One of the first tea experiences I had after returning to the city in the summer of 2016 was afternoon tea with Jee at La Chine in the Waldorf Astoria. I misplaced my notes (gasp) and always thought I'd be able to return soon and make new ones. However, the Waldorf Astoria is closed until 2020.
The review I offer here is based on a general recollection and not specifics except regarding the honey. La Chine restaurant offered two afternoon teas: La Chine and Imperial. We chose the former. The perfectly sized scones were served with the usual condiments and honey. The honey was very good. It was harvested from the hotel's rooftop apiary. I think I ordered the Margaret's Hope Darjeeling. It was very good. Your tea was steeped perfectly in the kitchen, poured into a tea pot, and served at the table.
The sweets and savories were good. I was eating fish and seafood at the time so ate the stacked salmon sandwich and lobster roll.
As I write this the sweet that stands out in my memory is the layered confection pictured above. I don't recall the flavors but I know I liked it. I really wish I had my notes! For two other perspectives on afternoon tea on La Chine, read Bethany Looi and The Wandering Eater.
Thank you for sharing! I can't wait until you get to go back but I can't believe it's closed until 2020 due to renovations. I would like to know how your most preferred desert tasted too, it looks so delicious...
ReplyDeleteI am disappointed I can't find my notes, Gabie, then I could share details about the menu!
DeleteAhh, what a bummer that they're closed for so long! Hopefully their food will be just as you remember it (or even better!) when they reopen :) I love the idea of them using honey from their own hives for their food - talk about eating locally!
ReplyDeleteI was very interested in their honey because they harvested it on site. I wonder happened to the hive(s)?
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