afternoon tea at XIX

A day doesn't go by in my world without a steep and a sip. But every now and then I step outside the pot, and indulge in a traditional spot of tea. To celebrate my birthday, my family treated me to an indulgent afternoon tea at XIX's cafe at the Bellevue.

Our table faced the balcony that overlooked Philadelphia from the nineteenth floor. As we peaked at sunny spring views, the pots of tea arrived. A Mad Hatter's Tea Party ("A velvety combination of passion fruit, pomegranate and vanilla") and pot of Green Jasmine Oolong ("A seductive aroma of night-blooming jasmine perfumes this blend of fancy oolong and green tealeaves with rich body and wondrous pale jade liquor") elegantly steeped in glass tea pots.

Towering tiered trays of scones, sandwiches and sweets took center stage. Each delicate bite was carefully considered and never overpowered the taste of the bright sips of tea. My personal favorite, the cranberry scone with devonshire cream. Although if you prefer a savory nibble, the salmon sandwich was splendid.

While I savor every steeped moment in my day-to-day life, a decadent sip & nibble always adds a bit more passion to my love affair with tea.