In keeping with my new goal of having a European staycation in August, I made my way to “England” this weekend via afternoon tea at the Drake Hotel in downtown Chicago. As many of you know in reading my posts, I love to take afternoon tea, whether it is in my own house or in another country. In fact, I was once quite a connoisseur of afternoon tea – having experienced it on several occasions in England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland.
This is my second time having tea at the Drake and I must admit, I remember the first time being slightly better. Although the service was exceptional and the presentation was fantastic, the food – particularly the very small sandwiches – was underwhelming. However, here’s what I did like about the Drake’s version of afternoon tea:
5 Things I Liked about Afternoon Tea at the Drake
- The Harpist – a beautiful addition to the stunning lobby
- The Tea – they serve Harney and Sons tea – one of my favorites, particularly English Breakfast
- The Scone – this is not your typical scone from Starbucks or Panera, but rather a very close resemblence to the biscuit-like scones in the UK
- The Bathroom – one of the most beautiful bathrooms I’ve seen in a hotel – and I’ve seen my fair share!
- The Devonshire Cream – Probably only the second time I’ve had it outside of England! It was quite good, although, tea and its accompaniments never seem quite as good outside of the UK.
I love the bathrooms at the Drake! I don’t live in Chicago, but my aunt lives across Michigan Avenue from the hotel. Next time I’m there, I think I’ll try tea at the Peninsula. Have you ever done that? My seven-year-old and I had tea at The Brown Palace this weekend while on a trip to Denver. It was lovely–highly reccomend.
For a French experience, I love Mon Ami Gabi at the Belden-Stratford in Lincoln Park.
I meant “recommend”.
Hi Melinda – I’ve stayed at the Brown Palace!! Such a lovely hotel. Too bad it was only for one night and I was not able to indulge in the spa 🙁 My husband and I absolutely adore Mon Ami Gai (and Brassiere Joe before it closed). Love the spinach salad with poached egg – very French indeed!
I haven’t left a comment before but I must tell you, I love your website! I visit at least once a day. I believe we are kindred spirits – how I long for Europe! I’ve been to Paris and London but yearn to get back there. Your idea for a European Staycation has inspired me. Thank you for encouraging me to live Paris wherever I am! 🙂
Alison – so happy you like the blog! I’m glad you are out there and that I can be at least somewhat entertaining.
Where did you get that phone cover? Love it and your blog!
Hi Laurie – it’s a Kate Spade iPhone 4 cover from the Apple store. My husband bought it for me in June last year. Sad to say that it cracked very soon after buying it; however it is still holding up nicely. I have yet to see it again in ANY store or online although I’d love to get the same one again!