An Unforgettable Culinary Journey: High Tea at the Iconic Fairmont Empress in Victoria, BC

Embarking on a journey to Victoria, British Columbia, offers a myriad of delights, but few experiences rival the timeless elegance and refined pleasure of Afternoon Tea at the legendary Fairmont Empress. Nestled in the heart of Victoria’s picturesque Inner Harbour, this iconic hotel isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a destination that promises an immersion into history, luxury, and exquisite culinary artistry. Our recent visit to the Fairmont Empress for their famed tea service transcended all expectations, proving to be not merely a meal, but a cherished memory that now stands as a highlight of our travels.

For those seeking to elevate their travel itinerary with truly unique and luxurious experiences, adding Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress to your bucket list is an absolute must. From the moment you step into the opulent Lobby Lounge, you are transported to an era of grandeur, where every detail, from the sparkling chandeliers to the impeccably set tables, whispers tales of centuries-old tradition and royal visits. It’s an indulgence that appeals to all senses, promising an afternoon of relaxation, exquisite flavors, and unparalleled service.

Planning your visit? Here are some quick links to help you organize your Victoria adventure:

🏨 Discover Hotels and Vacation Rentals in Victoria, BC
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Indulge in the Grand Tradition of Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress

The Fairmont Empress has been serving Afternoon Tea for over a century, a tradition that began in 1908. This enduring ritual has become synonymous with the hotel, offering guests a glimpse into a bygone era of sophistication and leisure. As you settle into your plush armchair, the sense of occasion is palpable. The elegant decor, soft chatter, and gentle clinking of porcelain create an ambiance that is both refined and welcoming. It’s an environment designed for relaxation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

One of the most remarkable aspects of our tea service was the incredible staff. Our server, Marilyn, exemplified the dedication and passion that makes the Empress experience so special. Having served tea at the hotel for an astonishing 41 years, her depth of knowledge and genuine love for her work were truly inspiring. Marilyn shared delightful anecdotes and insights, making our afternoon not just a meal, but a conversation steeped in history and hospitality. Her unwavering commitment, a rare find in today’s fast-paced world, underscored the timeless charm and enduring legacy of the Fairmont Empress. Her dedication epitomized the joy and attention to detail that goes into every aspect of this celebrated tradition.

The tea selection itself is a journey through fragrant landscapes. The Fairmont Empress takes pride in its curated collection, featuring exclusive blends and international favorites. My companion, John, thoroughly enjoyed the distinctive Empress Blend, a robust and aromatic black tea specially crafted for the hotel. I, on the other hand, was captivated by the delightful Kea Lani Orange Pineapple, a fragrant and fruity infusion that provided a tropical escape with every sip. The choice is extensive, ensuring every palate finds its perfect match, each served in elegant teacups, enhancing the ritual.

The allure of the Empress tea was so profound that we found ourselves drawn to the gift shop, where we purchased several boxes to bring a piece of this luxurious experience home. Now, enjoying a cup of our favorite Empress tea has become a cherished nightly ritual. John and I unwind, reflect on our day, and plan future adventures, all while savoring the warm, comforting flavors. It’s more than just a beverage; it’s a tangible link to our wonderful memories of Victoria and a reminder of the exceptional time we shared at the Fairmont Empress.

When planning your visit for Afternoon Tea, a crucial piece of advice is to arrive with a hearty appetite. Many guests, ourselves included, initially underestimate the sheer generosity and abundance of the spread. Rest assured, you will be delighted by the multi-tiered presentation of exquisite culinary creations designed to satisfy both the eye and the palate. This is a substantial and satisfying experience, far beyond a simple cup of tea and a biscuit.

A Culinary Journey: The Delectable Courses of Empress Afternoon Tea

Our culinary journey began with a delightful first course: fresh, plump strawberries bathed in the signature Empress cream. This light yet decadent start was truly heavenly, offering a burst of natural sweetness perfectly complemented by the rich, velvety cream. Honestly, I could have happily enjoyed several servings of these – they were simply that good and set a high standard for the courses to follow.

Next arrived the quintessential elements of any traditional British tea: freshly baked raisin scones. Served warm, these fluffy, golden delights were accompanied by delicate strawberry jam and, of course, more of that exquisite Empress Cream – akin to a luxurious clotted cream. The combination was divine, a testament to simple ingredients executed to perfection.

The savory tier presented an array of meticulously crafted tea sandwiches, each a small work of art. We savored delicate Smoked Salmon Pinwheels with dill cream cheese, offering a refreshing zest. The roasted honey ham with tarragon dijonnaise provided a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. A classic free-range egg salad croissant was wonderfully light and fluffy, while the cucumber and ginger mascarpone on butter brioche offered a cool, crisp, and surprisingly delightful flavor profile. Finally, the Moroccan spiced coronation chicken on marble rye introduced an exotic, aromatic twist. Each sandwich demonstrated a thoughtful combination of flavors and textures, making every bite a discovery.

The grand finale was the sweet treats, a dazzling display of miniature pastries and cakes. The selection for this tier often varies, reflecting seasonal ingredients and special events at the Fairmont Empress, ensuring a unique experience with each visit. During our tea, we indulged in the elegant Ballerina red velvet cake, a vibrant citrus cranberry lamington, a comforting cinnamon chestnut cup, a traditional festive mince pie, and delicate ginger spiced floral shortbread. Each dessert was a testament to the pastry chefs’ skill, offering intricate flavors and beautiful presentation.

