Warm up your pinkies people, because today we're talking about the boujee & beloved, Afternoon Tea. If you haven't been across the pond, you might be thinking, "Well now, I don't really feel all that passionate about this, I think I might go on with my day and read more about Gigi Hadid stepping in trash as she exits her uber with Tyler C.," but HEAR ME OUT...
You get to eat tiny finger sandwiches and petit fours... UHM ADORABLE!? How can you feel bad about everything you're eating when they're so gosh darn small!? And you ARE eating a lot. It's basically an entire day's worth of food in one sitting, so pat yourself on the back for acting with the utmost efficiency.
It's basically encouraged to double fist. One sip of tea, two sips of champagne. One sip of tea, five sips of champagne!! Bada bing, bada boom. You're champagne drunk at 3 PM and feeling fiiiiiiine.
It's an occasion to dress up! Ladies-- you feel me. Fellas-- TRUST ME. Your girlfriend, mom, sister, random girl you met at a bar last week will MELT like Frosty the Snowman as they dust off the adorable pastel dress that's been anxiously awaiting the opportunity to get out of that closet. You're. Welcome.
Now that you're convinced (obviously), the question is... so where do I go in Dallas for this? Of course, I've compiled a list of my top 4 recommendations to get the full Afternoon Tea experience.
1. The French Room at The Adolphus--- You're classy, sophisticated, and like nice things. Or you live by the motto "Go big or go home." The French Room is like the Holy Grail of High Tea. What it was intended, by God, to be. The room itself boasts grand, European architecture with regal details that make you feel like you should curtsy as you approach the table. As expected, the service is top notch to match; and they were VERY accommodating with dietary restrictions and preferences (even gluten-free), despite the pre-set menu.
The $59++ experience begins with a glass of sparkling rosé, followed by the first tea with a selection of finger sandwiches and scones. The cream. And berry preserves. TO DIE FOR. You make it through this first course, and pride yourself on somehow eating every last bite. A look of fear appears, however, as you realize you've only just begun. (You obviously can't back down now... you've made it this far!) So, you sit back, enjoy the next selection of tea, and await the arrival of round 2: dessert.
Now it is at this point that you make a critical decision: fully embrace the food coma & turn down, or make a day of this and TURN. UP! There is absolutely no rush-- so you can certainly take your time, order more champagne, celebrate life & do the damn thing! But also naps and being horizontal on a Sunday. Up to you! Either way, you will have a magical, memorable experience, well worth EVERY penny. Be sure to snap some pictures (pro-tip: probably get some before you stuff your body like a turkey at Thanksgiving...), and take it all in.
Tea at the Adolphus is offered Saturdays & Sundays from 11:30-1:30 PM, and reservations DO book up fast! You may need to look a month or so in advance on OpenTable. The French Room does validate parking, so feel free to just valet at the hotel, and they'll take it from there!
2. Tea at Taschen at The Joule-- If you're looking for something a bit more modern and innovative, Tea at Taschen is your go-to! Of course, would you expect anything less from the coolest hotel in Dallas!? Their Tea Service is served exclusively on Sundays at 2:30 p.m. in the Taschen Library, and the $68 per person includes taxes, gratuity and valet. Expect spectacular savory items such as Brie Tarts and Egg Benedict's, as well as Sweet Lemon Lavender Scones & Coffee Profiteroles. Can I get a "YUM!?" Make your reservation by emailing tea@thejouledallas.com
3. Potpourri Boulangerie-- This hidden gem in Oak Cliff is PERFECT if you're looking for something a little more casual or cost effective, OR if you're planning tea for a group! Their Tea Service is held Tuesday-Saturday from 11:30-1:30 and includes SO MUCH for $40/person. They take groups up to 8, and just require you to call in a reservation at least 24 hrs in advance. AND wait for it..... it's BYOB (with a $10 corking fee per bottle). Hell to the YEAH. To give you an idea of their menu, they course out a yogurt parfait, followed by a blueberry lemon scone, and watermelon salad... and then they ALSO have the Tea Tower complete with sandwiches and sweet treats. COUNT. ME. IN. And of course the place is freaking adorable.
4. Edith's French Bistro-- Much like Potpourri, Edith's is a bit more casual and affordable, which is great for making this whole Afternoon Tea thing a lifestyle. Next thing you know, you'll be giving off those super cool, chic European vibes. This place also has a great offering for children... TALK ABOUT the cutest mommy/daughter date!! Adults are priced $29++ and include the classic tea, sandwich, dessert fixings. And what's great is that they sell wine/champagne, so that's a super easy add-on, but not included if you're trying to just soberly enjoy some tea & crumpets. They do require a reservation 48 hrs in advance, so just book a couple days out, and you'll be good to go!
Comments