By Zoe Howard-Barr 

Cherry blossom season is almost upon us. With it comes the Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea at Peacock Alley at the Waldorf Astoria.   

Located in the hotel’s atrium — and surrounded by breathtaking cherry blossom décor — guests can indulge in a selection of sweet and savory bites infused with cherry flavors, paired with a selection of Tealeaves’ rare spring blends.   

Guests are served two-tiered trays of savories and sweets and a brewed pot of the tea of their choice. The signature Cherry Blossom tea is a fusion of Japanese sencha green tea and sweet candied cherry.   

Featured savory items include a cherry ricotta toast, cherry chicken mousse with finger lime caviar, a cherry chipotle shrimp cocktail and a prosciutto and cherry slider. Vegetarian versions are also offered.   

On the sweet side, lemon poppy seed and chocolate cherry scones are available, served with Devonshire cream, lemon curd and cherry blossom jam. There is also a range of small treats, from pistachio macarons and mango meringue tarts to cherry cream puffs.  

I preferred the sweet to the savory selections; however, the green tea, cherry ricotta toast and strawberry Sakura shortbread were especially delightful. The desserts were the true highlight, especially the cherry cream puff, which was light, airy and subtly cherry-flavored.  

Guests can upgrade the experience with an exclusive cherry blossom-inspired cocktail. The Cherry Cotton Candy Kiss is an elixir of Grey Goose vodka, St-Germain, cranberry juice and housemade cotton candy cherry syrup, garnished with cotton candy for a whimsical touch.  

During the tea, a harpist plays, accompanied by the springlike sounds of chirping birds.  

Considering that the tea starts at $120 per person — with the option of adding a signature cocktail — it’s a good choice for a special occasion such as an anniversary, a visit from one’s parents or children, a milestone birthday or a festive outing with friends.   

Reservations are now available via OpenTable. 

 

 

 

tagsAfernoon Teacherry blossomcherry blossom teaWaldorf Astoria