The Rich History and Intriguing Facts Behind Fairmont Empress Afternoon Tea

Beyond the delightful culinary offerings, the history and traditions surrounding Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress add another layer of fascination to the experience. This esteemed ritual has a storied past, attracting royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers for generations. It’s a place where history has unfolded, and where modern-day memories continue to be made.

• The guest list for Afternoon Tea reads like a who’s who of global figures. Notable visitors have included British royalty such as Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret, literary giants like Rudyard Kipling, Hollywood legends like Shirley Temple, Spencer Tracy, Rita Hayworth, and Bob Hope, as well as contemporary stars like John Travolta, Barbra Streisand, Sarah McLachlan, Mel Gibson, and Nelly Furtado. Dining here truly places you in esteemed company.
• The exquisite Empress Tea China, with its distinctive pattern, holds a remarkable history. It was originally presented to King George V in 1914 upon the opening of the Booth factory in Stoke-on-Trent, England. The china made its grand debut at The Empress in 1939 for the Royal visit of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. Today, this iconic pattern is exclusively produced by William Edwards for The Fairmont Empress, maintaining its regal legacy.
• The dedication of the tea servers is unparalleled. Some of the most tenured colleagues in the hotel can be found in the tea room, with some boasting over 42 years of service. This extraordinary commitment contributes significantly to the authenticity and warmth of the experience, as their deep knowledge and passion are passed on to every guest.
• The popularity of this tradition is immense, with nearly 100,000 guests served tea annually, consuming an estimated 500,000 cups of tea. This volume underscores the Fairmont Empress’s status as a premier destination for Afternoon Tea globally.
• During the hotel’s centennial restoration in 2008, a truly unique piece of history was preserved and repurposed. The hotel’s original Tea Lobby floor was replaced, but instead of discarding the wood, it was transformed into delicate Afternoon Tea tables. This means that when you dine here, you are quite literally “eating off the floor” of the Empress’s illustrious past, connecting you directly to its heritage.
• The concept of Afternoon Tea itself dates back to the 19th century, credited to the Duchess of Bedford. Legend has it that she would experience a “sinking feeling” in the late afternoon and requested a small meal with tea to tide her over until dinner. This personal custom soon evolved into a fashionable social event, giving birth to the beloved tradition of Afternoon Tea enjoyed worldwide today.

Essential Travel Tips for Your Fairmont Empress Tea Experience

To ensure your Afternoon Tea experience is as seamless and enjoyable as possible, here are some practical tips and essential information:

The Empress Blend of Tea: This exclusive blend, created by the Metropolitan Tea Company, is a masterpiece. It features a harmonious combination of seasonal, high-quality teas from various regions: Assam (known for its thick, malty, full-bodied character), Kenya (offering a floral-like flavor and golden coppery infusion), South India (contributing a superb fruity and sprightly flavor), Ceylon (with its airy, almost piquant notes), and China (providing burgundy depth with light oaky undertones). This carefully crafted blend is widely regarded as one of the finest in the world, a true testament to the Empress’s commitment to quality.

Service Hours: Traditional Afternoon Tea service commences daily at Noon, with the final seating at 3:45 p.m. We highly recommend allowing a full hour, or even more, to truly savor and enjoy your entire Afternoon Tea experience without feeling rushed.

For those seeking a unique evening option, Evening Tea is also available from 7:00 p.m. with the last seating at 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, typically offered from May through September.

Dress Code: The Fairmont Empress encourages a “casually elegant” dress code to complement the sophisticated ambiance. To maintain the dignity of the occasion, guests are kindly asked to refrain from wearing torn or ripped jeans, short shorts, cut-off pants, beachwear, flip-flops, or baseball caps. Think smart casual – something you would wear to a nice restaurant.

Location and Contact: The Fairmont Empress is conveniently located at 721 Government Street, Victoria, BC. For reservations or inquiries, you can call 250-384-8111 or toll-free at 800-441-1414. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your desired time slot for this popular experience.

For more detailed information about Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress or to explore accommodation options at this magnificent hotel, please visit their official website: www.fairmont.com/empress.

And, if you find yourself utterly enchanted by the tea, as we did, remember to visit the gift shop! It’s the perfect place to pick up some of the exclusive blends to continue the experience at home. If you happen to forget or need to restock, you can conveniently order the tea directly from the Fairmont website. John and I recently placed a large order ourselves, having truly fallen in love with the exceptional teas from the Empress.

While Afternoon Tea is a highlight, Victoria, BC offers many other attractions. Consider exploring these highly-rated Victoria BC Tours, many of which conveniently include a stop at the magnificent Empress hotel.

Discover More of Victoria, BC: Essential Travel Resources

Enhance your trip to Victoria with these additional helpful guides:

Victoria BC Restaurant Guide: Explore the vibrant culinary scene beyond Afternoon Tea.

Butchart Gardens Victoria BC: A guide to one of the world’s most beautiful floral displays, including their magical holiday light show.

For a comprehensive overview of Canadian adventures, browse all of our Canada Travel Guides.