Luxury Hotels Elevate Afternoon Tea Tradition
Afternoon tea, a charming and elegant British tradition dating back to the early 1840s, is finding new life in luxury hotels across the United States as travelers seek to relive the timeless experience popularized by series like Downton Abbey and Bridgerton. With a focus on sophisticated yet relaxed dining, hotels are reinventing this light meal by serving finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet pastries in atmospheres that evoke the romance of the English countryside. Guests are now being transported back in time with settings that range from Tudor-inspired inn rooms to modern, elegantly appointed tea lounges.
At Deer Path Inn in Lake Forest, Illinois, the experience is reminiscent of a traditional Cotswolds manor house. Guests can enjoy the inn’s renowned afternoon tea in the English Room or garden, where an exquisite menu has been developed in partnership with Malcom Ferris-Lay, an English Master of Tea whose family has been in the trade since 1842. The signature tower of tea sandwiches, petit fours, and tartelettes, paired with a selection of loose-leaf teas, sets the tone for a truly memorable experience steeped in tradition.
In Fort Worth, Texas, the Ashton Hotel, a boutique property with two buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers its highly acclaimed Afternoon Tea program every Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. Patrons are treated to seasonal assortments of fresh fruit preserves, finger sandwiches, pastries, and shortbreads. The experience is elevated by a selection of tea blends including offerings such as Cherry Sencha and Sweet Texas Dreams, which capture both local charm and international elegance.
In Washington, D.C., The Watergate Hotel provides a contemporary twist on the classic ritual with its “Spill the Tea” experience. Drawing on its 1960s roots, this afternoon tea is designed for those who appreciate a playful nod to history while indulging in an array of pastries inspired by presidential figures and Hollywood icons. The chic ambiance and carefully curated menu invite guests to savor luxurious teas and treats, perfectly blending tradition with modern sophistication.
Miami’s W South Beach, following a recent $30 million renovation, has introduced Teatime Tranquility, a modern reinterpretation of afternoon tea that allows guests to craft their own loose-leaf blends using organic ingredients, floral notes, and exotic spices. This innovative approach to tea service is a refreshing take on a long-standing tradition, aligning with Miami’s reputation for vibrant and creative guest experiences.
Across the country, iconic establishments such as The Plaza in New York continue to celebrate the heritage of afternoon tea. For over 115 years, The Plaza’s Palm Court has been the venue for a timeless tea experience complete with sandwiches, savories, scones, pastries, and even a special Children’s Eloise Tea designed for younger guests. In Beverly Hills, The Maybourne elevates its afternoon tea with the Prêt-à-Portea: The Red Carpet Collection, where celebrity-inspired desserts and playful couture cakes create a visually stunning and delectable experience.
Other hotels, like The Langham in Boston and the Davenport Hotel in Spokane, offer their own unique takes on afternoon tea, with presentations served on Wedgwood china and in renovated historic settings that capture the grandeur of a bygone era. In Washington, D.C., the Willard InterContinental continues its storied tradition of afternoon tea in the elegant Peacock Alley, while in Las Vegas, the Waldorf Astoria provides sweeping views of the Strip paired with traditional tiered trays of dainty sandwiches and freshly baked scones. Even in Orlando, Florida, the ette hotel surprises guests with a luxurious afternoon tea experience inspired by London’s iconic tea scene, complete with seasonal offerings and enchanting melodies that enhance the ambiance. This resurgence of afternoon tea highlights how modern luxury hotels are embracing heritage and creativity to create experiences that are both nostalgic and innovative, ensuring that this cherished tradition continues to delight guests for generations to come.
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