Beltway Bambinos

Holidays are a time for creating memories, whether it be continuing a family tradition or beginning new ones. I’ve been lucky enough to go to a few high teas; my favorite was at The Plaza Hotel in New York City with my best friend followed by a Holiday Tea at the Willard Intercontinental with family. For those of you looking to take your Bambinos {or go without kids} here’s a list of some venues in our area where you can enjoy tea and crumpets; most with a holiday theme and following covid guidelines.

• Pentagon City Ritz Carlton Kids Tea at Fyve

The Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City is now offering Afternoon Tea, bringing a time-honored tradition at an affordable price – all with safety and the health of guests in mind. Offered in their fyve restaurant, the hotel’s Afternoon Tea service is available at three price points, including a Teddy Bear Tea for children. It’s the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or for those just looking for a weekend respite from the day-to-day. The selection includes:   

• Teddy Bear Tea
  • Selection of Children’s Tea Sandwiches
  • Chef’s Sweet Plate
  • Hot Chocolate or Tea

Afternoon Tea is currently available Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. Starting November 12, tea will be offered Thursday- Sunday, 12:00pm – 3:00pm. Come December 3, tea will be served every day from 12:00pm – 3:00pm. guests can make a reservation at (703) 412-2762. 

• Peter Rabbit Tea at the Ritz Carlton Tysons Corner

Served Saturday & Sunday, 12:00pm to 4:00pm, as part of the regularly served Afternoon Tea. Enjoy the Ritz-Carlton Tea experience with your young ones with a menu especially designed for guests ages 12 and under.

• The Mansion on O Street

They offer a Kids Dessert Tea Tour as well as high tea and various other kids events.

• Peacock Alley Tea at The Willard

The Willard’s Holiday Afternoon Tea is one of the hotel’s most cherished holiday traditions. Seated in the grandeur of Peacock Alley, among the festive decor and elegant sounds of the harp, guests can enjoy a tantalizing array of festive teas, sandwiches and seasonally inspired pastries. Holiday Afternoon Tea is offered Seating Time: 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. (90-minute dining restriction) Offered:  Friday – Sunday, December 4-20, 26th.

• Strathmore Afternoon Tea

The soothing sounds of local musicians fill the room, as you enjoy Afternoon Tea in the cozy atmosphere of The Shapiro Music Room at Strathmore. They do hold special events around various holidays so check their schedule to plan ahead. Charles Dickens’ Tea and Mrs. Claus Tea are a few of the popular holiday teas.

• Hillwood Estate, Museum & Garden

Not holiday specific. Seating is limited, so reservations are encouraged. $28.50 per person inclusive of tax and gratuity.All tea sandwiches and pastries are served family-style. 

• Tea with Mrs. B: November, 28, 2020

Creativity is called for every Christmas season.  This year it is especially important to create good times and fun memories for all. Joyfully, in the past years, Mrs. B and St. Nick often sat together for a private tea party to review the ‘naughty and nice’ list of little children. Now Mrs. B invites little ones to join her and Santa for a special event. This is the 9^th year for them getting together for tea and you are invited! Please join in what promises to be a merry and memorable time for you and your children.  It will be a festive party as only Mrs. B can create with her team of hard working little elves who love Christmas time.  All ages are welcome but children under 4 years old are required to have a parent in attendance. Tickets are limited to children only. Each and every child will have professional photos available for downloading to share with family and friends, far and near, the week following. This holiday season will be so special by starting it with Mrs. B, Santa Claus and her merry team of elves.

• The American Girl’s Tea Tysons Corner

Enjoy a special dining experience with a variety of dainty tea sandwiches and assorted sweet treats. Several dates for Holiday Tea and Santa events. Situated within Tyson Corner Mall with access to Santa, an ice skating rink, Pottery Barn Kids, the Disney Store and over-the-top holiday decorations! See a guest review on an afternoon at Tysons.

Other establishments that offer tea service, not all with a holiday focus but some with children in mind:
The Tavern at the Henley Park Holiday Tea
Children’s Holiday Tea at The Mandarin Oriental
The Jefferson
Tea Cellar in the Park Hyatt Washington
The St. Regis