Holiday Tea at the Claremont Hotel

Thank you to Claremont Club & Spa, a Fairmont Hotel for treating me and my son for a delicious high tea celebration. All experiences are our own. FYI, Berkeley's historic Claremont offers both Holiday Tea, gingerbread decorating, and Brunch with Santa Claus.

Holiday High tea at the Claremont — Why is he smiling so big? He just figured out that the whole platter is for us!

My ten-year old and I tested the offerings at the Holiday Tea at the Claremont. Normally offered for $75/adult and $45/child, it is a luxurious splurge for most of us. We sat on comfortable, elegant furniture and had our choice of a large tea selection. Other than choosing a tea or two, the remainder of the menu is fixed by the kitchen staff. Between the two of us, we polished off every item on the tray in front of us except for one coconut scone (he liked his, I don't do coconut).

This tasteful holiday tea setting is perfect for family time that doesn't center around Santa or gifts. On Dec. 9 & 16, characters from Oakland Ballet Company's The Nutcracker will be circulating, so you can plan accordingly.

Christmas tea in the Bay Area sponsored by Claremont Hotel — The tasty treats at Claremont's elegant holiday high tea service

On a normal day, my child wears basketball shorts and a hoodie as his uniform. As a reward for putting on nicer clothes, we had a lovely afternoon watching the rain pour over the Bay Area through the Claremont Resort's beautiful windows. We also giggled and toasted each other with our sparkling wine and sparkling cider while tasting so many new flavors.

When: Holiday Tea is Friday-Sunday (Nov. 25-Dec. 31, 2017) 1pm – 4pm.
Cost: $75 per guest (adult), $45 children. Reservations strongly recommended.
Where: Claremont Lobby Lounge & Bar, 41 Tunnel Road, Berkeley. For reservations, reserve online, call 510-549-8515, or email cla.holidays@fairmont.com.
One more thing: Gingerbread decorating workshop and brunch with Santa are available on Dec. 3rd with a different price structure. A second brunch with Santa will be on Dec. 17th. See details online >

Recommended for older children.
Find other wonderful holiday ideas in our East Bay Christmas Activities Guide.

[Photos by Heather Flett, except the platter of food, which was provided by Claremont]

Thanks to Claremont Club & Spa, a Fairmont Hotel for hosting me and Milo at holiday tea. Berkeley's historic Claremont offers both Holiday Tea and Brunch with Santa Claus. Happy Holidays!