Afternoon Tea - The Drake, Chicago, IL

Afternoon Tea at the Palm Court, The Drake Hotel in downtown Chicago was an elegant treat. Seated around the fountain, we selected our teas from a wide assortment of options. Our visit, on a Friday afternoon, meant that there would be live harpist music to accompany our special experience. Once tea was served, we eagerly anticipated the presentation of the three tiered tray.

Loose leaf teas are served in individual pristine white tea pots with personal tea strainers to catch the leaves when pouring into your cup.

The tiered tray included dainty desserts on the top tier, gourmet artisanal finger sandwiches fill the middle tier, and scones and tea breads round out the bottom tier. The little black tray with lemon curd, double Devon cream, and housemade strawberry preserves was placed on the table shortly after we sat down.

The finger sandwich selection included: Cucumber with cream cheese, spiced tomato jam, and baby tomatoes; Shaved Roast Beef, horseradish, arugula, and aged white cheddar on  brioche roll; Thai Spiced Chicken Salad Tartlet with scallion and black sesame. Vegetarian options included Roasted Vegetables on a white bread, and a petite rolled asparagus sandwich.

The Scones and Loaves course included English Scones and Lemon Poppy Seed Bread to be enjoyed with an array of toppings. The dessert assortment featured an Orange Creamsicle Macaron, French Silk Tart, Blueberry Buttermilk Panna Cotta, and Strawberry Shortcake Bellini.

    

            Such a very special Afternoon Tea at The Drake.