No single meal embodies “quality time with your mom” more than afternoon tea. Traditional tea service, with its tiered trays, crustless finger sandwiches, and multi-layered desserts, can seem a bit fussy, but tea seems to be having a bit of a moment these days. Maybe it’s our collective search for small luxuries in an unpredictable economy or a yearning for simple pleasures in complicated times, but hot tea is hot stuff right now, with several local restaurants offering different levels of experiences. Read More
No single meal embodies “quality time with your mom” more than afternoon tea. Traditional tea service, with its tiered trays, crustless finger sandwiches, and multi-layered desserts, can seem a bit fussy, but tea seems to be having a bit of a moment these days. Maybe it’s our collective search for small luxuries in an unpredictable
Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page.
Article content
No single meal embodies “quality time with your mom” more than afternoon tea. Traditional tea service, with its tiered trays, crustless finger sandwiches, and multi-layered desserts, can seem a bit fussy, but tea seems to be having a bit of a moment these days. Maybe it’s our collective search for small luxuries in an unpredictable economy or a yearning for simple pleasures in complicated times, but hot tea is hot stuff right now, with several local restaurants offering different levels of experiences.
Article content
Story continues below
Article content
Article content
Yes, afternoon tea is generally a formal dress-up kind of affair, but it’s not as complicated as those elaborate tea set-ups may suggest. While the specifics will differ, an afternoon tea basically consists of beverages (tea, but maybe Champagne as well) served alongside three courses of snacks, typically consisting of scones and spreads, savoury sandwiches and sweet pastries, usually served on tiered platters.
Article content
Noon News Roundup
Article content
Many Calgary restaurants that don’t typically do afternoon tea service are hosting special Mother’s Day teas this weekend, and you might be able to still snag a reservation, but if not, these places host tea services regularly throughout the year. Keep in mind, reservations are necessary for all of these tea services, usually 24 or 48 hours in advance.
Article content
Article content
Hutch Café
A cushy little restaurant and coffee spot in Eau Claire just steps away from the Peace Bridge, Hutch Café opened in 2020 to showcase the local Hutch brand kitchenware and remains one of Calgary’s best-kept secrets. The restaurant’s regular menu of understated European classics is reflected in its traditional tea sets ($98 for two people), served with the requisite smoked salmon and cucumber sandwiches, truffled devilled eggs, macarons, financiers, and slices of seasonal cake, along with a selection of French Kusmi tea.
Article content
Story continues below
Article content
Hutch also just launched a new, grander tea option, focusing on seafood ($168 for two people) featuring most of the same goodies as the regular set, along with juicy shrimp cocktail, truffle scallop blinis, and lobster vol au vent with a mocktail or glass of sparkling wine included. Hutch also offers to-go afternoon tea options, packaged in a special cardboard tiered tray for elegant takeaway. Tea is available Tuesday through Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m.
Article content
795 1 Ave SW, 403-454-8823, hutchcafe.com
Article content
Article content
Fairmont Palliser Hotel
Afternoon tea and Canada’s grand railway hotels go hand-in-hand, and our Palliser has been hosting afternoon tea since 1914. A fresh new spring menu ($79 per person) is debuting this weekend — expect seasonal sandwiches, housemade pastries, and scones fresh from the oven, all served in the opulent Hawthorn dining room with live music to enjoy as you clink glasses and demurely nibble on the snacks. Drinks include Fairmont’s signature LOT 35 loose leaf teas with the option of Prosecco or Champagne at an additional cost. Available Saturdays and Sundays 12 to 3 p.m.