Tea Times Three

 

Over the holidays, I was lucky enough to have the chance to enjoy afternoon tea three times.  Once at the Ritz, where I have been before quite a few times now, and twice at the Four Seasons, one of which I enjoyed by myself.

All three outings were such a great reminder that tea is an elegant yet simple way to relax and connect.  Life slows down when it’s time for afternoon tea.  At each of them, I saw so many families and groups of friends all dressed up and enjoying each other’s company.  These are the kinds of things we don’t do enough these days.

I was also speaking with a friend who lives in Boston where afternoon tea is available at a variety of placed all year long.  She has been to many and always enjoys it for the same reasons, as well as being able to explore the different teas and foods offers, in addition to the ways things are served.

Having previously only been to tea at the Ritz, I didn’t appreciate how it has a bit of a different personality than the Four Seasons tea.  Both were lovely and I hope to try more in the future to contrast and compare and be able to experience different ways to showcase this lovely longtime tradition.

The Ritz knows how to put on a great tea.  For the holidays, live Christmas music, story time, and Santa added to the atmosphere, along with the breathtaking gold décor.  Cookie plates were presented for kids while the adults enjoyed their tea, sandwiches, and pastries.

However, I was really impressed with the Four Seasons, featuring unique teas and tea infused cocktails.  The savory food totally stole the show.  OMG – the puffs and sandwiches and pimento cheese chicken biscuits.  It was a ton of flavorful, well thought out food.  The desserts were also tasty, but perhaps didn’t quite live up to the lofty expectations set by the savory.

Carolers perused the bar inside and out, singing carols for guests.  They were fabulous and filled the whole place with the holiday spirit.

While I know Christmas is over, I hope this post encourages you to investigate what afternoon tea options may be available in your area.  Some may be year round or just for the holidays.  Around here, I have my eyes peeled for Easter and Mother’s Day …