Afternoon Tea dates back to as early as the 19th century with roots in the UK. As a way to relax, celebrate, and socialize, small bites, sandwiches, sweet treats and delicious tea are the perfect indulgence especially at these luxe destinations. We’ve put together some of our favorite private tea experiences that are certainly worth traveling for with unique history, culture, and culinary delights:
The Peninsula Beverly Hills | Beverly Hills, California (pictured)
The Peninsula Beverly Hills Afternoon Tea is known as one of LA’s most beloved hotel traditions, and starting next month, this iconic tea is getting a fabulous “best friend” with the hotel’s newest endeavor: Tea Party. Showcasing the brands’ iconic heritage and years of tea expertise, the latest launch will have all the makings of the celebrated tradition, plus a chic new spin with a rotating series of collaborations in fashion, beauty and art. Taking place on The Belvedere Terrace every Saturday and Sunday, The Peninsula Beverly Hills Tea Party will feature hand selected eclectic, antique China and glassware, floral themed cocktails (think “Rose is Rose” made with Leblon Cachaca, Puerto Rican Rum, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur , Yuzu and Sadaf Rose Water) and an endless flow of bubbles from Laurent Perrier Brut, Rose or Blanc de Blanc. Of course no Tea Party would be complete without a selection of tea, and a selection of iced tea will be offered - from Pacific Coast Minto to French Lemon ginger and Egyptian Chamomile. Guests can delight in delicious savories, with tea sandwiches including house smoked salmon, lemon and caviar; English cucumber, mint, lemon and pumpernickel; or charred zucchini with asparagus, tomato and pesto. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in ever changing pastries, or scones served with lemon curd and homemade jam. And because every party needs a playlist, the Tea Party will boast a DJ throughout the day. The Tea Party will be offered on Saturdays and Sundays, at $95/person beginning May 6th.
The Hermitage Hotel | Nashville, Tennessee
The Hermitage Hotel has partnered with Nashville native Reese Witherspoon’s Draper James for a collaboration that marries two brands beloved by the Nashville community. The partnership is celebrated with an Afternoon Tea service named “Spillin’ Tea with Draper James,'' inspired by recipes from Witherspoon’s cookbook, Whiskey in a Teacup. Guests are served delicious tea sandwiches, tarts, scones and desserts, and even Whiskey in a Teacup, a nod to the hotel’s infamous Prohibition-era “secret.” Additionally, tablescapes feature the new signature print “The Hermitage Ditsy Floral” custom designed by Draper James for The Hermitage Hotel. The tea is offered Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00pm and reservations can be made on Resy here.
Perry Lane Hotel | Savannah, Georgia
While so many cultures participate in various forms of tea rituals, the South has embraced the tradition in a way that makes it all its own, from the exquisite tea sets and indulgent bites to soothing selections and touches of booziness for those that dare. This month, Perry Lane Hotel, the quintessential Savannah hotel located in the historic district, launched a private afternoon tea in the library for groups of up to eight people. A popular offering for bachelorette parties and for brides to extend weekend wedding festivities with a pre-wedding day private bridal tea, the private tea party embraces the Southern tea time tradition and features an exquisite tea set with a variety of hot teas, indulgent sweet and savory bites such as tea sandwiches, house-baked pastries and more. Groups are also welcomed with a zero-proof cocktail and the option to add spirits with tea time cocktails. The private tea party in the library is $500++, and must be booked in advance.
La Concha Resort | San Juan, Puerto Rico
Located on the beach in San Juan’s chic Condado neighborhood, La Concha Resort is the premier beach lifestyle resort in Puerto Rico, offering oceanfront accommodations, a happening pool scene, unique culinary outlets, and a buzzing nightlife – perfect for group getaways. Adding to the resort’s social programming, La Concha Resort unveiled a new Cabana Tipsy Tea Party package. Putting a spin on traditional afternoon tea and drawing from the resort’s tropical atmosphere and sunkissed setting, the Cabana Tipsy Tea Party offers groups an afternoon tea experience to remember including a private oceanfront cabana at Sereno, sparkling tea signature cocktails upon arrival, a variety of flavor-infused teas and botanical cocktails and/or mocktails, and assorted treats such as seasonal fruit, petite desserts and freshly baked pastries for the ultimate tea-time experience in paradise.
Hôtel Swexan | Dallas, TX
Set to open in June 2023, Hôtel Swexan offers the confluence of Texas charm and international European flair with bespoke guest amenities, an energetic nightlife, and sophisticated culinary experiences, including a traditional afternoon tea on Friday, Saturday & Sunday afternoon at Isabelle’s. Located at lobby level, Isabelle’s will serve a cafe-style breakfast and lunch with afternoon tea offerings, and transform into a martini bar in the evening. The luxury tea program was inspired by the grand hotels of London and Paris, allowing guests to enjoy the combination of sweet and savory with classics like Cucumber & Caviar Tartine or Tea Sandwiches side-by-side, with craveable pastries and sweets reflecting the fruits of the season. A selection of teas, coffees, sparkling wine and aperitifs ensure a perfect accompaniment, whether you are hoping for the traditional experience or something more celebratory.
Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection | Telluride, Colorado
Madeline Hotel & Residences is a stunning alpine resort in the historic town of Telluride, Colorado. The 83-room and 71-residence hotel blends Auberge’s distinctive flair for authentic and elevated experiences with the local flavor of the destination. Reconnect with nature and yourself in this once-in-a-lifetime experience: a guided trek and private tea ceremony in the picturesque mountains of Telluride led by Colin Hudon, the founder and owner of Living Tea and Mountain Gate Teahouse in downtown Telluride. Discover the beauty of the Box Canyon and an incredible vista where you'll spend time in meditative tranquility, celebrating nature and the profound sacredness of everyday activities like drinking tea.
