Although the concept of tea itself dates to ancient China and tea service was enjoyed by King Charles II in the 1600s, it wasn’t until 1840 when England’s Duchess Anna of Bedford got a hankering for a late-day sip and snack that formal high tea became a social event in popular culture. In the Valley, high tea as a social event has been elevated to that of an art form, especially in May given Mother’s Day.
For those who want a traditional high-tea service, look no further than the English Rose Tea Room (CarefreeTea.com). Situated in the heart of beautiful Carefree, English Rose has developed a reputation for providing an authentic experience thanks British native Jo Gemmill, who in addition to owning and operating the tearoom is also a certified etiquette instructor. From a simple scone with Devon cream to The Duchess of Bedford’s Formal Afternoon Tea, there is something for every discerning tea lover’s palate.
English Rose boasts more than 50 loose leaf teas from which to choose, and the formal tea service includes three courses—tea sandwiches with perfect chicken salad, fresh cucumbers, rich cream cheese, and more, as well as scones and a three-tier tray of petit fours and other mini desserts—plus a pot of tea for each guest.
Beyond the epicurean experience, Gemmill has gone to great lengths to transport diners to her home country. Her attention to detail is apparent in the furnishings and decor and extends to the outside dining patio, which offers a lovely garden setting. Sumptuous fabrics, crystal chandeliers, and English china provide an elegant and unforgettable experience. From time to time, Gemmill also hosts themed tea parties—think Disney princesses, The Nutcracker suite, and even Harry Potter.
The Phoenician (ThePhoenician.com) also has a rich history in observing afternoon tea. For more than 25 years, the AAA Five Diamond resort has relished the ritual. Held for years just off the main lobby of the resort, the full tea experience includes a luscious three-course menu of delicate, house-made finger sandwiches, fresh scones with Devonshire cream and fruit preserves, and opulent, colorful pastries—all complemented by a diverse selection of fine tea blends.
Those in the know opt for the Royal Tea enhancement, which includes all of the above plus a glass of Champagne (or two).
Of course, there are those who buck tradition altogether, opting to create their own take on tea service. Case in point: the tipsy tea party at The Camby (TheCamby.com). Offered monthly at the hotel’s Bees Knees outpost, this spirited iteration features antique teapots whose contents have been turned up a notch. Why? They have been infused with actual spirits and house syrups, transforming them into tea-infused craft cocktails. This twisted take also includes several courses of elevated sweet and savory bites, presented tableside every few minutes by the attentive wait staff.
Finally, offering a charming new take on an Old-World tradition but without going quite as unique as The Camby is Mountain Shadows (MountainShadows.com). The resort at the base of Camelback Mountain recently launched a new Tee Party menu at Rusty’s, which is the combination grill and lounge at its picturesque Short Course. There are standard finger sandwiches, including bacon with spinach, grilled zucchini with romesco sauce, and egg salad with smoked paprika aioli, as well as petit fours, and both tea and iced tea. For an enhanced fee, you can also opt for JP Chenet Sparkling Wine or a themed cocktail such as a vodka-spiked iced tea.
Sumptuous fabrics, crystal chandeliers, and English china provide an elegant and unforgettable experience.
