High Marks for Afternoon Tea on the West Coast.

Story and Photos by Lee Daley. Be it in San Francisco or Victoria, Canada, Afternoon Tea is a celebration to savor. Having enjoyed many leisurely afternoon tea conversations and comforts, I have now chosen my two very favorite high-mark Afternoon Tea “happy hours,” both located on our Pacific West Coast. Let me tell you a bit (or should I say a “sip”) about each one.

Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont San Francisco has been this city’s tradition since 1907 and to this day accompanies its tea service with polished silver, fine china and personal service. Here is a chance to enjoy an afternoon of luxurious relaxation while you shift pace from the bustle of everyday life to one of regal relaxation. Even more relaxing is the backdrop of a pianist tickling the ivories with classic tunes. For us, it was a Saturday afternoon to treasure, as all around, in the quiet elegance, small groups and couples chatted, immersed in an idyllic environment.

Entering the San Francisco Fairmont Hotel perched atop Nob Hill, you will walk through its marble-columned lobby to the elegant Laurel Court with its soaring circular dome and grand piano. On a recent visit, I could feel the atmosphere almost immediately shift, transforming the hectic mood of the day with a feeling of quiet reverie. It was as though I had suddenly stepped into another era, one of reverent relaxation. Once seated, my husband and I were soon served steaming pots of premium loose-leaf tea accompanied by house-made scones, tea sandwiches on artisan bread, freshly made fruit-topped pastries and French sweets, all presented in elegant style. My husband chose the Earl Grey tea and, upon his first few sips, remarked it was the best he had tasted since his childhood upbringing in England.

It was here in the Fairmont San Francisco Venetian Room that Tony Bennett first publicly sang what ultimately became his signature song, “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.” While enjoying your Afternoon Tea, be sure to ask the pianist to play his personal rendition of Bennett’s most memorable song to enhance the experience.

Our other favorite West Coast Afternoon Tea experience was enjoyed at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria on Vancouver Island. Here, in the Empress’ historic Lobby Lounge, relaxation is prime with an elevated overlook of the sparkling Inner Harbor while the soft tones of the piano add a sophisticated background.

The Empress’ afternoon tea menu boasts luxury-grade, seasonal, handpicked whole-leaf teas, finger sandwiches such as the roasted Farmhouse Chicken with Curry and Sweet Onions, signature Empress raisin scones served warm with house-made clotted cream and strawberry-vanilla preserves, along with succulent freshly baked pastries.

During the summer months, the world-renowned Fairmont Empress serves England’s most beloved ritual of Afternoon Tea to more guests than most hotels in London. More than 400 people per day come to enjoy a tradition that commenced when the hotel opened in January of 1908. During our recent visit to the Empress’ elegant Tea Room, we felt completely at ease while indulging in the recreated Victorian experience. Treated royally, we lingered over the expansive menu, soaking in the regal atmosphere and enjoying the warm, attentive service.