I’ve only had high tea a handful of times, as I’m not much of a tea-drinker. But high tea at a grand hotel is something entirely different. It’s not just tea or sweets; it’s a way of slowing oneself down and savoring the moment.
On a Sunday, after a symphony concert at Benaroya Hall, we arrived at the at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel in Seattle around 3:50 pm, not knowing what to expect, as the hotel operator had told us that high tea at the Georgian Room ended at 2:30 pm (we later found out that she was mistaken–Sunday is the only day when tea runs to 5:00 pm).
As it turns out, high tea–which they call The Georgian Tea, after the room where it is served–was available.
I felt a bit disappointed that we were nearly the only customers in the cavernous Georgian Room. One table was leaving just as we arrived, but then another table showed up soon after. Still, it would have been more convivial if the place had been more occupied (perhaps we were a bit late for tea).
The Layout: Savories and Sweets
Tea choices at The Georgian include eight teas, such as Earl Gray, 1907 Blend (described as a “unique blend is a luxury black tea with hints of oak cask and a dusting of delicate citrus,” Jasmine Green Tea, Peppermint Tea, and more.
Then we were given a three-tiered tray with sweets on top, savories in the middle, and more sweets on bottom. While you are free to eat whatever you want, whenever you want, it’s suggested that you work your way downward.
- Top Tier: Lemon Poppyseed Scones with Marmalade and Devonshire Clotted Cream.
- Middle Tier: Roasted Chicken and Waldorf Salad on Walnut Bread; Sliced Cucumber with Avocado Mayo on Rosemary Bread; Smoked Salmon Bagel with Cream Cheese, Capers and Sliced Egg; BLT with Bacon, Iceberg Lettuce and Tomato Chutney on Sourdough Bread.
- Bottom Tier: Pistachio Raspberry Gateau; Honey Crunch Hucklepuff; Chocolate Coconut Rocher; Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake.
All of this was preceded by fresh berries in a chilled stem glass.
The Experience
Our server, Kerry, was great about describing every item presented to us. She was attentive, without being in our faces. Because she was setting up The Georgian Room for dinner, she was always nearby if we needed her.
The oaky-flavored 1907 Blend tea was an excellent choice and a departure from the usual Earl Gray. It had the black tea kick, but not the bergamont taste, which sort of sticks in my throat.
I loved the scones and clotted cream. I could have made this my entire meal.
The savories were good. Some of the bread felt a bit dry, though.
We were unable to finish that last tier, and took the rest home in a box.
Cost
Cost was $39 per person. With tax and tip, the bill ran to about $100.
