This post was originally posted December 2016 but it has been updated to reflect the 2017 offerings at Willard Intercontinental.
Going for a formal tea is fun any time of the year. But there is something particularly festive about going during the holiday season. This December the Willard Intercontinental in downtown DC is offering a decadent holiday tea every day (except for Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve) from 1pm to 4pm in their grand Peacock Alley.
Holiday Decadence: Tea at the Willard
Upon arrival, you will be seated a white table-clothed table, from where you can hear the elegant notes of the live harp. Your server will bring your menu, which features a $52 per adult, $22 for children 5-12 years of age, children under 5 are complimentary. That includes an array of organic teas, festive tea sandwiches and decadent pastries. Cocktails are available at an extra cost.
We started off with two kinds of tea: I choose a green tea and my mom went for a darjeeling black tea. Of course, warm milk and sugar were offered tableside which she took advantage of! I enjoyed mine without adding anything. Then came the best part: a three tiered crystal dessert platter filled with holiday treats. On the first level there were scones, both cinnamon and cranberry, which were served with four different spreads: passionfruit jam, lemon curd, whipped cream, and strawberry jelly. Each one was better than the last!
The second layer of the tray was filled with savory tarts and tea sandwiches. There were little gougeres filled with tomatoes, mushroom tarts, eggplant tarts and puffed pastry shells filled with a savory custard. The final tier was the best of all: sweets! Small brownies, caramel tarts, macaroons, chocolate cake, and chocolate cups filled with a cappuccino mousse. Sinfully good.
I would definitely recommend making a reservation; it was understandably quite crowded when we were there. Also be sure to leave yourself ample time to enjoy the music, tea, and treats. You want to relax during this tea time! Servers will refill your tea with hot water if you want more.
The Verdict: Tea at the Willard is the perfect holiday experience in the city! Take someone as a holiday treat or perfect to entertain relatives from out of town. At the Dining Traveler, we’re big fans of The Willard! Check out our spa a lunch review.
