High Tea...Low Tea...Who Knew?

This weekend I spent a lovely few hours with two of my girlfriends taking High Tea. Or, that's what I thought we were doing. While I've done High Tea on several occasions, I only this time learned that what I've been having all this time is actually considered "Low Tea" in Great Britain. Did you know it's all dependent on the height of the table? The traditional tea that includes scones, finger sandwiches and cookies is actually called "Low Tea" and was enjoyed as more of a luxury. "High Tea" was actually eaten at a regular kitchen table or bar height by more of the common class and included more savory offerings like bangers and mash or roast beef, etc. It amazes me that all of these hotels and restaurants still call it "High Tea," even the famous "Empress Hotel" in Victoria, BC -- about the closest thing to England as one can get without actually traveling over the pond.

But, regardless of what you call it, it's still something in which I love partaking over a lingering, relaxing afternoon with good friends whenever I have the chance. This weekend we decided to try a place none of us had experienced yet -- the historic Sorrento Hotel in Seattle. Perched up on First Hill overlooking downtown's financial district and Elliott Bay, the Sorrento Hotel offers old-world charm with an opulent cherry wood interior filled with overstuffed furniture.

Afternoon Tea (just can't bring myself to call it "Low Tea" is served in the hotel's Fireside Lounge — an intimate area just inside the entrance. Stepping inside, I felt like I'd flown back to London for the afternoon. On that rare sunny spring day in Seattle, we had the entire lounge to ourselves, so we were able to chat, laugh and take our time. It was true decadence and very relaxing -- exactly what I needed!

We were served our tea, followed by a tiered tray laden with cinnamon sugar scones and Devonshire cream, four different kinds of finger sandwiches (salmon, cream cheese & chive, tarragon chicken salad, and egg salad), and an array of delectable cookies (including coconut macaroons, chocolate eclairs, jam shortbread, and nutty chocolate wafers). It was a lot of food -- definitely worth the price per person. I couldn't even eat all of my share. Regardless, I did leave with a major sugar rush, but it was so worth it.

I had a great afternoon just relaxing and catching up with my girlfriends, Kelli Estes and Dona Sarkar. Having the lounge to ourselves, we picked out a trio of high-backed, oversized chairs that felt like thrones. It was an extra special treat to get a lot of personal attention from the waiter without being rushed. Always a great thing when you're looking forward to a leisurely afternoon with the ladies.

(Left to right: Kelli Estes, Me, and Dona Sarkar enjoying our afternoon "Low" Tea)