Introduction to Afternoon Tea at The Hotel Granduca
The Hotel Granduca, a European-inspired hotel located in Uptown Park, has resumed its tea service. This luxurious hotel now serves tea every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 12-2 pm. Afternoon tea was a staple of Granduca’s Alba Ristorante before the hotel underwent renovations last year. With the reopening of the hotel in March, Chef Maurizio Ferrarese has updated the offering, bringing a new twist to the traditional tea service.
The New Tea Service
Instead of serving tea at Remi, the hotel’s restaurant, tea is now offered in the Alba Tea Room, which is located near the restaurant. According to Chef Ferrarese, "We offer afternoon tea to celebrate hospitality and tradition. It complements our Italian-inspired cuisine by bringing elegance and refinement to the experience, in the same way we approach every dish." The tea service is designed to be a unique experience, where guests can slow down and savor the flavors and atmosphere.
Menu Offerings
The Granduca’s Italian-inspired spin on traditional English-style tea service features a mix of sweet and savory bites. Some of the menu offerings include:
- Roasted mushroom profiterole puff with goat cheese and black truffles
- Creamy egg salad on whole grain bread
- Prosciutto de Parma puff pastry crisp with lemon ricotta
- Desserts: Coffee tiramisu, lemon curd tart with fresh raspberry, ricotta and pistachio cannolo, and more
Unique Italian Twist
The tea service at The Hotel Granduca has a distinct Italian soul, with seasonal flavors, artisanal pastries, and savory bites inspired by Alba, Piedmont, and northern Italian regions. As Chef Ferrarese explains, "Our tea has an Italian soul; seasonal flavors, artisanal pastries, mascarpone spread to replace the English clotted cream and savory bites inspired by Alba, Piedmont, and northern Italian region." Guests can also supplement their tea with Italian-inspired cocktails, such as the Langhe Bloom and the Nebbiolo Negroni.
Pricing and Reservations
The tea service at The Hotel Granduca offers various pricing options, including:
- Frizzante d’Alba ($79): Includes one glass of prosecco
- Champagne e Tea ($89): Includes one glass of champagne
- Apertivo e Tea ($89): Includes one signature cocktail
- Tea Reale ($98): Includes one caviar bite and one glass of champagne
- Little Truffle Hunters Tea ($39): Includes a special kid-friendly menu for children 8 and under
Reservations are available via OpenTable.
Conclusion
The Hotel Granduca’s afternoon tea service is a unique and luxurious experience that combines traditional English-style tea with Italian-inspired flavors and hospitality. With its elegant atmosphere, seasonal menu offerings, and Italian-inspired cocktails, The Hotel Granduca’s tea service is a must-try for anyone looking to slow down and savor the moment. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, The Hotel Granduca’s tea service is an experience you won’t want to miss.
