Afternoon Tea in the Peabody Hotel.
If you’re in the mood for an elegant afternoon tea, treat yourself at Chez Philippe in the Peabody Hotel. An easy drive to Memphis from Jonesboro, and valet parking included with the tea service, makes arrival hassle-free. Be sure to have a $5 bill ready to tip the valet, and you're all set to begin an enchanting afternoon.
Chez Philippe offers an unforgettable afternoon tea experience that pairs Southern hospitality with traditional English elegance. Afternoon tea has long been a cherished tradition in many grand hotels around the world, and Chez Philippe carries on this custom. Afternoon tea became fashionable in England in the late 1600s, serving as a refined time to entertain friends or conduct business over a selection of teas and light bites.
Attending afternoon tea at Chez Philippe calls for stylish yet classic attire. For the ladies, a dress is always appropriate, and pairing it with a fascinator or hat adds a lovely touch of tradition and charm. While there’s no strict dress code, tea is an event steeped in etiquette, so a polished and sophisticated outfit is fitting. Men will feel comfortable in a collared shirt, sport coat, and nice slacks. No jeans or sneakers for anyone in the party.
High Tea vs. Afternoon Tea: What’s the Difference?
One common misconception is the interchangeability of "high tea" and "afternoon tea," but they are distinctly different experiences. Afternoon tea, like the one at Chez Philippe, is a light and refined affair traditionally served between lunch and dinner. It features delicate tea sandwiches, scones, and pastries all served on lower tables between cushioned chairs. High tea, on the other hand, was historically a heartier meal for working-class people, often served in the early evening with more substantial foods like meat pies and bread at a high top table or bar. Afternoon tea is all about elegance, whereas high tea is more like your favorite comfort food.
The Setting: Elegance and Attention to Detail
As you settle in the elegant dining room, you’ll find the table impeccably set: tea cup, saucer, small plate and large plates, and stemmed water glass all arranged neatly. Adding to the charm is a glass honey pot with fresh honey and wooden comb dipper, a bowl of sugar cubes with silver serving tongs, a small creamer for your tea, and elegant cloth napkins. It’s a setting that invites you to relax and immerse yourself in the experience. Spend the afternoon with a dear friend or two.
The menu offers a variety of fine teas, including the blended white tea we chose, that the menu described as a delicate blend of peach blossom, orange and tangerine oils. For those celebrating or just wanting an extra touch of indulgence, champagne can also be added to your tea experience. We chose the extra touch!
Afternoon tea at Chez Philippe is a three-course array of savory and sweet delicacies. The first course arrives on a three-tiered stand, and each tier offers something special: A cucumber sandwich with pimento cheese, tomato, and crème fraîch start on the top tier. Moussed salmon on pumpernickel, garnished with Peruvian pepper was rich and savory on the second tier. A croissant filled with curry chicken salad, along with a crostini topped with prosciutto and a melon ball were the perfect blend of savory and sweet for the bottom tier.
Next comes the scone course, where a cranberry drop scone is served warm alongside butter and jam. The scone is delightfully crumbly yet soft, and pairs perfectly with a fresh cup of tea.
The final course is another three-tiered selection, this time featuring sweet treats that are as beautiful as they are delicious: A bite-sized layered mint chocolate cake, a delicate pistachio macaron, accompanied by a pistachio sponge cake topped with pistachio mousse—pure decadence on the middle tier. The pecan shortbread bites finished the third course with Southern style and nostalgia.
Every bite is a testament to the care and craftsmanship of the Peabody’s Pastry Shop, and while the portions are refined, they’re surprisingly filling. So gladly accept the option to take some treats home to savor later.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in an elegant experience, afternoon tea at Chez Philippe is the perfect way to spend the day. Tea is served Thursday through Sunday from noon to 3:30 PM. It’s a wonderful outing for a special occasion, a birthday, or just a leisurely afternoon treat. Reservations are highly recommended as it’s a popular event in the city. Enjoy!
Bye Now.
Dr. V
