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Tea at the Empress (GLBTea at the Empress)

by Arie Boris, CruiseGourmet.com Editor-in-Chief

The Fairmont Empress Hotel (most commonly known as The Empress), located in Victoria, the provincial capital of British Columbia, Canada, is a wonderful example of what Victorian life was like almost a century ago. The Empress is one of the oldest and most famous hotels in Victoria, British Columbia. It has become an iconic symbol for the city itself due

to its premiere setting on Wharf Street facing the downtown Inner Harbour. The hotel is well-renowned for its tradition of serving afternoon tea in the classic, Edwardian tradition. During the summer months, the hotel serves tea (along with fresh scones, preserves and Jersey Cream) in its ‘Tea Lobby’ to more than 800 guests and tourists. According to Fairmont, this apparently is more than most hotels in London, England. Although not cheap (afternoon tea is approximately CAD $50 per person), reservations are often required one or two weeks in advance. Built at the peak of the British Empire in 1908, this grand hotel still today is quite impressive and serves as the elegant centerpiece for this charming western Canadian government center.

The tradition of afternoon tea, also known as high tea, began in England in the 1700’s as a working class effort to ward off hunger before the main dinner meal. The 7th Duchess of Bedford made tea an integral part of social interaction by inviting friends to join her in the late afternoon for small sandwiches and cakes accompanied by freshly brewed tea. In eighteenth century England, tea mania swept the country and was sipped by all levels of society. This uniquely British tradition continues today in some of the finest hotels around the world. Today, “Afternoon Tea” is enjoyed by both rich and poor and has become a standard affair in British society. At this important ritual, people come together to discuss current events and lament their daily woes.

What was once a very formal affair, tea at the Empress is today quite casual, but still a charming introduction to Victoria and its history. With no less than seven blends, “Tea at the Empress” Blend is by far the most popular tea selection. Its thick, almost malt like flavor, has a hint of fruit. Served with fresh seasonal fruit, a selection of tea sandwiches, fruit scones, elegant pastries and tea cakes, all served on china produced exclusively for the Empress by Royal Doulton.

The ambiance of this grand Victorian tea is special and the gentle clinking of china while sipping tea and “people” watching is just the ticket. Tea at the Empress is a celebration. During my visit a party of ten elegantly dressed transvestites celebrated a birthday. Yes, tea at the Empress is truly for everyone!

For more information and reservations log onto www.fairmont.com.