High Tea at the Fairmont

Things I don't do every day - whether it be going to an author's reading, seeing an unfamiliar band play, exploring a new town, or taking a class - really buoy me. They remind me that life is big and that's there's lots to do and enjoy out there. This is exactly what happened yesterday when the husband and I put on our fancy pants and went to the Fairmont's Laurel Court for afternoon tea service. Talk about something I don't do every day!

First of all, the big comfy chairs are awesome. They really adds to the "sit and relax" part of the deal. But, of course, it's all about the tea. I went for the Fairmont Earl Grey. Their own blend, it's a bit spicier than other Earl Greys, but I liked that. The husband loved his jasmine green tea as well, so we were off to a good start.

As we looked around, we saw teeny sandwiches of cheese and meats, scones, biscuits, and little cupcakes all around us. I must admit, I was a little jealous. I wanted a scone and I knew I wouldn't be getting one. (One reason the vegan tea service at TeaNY in New York ROCKS). However, when our platter (above) arrived, I was pleasantly surprised. We were served mini grilled veggie sandwiches, berries, and a ginger and green apple sorbet that was seriously awesome. A heavy hand on the ginger made it a nice compliment to the tea.

These are the tomato and eggplant sammies up close. They were really good but would have been taken to the next level by some kind of spread - hummus, avocado, tapenade, etc. However, the veggies were perfectly seasoned and cooked beautifully, so I can't complain too much.

It looks like a simple cup of berries, but boy were they ever ripe. They were no scones, but you gotta love summer berries. Yum.

No pic of the sorbet as it was melting quickly. In the end, it was a lovely afternoon. We got married at the Fairmont almost 4 years ago so it was fun to walk around after our tea and revisit the ceremony and cocktail hour sites. There really is something about stopping for tea and little bites in the middle of the afternoon that adds an air of relaxation to the rest of the day. I think I need to find a place in SF that does vegan tea service....

Up next: Well, I may make it back to one of my SF faves this week, or I may be next reporting from Boston. Only time will tell, but either way, I'll be eating well! (Poet. Know it.)