Provo, UT

Last weekend my friend Tracy invited me to Afternoon Tea at the Grand America Hotel as her birthday gift to me. The invitation inspired in me as much excitement and anticipation as my daughter exudes when she sets up her play tea set and waits for her “guests” to arrive. The Grand America’s Afternoon Tea is like a tea party for grownups in the most delightful and sophisticated way.

From the moment we pulled up to The Grand America (Salt Lake City’s only five-diamond hotel) we received VIP treatment: valet parking, doormen, concierge. From our first steps through the front doors into the elegant lobby, we were greeted by Old World charm and grandeur. Spectacular chandeliers, fine French furnishings, and Italian marble–as well as a diverse, friendly, and largely European staff–awaited us at every turn.

The concierge escorted us to the impressive Lobby Lounge for our 3 p.m. reservation, where floor-to-ceiling damask drapes frame the windows, plush loveseats are centered under sparkling chandeliers near the piano, and the cherry tables are spaced far enough apart to encourage privacy and intimacy. Our table overlooked the garden courtyard, as requested in advance by Tracy. The lounge was fairly empty (not surprising for a Sunday in Utah) although there were a few groups of women and a twenty-something couple seated on the sofas, and a mother with two young daughters a few tables over from us. I would love to take my daughter when she’s a little older and can really appreciate it.

Since it was my birthday, Tracy decided to go all out and splurge on the Grand Traditions Tea ($30, but you can also get a simpler Afternoon Tea for $16, or tea by the pot for $3.50). The Grand Traditions menu included a glass of champagne; a fruit and imported cheese plate; seven finger sandwiches; an English scone with clotted cream, strawberry jam, and lemon curd; an assortment of cakes and pastries; and of course, tea. There were about 25 different types of teas to choose from, including black, green, white, and caffeine-free herbal teas. Hot chocolate was also available. I chose a cranberry autumn black tea, and Tracy chose a chocolate mint tea, with the most incredible, uplifting aroma.

First we were served our individual pots of tea, which were kept refreshed with hot water throughout the meal. Next came the champagne, and an elegantly-presented selection of fresh berries, thinly sliced pears, and soft cheeses (including brie and a delicious cherry-almond creamed cheese) with water crackers and biscuits. As we took in the beautiful garden view and sipped our champagne and tea, we enjoyed the piano tinkling in the background. During the pianist’s breaks classical music played. It was the perfect backdrop for a sophisticated and relaxing afternoon.

I loved that they didn’t rush us. We had plenty of time to talk and sip and really enjoy the food and the ambiance. The attention given to each customer and every detail makes you feel truly pampered and special. When we first sat down, the waitress poured hot water over something that looked like a cork in an oversized wine goblet; in a matter of seconds, the “cork” blossomed into an exotic flower right before our eyes. As Tracy pointed out, it’s these small details turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.

The finger sandwiches and scones, served on a three-tiered stand, were so much more delicious than we expected. Little touches like a slice of Kalamata olive on top of hummus, or a tiny watercress leaf on the shrimp salad take each bite to a whole new level. Tracy (my foodie friend) also noted just how mouthwatering and scrumptious something as simple as a single slice of turkey on fresh bread can be when the ingredients are top quality.

One of the truly indulgent items we experienced was the clotted cream, imported from France, that was served with the scones. Thick and slightly sweet, it coats your mouth with a creamy richness–and once you’ve tried it, you’ll never want to go back to plain old butter again. (I’m lucky it was birthday, or I’m sure Tracy would have fought me for the last of it!)

Once the dessert cart rolled around I was sure I had died and gone to heaven. We had our choice of two cakes, including a heavenly chocolate cheesecake, or three delectable French pastries, accompanied by strawberries and fresh cream. Afterwards, we took a stroll around the luxurious hotel and courtyard gardens, enjoying the fountains and browsing the upscale shops.

It was an afternoon spent indulging in great food, conversation and friendship. And I learned something that afternoon: you’re never too old for a tea party.

Afternoon Tea is served daily from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. For details and reservations: http://www.grandamerica.com/tea.html