Dearest American Gentry, Lady Passport to Palates Serves Up Societal Secrets: The Finest Afternoon Teas in Our Neck of the Woods

Transatlantic whispers abound of Bridgerton’s imminent return, and with it, a renewed fascination for all things refined. Afternoon tea transcends mere sustenance; it’s a delightful social occasion brimming with gossip (though this humble author remains tight-lipped, of course). Fear not, dear readers, for Lady Passport to Palates, ever the purveyor of propriety, unveils five esteemed establishments across the vast American landscape. These spots cater to every purse string and social preference.

1. The Palm Court at The Plaza (New York City):

For those yearning for opulent indulgence, The Palm Court at The Plaza reigns supreme. Imagine, dears, a veritable symphony of finger sandwiches, each morsel a masterpiece of culinary artistry. Scones, as light and airy as a debutante’s dreams, await your discerning palate, accompanied by a symphony of loose-leaf teas. Reservations are a necessity, and attire should reflect the grandeur of the surroundings. A touch of Gilded Age glamour, wouldn’t you agree?

• Price Range: $120pp to $214pp, $95 for children 12 and under
• Reservations Required
• Dress Code: Formal Attire
• Operating Times:

2. The Georgian Room at The Peabody (Memphis, Tennessee):

For a taste of Southern charm, The Georgian Room at The Peabody beckons. This historic hotel boasts an afternoon tea experience as elegant as a debutante’s cotillion. Imagine, indulging in delicate pastries amidst the echoes of Memphis’s rich history. Reservations are highly recommended, and while the setting is sophisticated, a tasteful dress code allows for a touch of Southern hospitality.

• Price Range: $59pp, $30 for children 12 and under
• Reservations Highly Recommended
• Dress Code: Smart Attire
• Operating Times: Thursday – Sunday – Noon – 3:30pm

3. The Drake (Chicago, Illinois):

Venturing to the bustling metropolis of Chicago? The Drake Palm Court offers a delightful respite. This charming hotel serves a quintessential afternoon tea, complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and a delightful selection of teas. The elegant setting evokes a bygone era, and the dress code allows for a touch of personal style.

• Price Range: $71pp, $35 for children 3-12 years old
• Reservations Highly Encouraged
• Dress Code: Smart Casual, Tea Party Gloves Optional
• Operating Times: Thursday – Sunday – Noon – 4:30pm

4. The Langham Huntington, Pasadena (Pasadena, California):

For a touch of Hollywood glamour, The Langham Huntington in Pasadena offers a delightful afternoon tea experience. Imagine, indulging in delicate pastries under the California sun, perhaps catching a glimpse of a Hollywood starlet. Reservations are recommended, and the dress code allows for a touch of Californian chic.

• Price Range: $79pp, $40 for children 12 and under
• Reservations Required
• Dress Code: Smart Casual, Tea Party Gloves Optional
• Operating Times: Thursday – Sunday – 10:00a – 3:30pm

5. Crown & Crumpet Tea Salon (San Francisco, California):

For a charming and affordable escape, San Francisco’s Crown & Crumpet, enchants. Nestled in the New People Building, they offer a very classic and very proper English Afternoon Tea experience. They serve delicious tea sandwiches and savories, toasted crumpets, scones with clotted cream and jam and a delightful selection of sweets & treats all on a three-tiered stand.

• Price Range: $44pp, $28 for children 12 and under
• Reservations Required on the Weekends
• Dress Code: Casual
• Operating Times: Thursday – Monday – 11:00a – 4:00pm

With this knowledge in hand, embark on your own delightful teatime adventures. Remember, a well-timed invitation to afternoon tea can blossom into delightful conversation, the forging of new friendships, or perhaps… even a touch of transatlantic romance. After all, wouldn’t it be simply divine to find your own American Colin Bridgerton amidst the scones and clotted cream?

Yours truly,

Lady Passport to Palates

Feature image is by Freepik