Discovering the Best High Tea Spots in Northern Virginia
Looking for a unique and elegant way to spend an afternoon with friends or family? Consider indulging in the time-honored tradition of high tea. Originating in England in the mid-19th century, high tea typically consists of a selection of teas, sandwiches, scones, and pastries served on a tiered stand. Fortunately, you don’t have to travel across the pond to enjoy this delightful experience. Northern Virginia is home to several high tea spots, ranging from traditional tea rooms to upscale hotels and restaurants. Here are some of the best options to explore:
The Victorian Tea Room
Located in Leesburg, The Victorian Tea Room offers a charming and cozy atmosphere with a variety of teas and homemade treats. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you enjoy your high tea in this beautifully restored Victorian building.
The Ritz-Carlton
If you’re looking for a classic high tea experience with a modern twist, head to The Ritz-Carlton in Tysons Corner. This upscale hotel offers a wide array of teas, as well as delectable sandwiches and pastries. You can also add a glass of champagne to your tea service for an extra touch of luxury.
The Salamander Resort & Spa
If you want to indulge in a truly luxurious high tea experience, look no further than The Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg. In addition to stunning views of the Virginia countryside, this resort offers a delicious selection of teas and treats, as well as the option to add a glass of champagne or a specialty cocktail to your tea service.
The Ashby Inn & Restaurant
For a high tea experience that celebrates locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, make a reservation at The Ashby Inn & Restaurant in Paris. This quaint and cozy inn offers a rotating high tea menu that reflects the flavors of the season.
The Greenhill Winery & Vineyards
If you’re a wine lover, you won’t want to miss the wine-infused high tea experience at The Greenhill Winery & Vineyards in Middleburg. This unique offering features tea-infused wines and a selection of savory and sweet treats.
The Mandarin Oriental
Just a short drive from Northern Virginia, The Mandarin Oriental in Washington, D.C. offers a decadent afternoon tea experience in a chic and sophisticated setting. Choose from a variety of teas and indulge in an array of delicious sandwiches, scones, and pastries.
Choosing the Right High Tea Spot
When selecting a high tea spot in Northern Virginia, it’s important to consider factors such as location, ambiance, menu offerings, and price. Some options may be more budget-friendly, while others may offer a more luxurious experience. No matter which spot you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a delightful afternoon steeped in tradition and elegance.
The Art of High Tea in Northern Virginia
Are you looking for a unique and enjoyable way to spend an afternoon with friends or family? Why not try experiencing the British tradition of high tea? In Northern Virginia, there are several places that offer high tea experiences, ranging from hotels to tea rooms and restaurants.
What is High Tea?
High tea is a British tradition that typically takes place in the late afternoon or early evening and features a selection of tea, sandwiches, pastries, and other sweet and savory treats. It’s a more formal event than a regular meal and usually requires appropriate dress, such as a dress or a suit and tie.
Preparing for Your High Tea Experience
When preparing for a high tea experience, it’s important to make a reservation in advance, as it’s often a popular event and can fill up quickly. Additionally, you’ll want to dress appropriately for the occasion.
What to Expect During Your High Tea Experience
During the high tea experience, guests can expect to be served a selection of teas, usually including black, green, and herbal varieties. They may also be offered champagne or other sparkling wines. The food served during high tea is typically presented on a tiered tray and includes a variety of items such as finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, pastries, and cakes. The presentation and quality of the food is often a main attraction of the high tea experience. Guests should plan to take their time and savor the tea and food, as high tea is meant to be a leisurely and enjoyable experience.
Celebrate Special Occasions with High Tea
A high tea experience in Northern Virginia can be a fun and unique way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a relaxing afternoon with friends or family. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a day out with loved ones, high tea is a great option for a memorable and enjoyable experience.
| Location | Price Range | Website |
|---|---|---|
| The Ritz Carlton, Tysons Corner | $55-$75 per person | https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/washington-dc/tysons-corner/dining/high-tea |
| The Red Fox Inn & Tavern | $32 per person | https://www.redfox.com/dining/high-tea |
| The Victorian Tea Room | $25-$40 per person | https://www.victoriantearoom.net/ |
There are many places in Northern Virginia to experience high tea, including The Ritz Carlton in Tysons Corner, The Red Fox Inn & Tavern, and The Victorian Tea Room. Prices range from $25-$75 per person, depending on the location and experience.
