Afternoon Tea at Seattle's Fairmont Olympic
Historic Hotel Offers Elegant Spread at Teatime
Oct 3, 2009
Since 1924, the Olympic has been the place to go in the Northwest for social events and sumptuous meals. Seattle has many fine hotels, but this is the one with the history. It's been renovated several times (sometimes beautifully, sometimes not so), and now, as part of the Fairmont group, it's living up to its past high repute.
The classic Italian Renaissance architecture, curving staircase, and uniformed bellmen are reminiscent of a bygone day, but the amenities and service are pure 21st century. Afternoon tea is a happy mixture of both.
Candles, Crystal, Silver and a Grand Piano Evoke Leisurely Luxury
In the Georgian Room, with its golden walls, high arched windows and crystal chandeliers, a tea menu is offered daily, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Music is often playing while the lucky participants view trays of assorted finger sandwiches, delicate teas and luscious sweets and pastries. Sandwiches, for example, might include smoked salmon and truffled egg salad on rye, goat cheese and asparagus with tomato chutney, and cucumber and kumquat brioche.
When the sweets tray arrives, a hush always falls over the table while everyone surveys the chocolate cupcakes, pineapple coconut bars, fruit tarts and French macaroons. These and other delectables are enjoyed by adults and children alike, as many Seattle families have made it a tradition to take their youngsters to tea, especially near the winter holidays.
Original College Site Honors Its History in Northwest Style
The site of the Fairmont Olympic Hotel is where the University of Washington began in the 19th century. The sprawling campus is far from here now, but the name of the street remains University, and a small plaque commemorates its origins. The award-winning hotel offers more than afternoon tea. Lunch and dinner are served in the Georgian Room and, for a different, very Northwest experience, fresh oysters are prepared in myriad ways -- including raw -- at the more casual Shuckers. This classic pub, with dark woods, microbrews and a chalkboard listing the daily specials, holds fast to Seattle's seafaring traditions.
Holiday Color Fills Seattle and the Fairmont Olympic at Christmas
All of downtown Seattle explodes with light and sound at Christmas time, and the Fairmont Olympic is no exception. It's a festive scene, from the enchanting teddy bear room to strolling choirs to light-strung trees scenting the air with fir. Many a weary shopper has been glad of a free ride in the hotel town car from busy stores to the peaceful Georgian Room and a relaxing afternoon tea among the twinkling lights.
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