One of the best, and sometimes worst, things about living in Orlando is that it is a very popular tourist destination. Sometimes it makes me wanna scream, but there are some definite perks. One of these is being surrounded by some AMAZING hotels. As locals we may not always start at these properties, but they offer an great variety of restaurants and experiences throughout the year.
Recently I was able to head out to the Waldorf Astoria Orlando for their Royal Tea Experience. I went with a few foodie blogger friends who had been to tea at a few of the hotels around town, so it was fun to hear how this experience compared to others. Even though this is the only tea I’ve been to in town, I can’t imagine getting any better.
During Royal Tea you relax in a comfortably elegant atmosphere and treasure time together as you savor finely-prepared tea sandwiches with fillings such as smoked salmon, cucumber and egg salad and sip premium hot tea while listening to live piano music. Following your tea sandwiches, delight in an assortment of exquisite sweets from scones and tarts to tea cookies and macarons prepared by our talented pastry team. And if you are looking to have the full experience, add a glass of champagne for a “Grand Royal Tea.”
You have to make a reservation for tea, so there are only a limited amount of spots open each Sunday. Also, since there aren’t any walk-ins they are able to do a custom menu each week. Every detail is perfect from the moment you sit down, where you’ll find personalized menus and the most beautiful peacock tea cups you will ever see. I think we all spent about 10 minutes just taking pictures of the tea cups.
Your server starts off by bringing over a selection of loose tea and is able to help you pick out the perfect one. Once your tea is served they bring over a basket of warm scones. The flavor of scones changes each week, depending on what the chef is in the mood to bake. During our visit we had the most delightful pumpkin spice scones. I’m not usually a big scone fan, but I could have eaten the whole basket.
Over the next two hours we enjoyed tea sandwiches, more tea, and of course dessert. What is Royal Tea with some royal deserts? Royal Tea is meant to be an experience, so you will need every minute of the 2 hour time block. Don’t rush this folks – it is worth it to savor every moment and bite.
Waldorf Astoria Orlando Royal Tea
Peacock Alley
Sunday Afternoons
2:00pm – 4:00pm
Adults: $50, Children: $30
Reservations are required 24 hours in advance. Reservations can be made by calling 407-597-5450.
*Disclosure: I was a guest of the Waldorf Astoria for this experience. As always, all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.
