Plan Your Visit
Rose’s Afternoon Tea is served daily at 3:00 PM beginning May 30, 2026 and continuing through October 24, 2026. Reservations are required and seating is limited to 28 guests per service. To reserve, book online through 1852 Grill Room reservations or call (906) 847-3347.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rose’s Afternoon Tea is served daily at 3:00 PM beginning May 30, 2026 and continuing through October 24, 2026.
Rose’s Afternoon Tea is served inside the historic 1852 Grill Room at Island House Hotel on Mackinac Island. Guests are seated near the windows overlooking the marina.
Rose’s Afternoon Tea is open to anyone. You do not need to be staying at Island House Hotel to reserve afternoon tea.
Afternoon Tea is $50 per person. Children’s Tea is $25 and is available for children only. A 20% service charge will be added to all checks.
Yes. Reservations are required. Reservations must be made by 11 AM the day of your desired tea service. Seating is limited so we highly recommend making reservations as soon as possible to ensure availability.
There is no formal dress code, but many guests enjoy dressing for the occasion.
Afternoon Tea features a set menu carefully curated by our chef in advance. Because of the nature of this experience, we are unfortunately unable to accommodate allergy requests, dietary restrictions, or menu substitutions.
While our culinary staff takes great care in preparing each item, our kitchen is not an allergen-free environment, and we cannot guarantee that any menu item is free from cross-contact with allergens.
