Think tea is only for 18th Century revolutionaries and old ladies in white gloves? The holidays are a perfect time to re-evaluate. If you’re looking to entertain out-of-towners or seeking a respite from post-holiday shoppers, escape to one of these spots for a spot of tea.
The Palm Court at the Drake
140 E. Walton Pl. 312-787-2200
It doesn’t get much more traditional than the holiday tea at the Drake Hotel, where harp music sets the stage for a spread of finger sandwiches, scones and French pastries.
When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday; noon-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Jan. 4; fully booked Dec. 27Cost: $31.95. Reservations: 312-932-4615
Atwood Cafe
1 W. Washington St. 312-368-1900
State Street shoppers can duck into this classic spot in the Hotel Burnham for a holiday tea offering a parade of tea cakes, mini-sandwiches, scones and pastries.
When: 2-4 p.m. daily through Tuesday
Cost: $28.
Palmer House Hilton
17 E. Monroe St. 312-726-7500
The regal second-floor lobby at this iconic Loop hotel hosts afternoon tea year-round, but it’s extra festive this time of year. Expect finger sandwiches, pastries and scones.
When: 2-4 p.m. daily
Cost: $35. Reservations: 312-917-3404
Chalkboard
4343 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-477-7144
Get off the downtown path at this neighborhood spot in Lincoln Square, where service includes finger sandwiches, scones and pastries for less than you’d pay at the hotels.
When: 2-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
Cost: $19
Greenhouse at the Ritz-Carlton
160 E. Pearson St. 312-573-5154
This hideaway on the 12th floor of the Ritz-Carlton offers tea year-round, and it’s one of the most popular in town. Tea includes mini-scones, cookies and more. It’s booked through December, but you still can snag reservations New Year’s Day and beyond.
When: 2:30-5 p.m. daily
Cost: $27
Wave at the W Hotel-Lakeshore
644 N. Lake Shore Drive. 312-255-4460
At this trendy spot, the dual “Unitea” menu isn’t just for the ladies. One menu is designed for guys (think mini-Angus sliders and beef tartare toasts) and another caters to gals (chilled shrimp and cucumber salad, curried deviled eggs); both include sweets such as fruit tarts and scones.
When: 2:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday
Cost: $30 for tea; add a tea-infused martini for $40, bubbly for $45, beer for $38
All teas offer champagne or sparkling wine for an additional charge. Reservations are strongly recommended.
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kpratt@tribune.com
