Babingtons

Back in 1893, Anna Maria Babington and Isabel Cargill had the shrewd foresight to open, in Piazza di Spagna, one of the most famous and fashionable places in the world, the first tea room in Rome and in Italy.

The idea, which was greeted enthusiastically by the English community living in this neighborhood, was to bring the British tradition of afternoon tea to Italy, where up until then tea had only been used as a medicinal infusion, promoting it as an opportunity to socialize, as was already happening in the many literary cafes around at the time. Since then, Babingtons Tea Room, which is a combination of English elegance and whimsical Roman informality, has continued to host historical and cultural events. It is a meeting place for royal families, politicians, journalists, personalities from the world of entertainment, and famous entrepre¬neurs.

Today it’s run by Isabel’s great-grandchildren, Chiara and Rory, who carry on the family traditions by maintaining the private and confidential atmosphere, excellent service, and the sober, yet exquisitely eccentric style; just a stone's throw from the Spanish Steps.

Babingtons' kitchen has always been open all day. It’s impossible not to be tempted by the English muffins, or hot scones with butter, jam, and whipped cream, but above all, your sense of smell will be captivated by the aroma of numerous blends of tea, from traditional English Breakfast and Earl Grey, to various green teas, delicate Oolong, and all kinds of herbal teas.

Not to mention the specially designed blends, Babingtons Special Blend and Babingtons Royal Blend, a tea that bursts with flavor, gifted to Queen Elizabeth II on the occasion of her visit to Rome. International clientele who’ve had the pleasure of tasting Babingtons blends, can no longer live without them.

Thanks to the online sales around the world, via their website, the company has broadened its horizons. The moment you walk into Babingtons, the hectic world outside disappears, and your senses and soul are overcome by a wonderful, relaxing sense of well-being.