Afternoon Tea at The Empress

Afternoon Tea is an art and should be an extraordinary experience one that you will cherish. Victoria has some wonderful places for you to indulge in an Afternoon Tea experience. Each of the places is unique in what they offer along with the type of service and selection of sandwiches, pastries and desserts. I am on a journey around the city to find these extraordinary places.

Afternoon Tea is as elegant now as it was the last time I visited, which was at least 15 years ago if not longer. It is the experience of wonderful live piano music, comfortable seating, the classic service and of course the tea, canapes and desserts that makes the experience one to remember and this is one that I will remember with Lawrence who joined me as we sat by the window looking out towards the harbour.

We selected our teas from the tea selections, I had the Wuyi Rock Oolong Organic Tea while Lawrence had the Lumbini Tea that came with warmers to keep our tea hot.

A 3 tiered tray arrived at the table and we started off with the Freshly Baked Empress Raisin Scones served warm with house-made clotted cream & strawberry-vanilla preserves.

We then tasted the various finger sandwiches and canapes, my favourites were the Cold Smoked Salmon, Sage roasted Turkey salad and Savoury Quiche.

Lastly we indulged in the selection of sweets, my favourites were the Carrot Cake Opera, Caramel Pecan Tart, Pumpkin Financier and the Blackberry Macaron.

Afternoon Tea at the Empress is offered daily for $89 per person, located inside the Fairmont Empress Hotel at 721 Government Street in Victoria. Advance reservations are required. Follow them on Instagram @fairmontempress

By: Richard Wolak