In downtown Denver, there is a historic hotel and spa called The Brown Palace. On the offered tour, you can learn of its rich background--including the stone carved after Colorado animals that adorn the top floors, or the ghost rumors as such hotels seem to have.
But what I know and love about the hotel is the Afternoon High Tea. It really has no rival (unless you want to travel to the UK). It takes place in the center of the hotel, with squishy couches, a live pianist and glass privacy walls to separate from the hustle and bustle of the everyday crowd but still allow adequate people-watching. They use the heavy silver tea service that you just don’t see anymore, with strainers atop each china cup to catch the leaves. The tea list is extensive, the service impeccable, and the food--oh yes.
My sister, mom, and I have been to the Brown Palace Afternoon Tea--and a few other places--several times now, and are not ashamed to admit that food is really the best part. In keeping with tradition, three things must be honored: scones, tea sandwiches, and Devonshire cream. And refills.
Since we can’t go out to tea as often as we’d like (weekly is preferred!), we have taken to hosting them for ourselves. Suffice to say, sometimes they get out of hand and the nibbles become the star. And throughout the years, we’ve come up with some simple guidelines to a proper tea party instead of a lunch with tea.
Here’s what you need for a good High Tea:
A nice Tea Set: It’s just not right if you’re drinking out of mismatched coffee cups. Two Christmases ago my parents found me a full 70-piece antique set: delicate china with little pink roses painted on it--it’s my pride and joy.
Cream & Sugar: Normally I actually don’t have all this in my daily tea, but in the moment it’s a must. We usually have almond milk out for me and my sister’s favorite creamer, plus honey and turbinado sugar. And at least have one interesting tea, although we set out a selection since we love tea so.
Scones: A MUST. If these aren’t at your tea party then it isn’t a tea party!! I like a plain one you can slather with Devonshire cream and jam (like my Vanilla Bean Cream Scones), plus a flavored one you can smother in butter (not traditional but not sorry).
Tea Sandwiches: I like a classic herb butter spread on white bread with slices of cucumber, or an egg salad. But truly any sammie flavor will work as long as it’s served either openfaced or with the crusts cut off.
Also, dress up. Tea parties are a nod to little-girl-you that sipped imaginary tea from an empty miniature cup at a table with your stuffed animals. It only makes sense that adult-you should put on a dress, perhaps a hat (at least comb your hair) and pretend you’re a princess for a day.
And plan your tea accordingly. Whether you’re going out or hosting, this should fill you to the brim if you’re wholeheartedly enjoying it like we do. We’re talking carbs smothered in sweet and savory and cup after cup of hot liquid (usually followed by a nap).
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