Tucked beside the busy streets of downtown D.C., the classically decorated lobby of the St. Regis Washington D.C. Hotel is filled with people enjoying afternoon tea and treats. 

The first thing I noticed when I walked into the hotel was the intricate decorations. Low coffee tables with large cushioned red velvet chairs surrounding them add a homey and intimate feeling to each table. The dimly lit glass and gold chandeliers were very relaxing and welcoming.  

Though we arrived 20 minutes before our reservation, my dining companions and I were seated immediately upon walking in. Our table was set up with tea cups and saucers decorated with flowers, as well as gold silverware. 

Once seated, our waiter helped us navigate the extensive tea menu, pointed out the most popular flavors and described how they each taste. As an indecisive person, I was relieved to hear that all I needed to order was tea, as the food was all included. 

The overall cost, which covered all the food and tea, was $90.00 per person. Though expensive, you are paying for the high-quality experience, service and food. 

I ordered the St. Regis Signature Blend which is a black tea and my dining companion ordered Nuite d’Ete which is one of their popular herbal teas. The black tea had a delicious and subtle malty taste and a sweet and creamy flavor when adding the provided milk and sugar cubes. The herbal tea was fruity and refreshing with the perfect amount of tartness to balance out the sweet fruit flavor. 

I forgot to request a pescatarian meal when reserving my table, but when I mentioned this to the waiters they easily accommodated my dietary preferences. 

After having time to enjoy our tea, the waiters brought each of us a plate lined with four mini sandwiches; smoked salmon and cream cheese on pumpernickel bread, chive cream cheese topped with sliced cucumbers on rye bread, a mini tart shell with egg salad and a mini tart shell with curried chickpeas. My favorite was the tart shell with curried chickpeas. The curry flavor was perfectly strong and savory which complemented the slight sweetness of the tart shell. 

For dessert, the waiters brought out a four-tiered tray with one tier for each person and a plate of blueberry and cranberry scones. Each tier had a snowflake-shaped sugar cookie, a Neapolitan pastry, an eclair, a tart with jelly and a chocolate truffle – each tier with a different type. 

The scones were perfectly light and airy with a rich buttery flavor and a touch of sweetness from the powdered sugar on top. They were served with strawberry jam, lemon curd and Devonshire cream. The lemon curd’s sourness paired well with the buttery sugary scone and the fresh fruitiness of the strawberry jam complimented the sweetness of the scone. 

Along with the food, the environment of the St. Regis really elevated the experience. Soft classical music played in the peaceful room while each party engaged in quiet conversation. Diners and waiters wore formal clothing which made the experience feel more unique than a coffee shop or bakery.

High tea at the St. Regis gives you a glimpse of this classic English tradition. It is a unique experience that allows you to step out of your comfort zone and I highly recommend checking it out.