Thank you to Claremont Club & Spa, a Fairmont Hotel for treating me and my daughter to a delicious holiday tea celebration. All opinions are our own.
My fancy five-year old and I recently sampled the offerings at the Holiday Tea at the Claremont. It was exactly as fancy and special as you’d imagine and we had a lovely time. The experience is offered at $135/adult and $85/child, so certainly a luxurious splurge for most of us. But it’s such a festive and memorable affair, you may find it’s worth the splurge. Thought of another way, this tasteful holiday tea event is perfect for special family time that doesn’t center around Santa or gifts.
Claremont Hotel Holiday Tea Menu
We sat on comfortable, elegant furniture among twinkling Christmas trees and beautiful views. Other than choosing a tea and hot chocolate, the remainder of the menu is fixed by the kitchen staff. The children’s offerings include tasty treats geared more towards younger palates, including a ham and cheese sandwich, fruit skewer and peanut butter and banana sandwich (on chocolate bread!).
There are also sweet treats to enjoy, including a particularly creamy vanilla panna cotta in the cutest little cup. The adult offerings are substantial, including scones, biscuits, sandwiches (truffled egg salad was my favorite), and sweet treats. Between the two of us, we polished off almost every item on the tray in front of us except for one lobster roll (we’re just not lobster girls). We were both satiated and delighted by the entire experience.
What to expect at Holiday Tea at the Claremont
My daughter and I had the best time just getting ready for the tea, primping and dawning fancy dresses for the special occasion. We made reservations at lunchtime and enjoyed a lovely afternoon watching the rain pour over the Bay Area through the Claremont Resort’s beautiful wall of windows.
We also giggled and toasted each other with our sparkling wine and sparkling cider while tasting so many new flavors. If nothing else, just watching my daughter trying new foods (honeynut squash tartine!) and relishing the novelty of it all was such a treat. There’s something about the elegant atmosphere that made her willing to try new foods. Perhaps I should start serving dinner on grandma’s fancy china?
The bottom line
We had the best time at the Claremont’s Holiday Tea. My daughter literally said, “Best. Day. Ever.” So there you have it. Yes, it’s a splurge, but if you’re looking for a meaningful, memorable experience-gift instead of toys this year, I’d highly recommend this luxurious experience.
Plan your visit for holiday tea at Claremont Hotel:
When: For 2023: Available on Saturdays and Sundays beginning December 2 through 30. Seating from 12 pm until 3 pm.
Cost: $135 for adults, including one glass of sparkling wine. $85 for children (under 12 years old)
Where: Claremont Lobby Lounge & Bar, 41 Tunnel Road, Berkeley. Parking is free when validated at the restaurant.
Reservations >
Probably best for older children who can sit still and enjoy all the pomp and circumstance. My daughter is 5 and she loved it.Â
Find other wonderful holiday ideas in our East Bay Christmas Activities Guide.
Thanks to Claremont Club & Spa, a Fairmont Hotel for hosting me and Elaina at holiday tea. Berkeley’s historic Claremont offers Holiday Tea, Christmas dinner and New Year’s brunch. Happy Holidays!
