Fort Worth’s High Temple of Tea — This Downtown Hotel Pulls Out All the Stops For Grand Tradition
October 9,2019
See full Paper City article by Kimber Westphall here.
With the Texas weather finally transitioning toward autumn temperatures, it’s actually starting to feel a little more like fall. Needless to say, with “chillier” degrees, Texans are looking for ways to usher in the new season cheerfully.
From historical ghost tours in the Fort Worth Stockyards to the extravagant pumpkin display at the Dallas Arboretum, there is no shortage of Texas festivities for the fall and holiday season. And one of Fort Worth’s most festive holiday happenings takes place at The Ashton Hotel on Main Street.
This boutique hotel pulls out all the stops for its fall and holiday tea services. This six-story historic gem resides in the heart of downtown Fort Worth on Main Street, and is one of the city’s most beloved spots for seasonal celebrations.
Along with the 39 hotel rooms that make up the property, the Ashton has its very own tea room. With a traditional English tea presentation, expect to see the usual loose leaf tea options (18 different kinds to be exact throughout the year). But don’t be surprised if the afternoon tea session kicks off with a sparkling glass of champagne.
Tea for one. Tea for two. Or tea for a big, Texas-sized group. The sky’s the limit at The Ashton. The staff loves to creatively customize tea experiences for all ages and occasions.
From bridal showers to Christmas parties to even intimate, one-on-one dates, The Ashton accommodates all kinds of requests for this special occasion outing. The Fort Worth hotel even offers a Teddy Bear Tea Time for kiddos.
Who wouldn’t want to invite a collection of stuffed animals to the ultimate tea party? Regardless of a party’s size or the guests’ ages, everyone is greeted with reserved tables garnished with fine bone china from England. The Ashton is ready should the Queen pay a visit to Texas.
Currently the hotel is offering its fall tea service menu (the offerings and menu themes transition each season), complete with four courses of autumn-inspired savory and sweet delights. One of the most popular harvest-influenced menu items is the butternut squash bisque.
And as a nod to its Texas roots, The Ashton had to include its signature fall southwestern vegetable tamale, paired with tomatillo dipping sauce. But getting to the sweetest part of the meal, don’t forget the cinnamon apple scones or pumpkin spice tarts.
At the end of November, the fall menu will be retired and tea time will become even more festive with the hotel’s annual holiday service, which runs from November 29 to December 29. Chef Enrique Estrada is keeping the holiday menu under lock and key until it’s revealed in November. But the good news is the holiday tea service expands its hours to Thursdays through Sundays, from 2 to 4 p.m.
During the non-holiday season, tea service is only offered Saturday afternoons.
To learn more about the afternoon tea experience at the Ashton Hotel in Fort Worth, click here. Reserving an afternoon tea costs $50 per person (valet parking is included).
Location Mentioned: The Ashton