Our vacations in Orlando are never complete without an Afternoon Tea at The Garden View Lounge in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa – we try to visit at least twice each trip. Decorated in light pinks, salmons, whites and greens of the resort, The Garden View Lounge is situated in a small intimate area just off the main atrium in a lovely garden setting.
Turning back the clock to the centuries old British tradition of afternoon tea, all served on “Prince Albert” fine china, you almost feel as though you have been transported back in time to the Victorian era.
You are at once made to feel very welcome by the staff who are all in Victorian costume and are extremely attentive. There is no need to dress formally, we always wear shorts and t-shirts and never feel uncomfortable.
My choice is usually the Buckingham Palace - traditional tea sandwiches, scones and jam tarts complimented by fresh strawberries and cream, or a selection of freshly baked pastries, along with a varied choice of teas.
Your server will always describe the various choices of dainty finger sandwiches, which is then followed by mouth-watering scones with jam and cream. Be sure to leave room for the delicious selection of pastries, the choux pastry swan with confectioner’s cream and a tiny fruit tart being two of my favourites.
For those who prefer something a little more savoury I recommend the Gentleman's Tea Platter - a delicious array of duck and cherry terrine, chicken & pork roulade, country pate en croute, and English Blue Stilton, the "king" of English cheeses. Served with marinated fresh berries and Cumberland sauce.
Prices range from $15 to $25 although you can of course opt for the a la carte offerings, which are less expensive, including Lemon Pound Cake or Sally Lunn bread. Whatever you choose you will not be disappointed.
Teas too numerous to mention, range from traditional English Breakfast to Hot Cinnamon Spice or Herbal Peppermint and Lemon Verbena. Coffee, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are also available.
If you are looking for something a little bit different from the norm and enjoy listening to genteel piano music whilst you sip tea from the very best fine china, then an Afternoon Tea in The Garden View Lounge is a must-do! You will find it a very relaxing and enjoyable afternoon spent away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks and well worth a trip.
Tea is served every afternoon from 2pm until 6pm. You can either book in advance by calling WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) or take a chance, although we have never had to wait more than 30 minutes for a table. Enjoy!