High Tea at the Rittenhouse Hotel

Granted I’m more of bawdy broad than a lady, but since it’s the same gender I think it’s close enough.

I always wanted to try a real high tea and fortunately I have several friends to join me for this new experience. High tea is a traditionally from Britain that takes a person from the lunch to dinner. Think of it as light brunch in the late afternoon.

I chose The Rittenhouse Hotel in Philadelphia for our event. The hotel hosts the tea seven days a week from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.  Dress is casual, but Dexter and I chose to glam it up since we don’t do these sort of things very often. Trust me I was thinking of buying a parasol and lace gloves for the event.

We were sat in the Mary Casset dining room where a table set with cheerful china were waiting for us. The room was bright and sunny on this chilly March day. We can see the soon-to-be blooming gardens from where we sat. I mentally made note that we must try this again in May when everything will be warm and colorful outdoors.

Our menu allowed us several options: A commemorative menu for the marriage of Prince William of Wales, which consisted of a pot of tea, finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, and petit fours. The Kate Middleton’s selection was comprised of tea, pastries, and petit fours. Lastly the a la carte included either pastries, finger sandwiches, petit fours, or special selections.

Three of us chose Prince William and my other friend chose the a la carte. You clearly cannot go wrong in whatever you choose.

The Rittenhouse made provisions for the vegetarians in the group. I, on the other hand, have no problems eating most things. The sandwiches delivered were smoked salmon, cucumber, cantaloupe, with minted mascarpone cheese on pumpernickel, traditional egg salad on a firm white bread, chicken salad-caesar style on a mini croissant.

The sweets included were chocolate dipped strawberries (what’s not to like about that unless you don’t like chocolate or strawberries, and if so, more for me!); lemon pyramids – a lemon custard on a butter cookie base; chocolate madeleines with a creamy raspberry filling; and profiteroles (cream puffs to the commoner).

Lastly we were given currant scones with lemon curd, devonshire cream, and fruit preserves all served on a three tiered tray.

The best part is the selection of teas. The menu included a tea for every taste. I chose the tropical green tea. Not too light or too heavy and with the hint of berries and mango intermingling with green tea. Served our own pot which was good because we all chose a different selection. I think none of us were interested in sharing.

It was a lovely but brisk Sunday to have an out-of-normal experience for a middle-class American. The food was fulfilling, but you did not leave filling stuffed. The Rittenhouse Hotel will make gluten-free and vegetarian selections if given enough notice. They welcome parties from 1 to 20.

It’s a lovely tradition that isn’t stifled in pomp and circumstance. I’m looking forward to attending my next high tea.

The Rittenhouse Hotel
210 W. Rittenhouse Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19103
T. 800-635-1042 or 215-546-9000
F. 215-732-3364