Overall, high tea is a great way to enjoy a relaxing afternoon with friends or family while experiencing a British tradition. So, why not give it a try and indulge in a selection of delicious teas, sandwiches, and pastries while savoring the company of loved ones?
The Art of High Tea: A Tasty Exploration
High tea is an elegant and refined tradition that has been enjoyed for centuries. It’s the perfect way to unwind with friends or family while indulging in a selection of sweet and savory treats. Northern Virginia offers a variety of high tea experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences. In this blog post, we’ll explore what makes high tea so special and share some tips on how to make the most of your next high tea adventure.
What to Expect at High Tea
High tea typically includes a selection of sweet and savory treats, such as scones, finger sandwiches, pastries, and cakes. The tea served during high tea is often loose-leaf tea, with a variety of flavors to choose from. Some popular tea flavors to try during high tea include Earl Grey, English Breakfast, Darjeeling, and Jasmine. Many high tea experiences in Northern Virginia also offer specialty teas, such as fruit-infused teas, herbal teas, and spiced teas.
Pairing Beverages with High Tea
While tea is the star of the show during high tea, some venues in Northern Virginia may also offer champagne or other beverages to accompany the tea and treats. It’s a good idea to ask your server for recommendations on which beverages pair well with the specific tea and food options you choose.
Dietary Restrictions or Preferences
It’s essential to note any dietary restrictions or preferences when booking a high tea experience, as many venues may offer vegetarian, gluten-free, or other options upon request. Don’t be afraid to ask your server about the ingredients used in each dish or tea to ensure that it meets your dietary needs.
Choosing the Right High Tea Venue
Choosing the right high tea venue can make or break your experience. It’s essential to do your research beforehand to find a venue that meets your expectations. Consider the venue’s ambiance, the quality of the food and tea, and the level of service. Some popular high tea venues in Northern Virginia include The Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner, The St. Regis Washington, D.C., and The Mandarin Oriental.
Conclusion
High tea is a delightful tradition that offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With a wide variety of tea and food options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can have a memorable high tea experience in Northern Virginia that you’ll cherish for years to come.
The Art of High Tea: A Guide to Etiquette and Tradition
If you’re looking for a sophisticated and elegant way to spend an afternoon, high tea may be just what you’re looking for. Originating in England, high tea was traditionally served between 3-5pm as a way for the upper class to have a light meal and socialize before dinner. Today, it is a timeless event that continues to captivate people all around the world.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the art of high tea and its rich tradition and etiquette. From dress codes to menu selections, we’ll cover everything you need to know to host or attend a high tea event with style and elegance.
Dress Code
High tea is a formal event, and as such, it requires appropriate attire. Men should wear a suit and tie, while women may opt for a dress or skirt suit. Hats and gloves are also a common accessory for women. This is a great opportunity to dress up and show off your most sophisticated and elegant attire.
Etiquette
Etiquette is a big part of high tea, and it’s important to follow certain rules to ensure that the event is enjoyable for everyone. Guests should wait for the host or hostess to indicate where they should sit. Napkins should be placed on the lap and tea should be stirred gently with a spoon, not swirled. It’s important to be courteous and respectful to others at the event, and to follow the lead of the host or hostess.
Menu
The menu for high tea typically includes sandwiches, scones, and pastries. The food is served on a tiered stand, and it’s customary to start with the savories (sandwiches) and then move on to the scones, which are served with clotted cream and jam. Finally, guests can enjoy the sweets (pastries). Tea is typically served in a teapot and poured into individual cups. Milk and sugar are usually available.
Socializing
High tea is a great opportunity to socialize and enjoy good company. It’s a chance to appreciate the tradition and elegance of this timeless event. Take the time to engage in conversation and get to know the other guests. It’s a great way to make new connections and enjoy the company of like-minded individuals.
In conclusion, high tea is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. With its rich tradition and elegant atmosphere, it’s easy to see why this event has captured the hearts of people all around the world. Whether you’re hosting a high tea event or attending one, be sure to follow the dress code, etiquette, and menu selections to enjoy a truly sophisticated and memorable experience.
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