Hotel Bel-Air Afternoon Tea Service

Just a mile west of Beverly Hills, but a world away from the hustle and bustle is the Hotel Bel Air – L.A.’s only hotel to receive the 5 star rating 13 times. And pulling into the valet parking of this 13 acre estate, it’s easy to see why.

Lush gardens, ponds, and outdoor fireplaces create a luxurious but relaxed setting – it’s goal when it opened in 1946 and when it spent over $20 million in 2003 to renovate. The rooms are spectacular and fit for a queen but we wanted to really find out if it was fit for a lady – a lady who lunches on afternoon tea that is.

Despite a rather cloudy, gloomy day, The Terrace Restaurant provided a comfy, upbeat, casual feel with its heated terracotta floors, overhead heating system and pink/rose colored linens (It was also voted most Romantic and Best Decor by Zagat). Sitting in the shabby chic inspired custom-cushioned banquettes, we were able to enjoy the gardens whilst nibbling on amazing tea (Passion Fruit and Jasmine Darjeeling) and scrumptious food (handcrafted little sandwiches, clotted cream and scones and home-made jams).

Chef Douglas Dodd created an afternoon tea celebration that exhausts the senses – from tea that smells divine (and comes in single servings, refreshed throughout your stay) to cream puffs that tickle your tongue. And although there is a wealth of food, the portions are perfect for afternoon tea and satisfying as a light lunch (we were wondering how we’d follow up with dinner!)

The large round tables were perfect for our power meeting but served well for others who were having an intimate date or birthday party. And with the cosy banquettes, we weren’t bothered by anyone else – in fact, the service here made us feel as though we were the only ones.

We dished, dined and sipped for three hours and left feeling definitely like ladies. Perhaps even a bit like royalty.

Afternoon Tea
Monday thru Friday: Seatings between 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Saturday: Seatings between 3:30 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Hotel Bel-Air
701 Stone Canyon Rd.
Los Angeles, CA 90077
310-472-1211