The holiday season, ideally, gives us all the chance to discard our unsightly athleisure and dingy footwear in lieu of something more refined and fitting. What better way to show off your finest threads and refined manners than at one of the following holiday high tea services where tastefully nibbling on finger sandwiches and carefully sipping from porcelain cups is all the rage.
Each venue will offer a limited tea service — most of them during the early afternoon, as is custom — tailormade for the Christmas season. Be sure to either call in advance or look online before reservations are booked solid.
Knife Pleat (Costa Mesa): The Michelin-star restaurant’s annual holiday tea service returns, including top-drawer touches like hand-made pastries from Germain Biotteau (the gingerbread is especially noteworthy) and confections like little edible gift box, reindeer, and Christmas tree treats. Holiday tea service is offered every Saturday in December between 11:30 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. $135 per guest. 3333 S. Bristol St., Costa Mesa
McKenna’s Tea Cottage (Seal Beach): This dedicated tea house, replete with lacework tablecloths and delicate porcelain, features regular service with English brews and treats. On Saturday, Dec. 16, the Seal Beach venue decks its halls and turns ever merrier with a Christmas tea featuring seasonal cocktails, tea (don’t miss out on the pumpkin spice and elderberry herbal) and food. $75 per adult, $45 per child. 237 Main St., Seal Beach
Raya at the Ritz Carlton (Dana Point): From now until Thurs. Dec 21, enjoy seasonal teas, savory canapes, sugary bites, and a glass (or three) of champagne at the hotel that’s synonymous with opulence. The high tea was designed in collaboration with the Parisian-based tea house Palais des Thes. Highlights include petite sandwiches like jumbo lump crab on bricohe and egg salad with caviar; sweet treats include scones, eclairs, pumpkin madelines and macarons. Best of all, this high tea comes with…
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