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The Journey to the Renovation
When the Huntington Tea Room announced its closure for renovations, anticipation buzzed. The historical Tea Room, beloved both for its delectable offerings and its elegant atmosphere, embarked on a significant overhaul. Nearing a century since its initial opening, this marked the first major remodel in its storied past.
The revamp began in earnest, preserving the original allure while infusing modern comforts. For nine months, anticipation grew as teasers of the transformation leaked. This wasn’t a hasty refresh; it was a meticulous reimagining, meant to usher the Huntington Tea Room into a new era while respecting its heritage.
Finally, in May 2023, the doors reopened. The demand skyrocketed, with reservation books filling rapidly. The wait was extensive, signaling the depth of the Tea Room’s footprint in Los Angeles’ culinary and social scene. But the question lingered: was the lengthy wait and the eventual experience worth the anticipation and eagerness?
Patrons like Wendy Klarik, who succeeded in securing a reservation, embarked on the renovated journey to find out. With friends in tow, the renovated Huntington Tea Room awaited them. What they found was a confluence of history and modernity, melded seamlessly to provide an elevated tea experience that honored the legacy of the Tea Room.
Was all the effort to preserve the essence of the Tea Room while giving it a facelift successful? Was the journey of renovation, with its extended timeline and suspenseful buildup, justified in the end? Fans and first-time visitors alike would soon discover the results of this ambitious project.
The Remodeled Ambience of the Huntington Tea Room
After its renovation, the Huntington Tea Room has transformed significantly, merging modern elegance with its historical charm. Visitors will notice meticulous updates that respect the Tea Room’s heritage while providing a contemporary touch.
The Exterior and Foyer
The exterior of the Huntington Tea Room retains its classic appeal, enhanced with subtle modern upgrades. The entrance and foyer have been redesigned to create an inviting atmosphere for guests, setting the tone for the sophisticated experience that awaits inside.
Tea Room Interior
Inside, the Tea Room presents a refreshing, stylish interior that compliments its traditional roots. The space is a blend of old-world charm and modern chic, with updated furnishings that enhance comfort without overshadowing the room’s historic character. This balance ensures that each visit feels both familiar and revitalizing.
The Shakespeare Pavilion
Adjacent to the main tea room, the newly added Shakespeare Pavilion offers an exclusive retreat for guests. This elegant space is ideal for quieter, more intimate gatherings and overlooks the stunning gardens, providing a scenic backdrop that enhances the overall ambiance. This addition proves to be a worthy complement to the Tea Room’s renovated offerings.
Savoring the Tea Room Menu
Once inside the Huntington Tea Room, the menu invites exploration and delight. It offers choices that cater to varied palettes, tying the whole experience together. With options spanning from classic to contemporary, the tea selection promises something for every tea lover.
Traditional Tea Selection
The menu centerpiece, the Traditional Tea, emerges as a dignified nod to classic tea service. Patrons choose from a set array of teas, accompanied by fresh scones. Each element of the menu reflects careful selection and quality.
Seasonal Tea Choices
Seasonality influences the tea roster. Regular updates mean guests can anticipate new flavors fitting the time of year. From robust Pumpkin Chai Spice in autumn to refreshing Dark Chocolate Peppermint closer to winter, these selections enhance the Tea Room’s charm.Visitors enjoy both the timeless Huntington Signature Blend and the diverse, changing options.
Savory and Sweet Delicacies
The Huntington Tea Room doesn’t just excel in teas; their culinary finesse shines in the savory and sweet treats offered. Guests rave about selections like the Cucumber with Dill Cream Sandwich and the moreish Cranberry Salad Sandwich. The sweet palate is tempted with an assortment of fine pastries, each more delightful than the last. This blend of flavors underlines the Tea Room’s dedication to a full-sensory experience.
A Toast to the Beverages
Champagne and Wine Options
The Huntington Tea Room offers a sophisticated beverage menu to complement its array of teas. Patrons can select from various champagne and wine options, enhancing the dining experience. The choices range from a modest $10.00 per glass up to a luxurious $33.00, catering to different preferences and occasions. Whether celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a leisurely afternoon, the selection of bubbles and wines add a celebratory touch to the tea experience.
Specialty Teas and Scones
In addition to its extensive tea list, the Huntington Tea Room is renowned for its specialty teas and freshly baked scones. The specialty teas often feature unique blends and seasonal ingredients, offering a delightful surprise with every visit. Scones, a staple of traditional tea service, are available in a variety of flavors. From the rich maple butterscotch scone to more classic options, each is crafted to pair perfectly with the tea selections. These specialty items ensure every visit to the Huntington Tea Room is both delicious and memorable.
Evaluating the Value of the Experience
Visiting the Huntington Tea Room comes with its costs. But is it truly worth it? Here’s a breakdown of what to expect financially and what you get in return.
Comparing Costs and Offerings
Visitors to the Huntington Tea Room can choose between different menu options. The Traditional Tea is priced at $62 per person, while the Huntington Tea is $75. Additional items like champagne and wine range from $10 to $33 per glass. However, keep in mind that access to Huntington Gardens also requires a ticket, priced at $25. This makes the minimum cost for a visit over $100 per person.
While not the cheapest outing, the offerings justify the price to a great extent. Patrons enjoy a rich selection of teas, both traditional and seasonal, along with an array of savory and sweet dishes. These are designed to cater to diverse palates and enhance the overall experience.
Worthwhile for Garden and Museum Enthusiasts
For those who appreciate both natural beauty and cultural artifacts, this venue is a hit. The ticket cost includes access to Huntington Gardens and its museums. Visitors are advised to allocate ample time after their tea to explore these attractions. The expansive gardens and museum collections can take hours to fully appreciate.
To truly maximize your visit, planning is key. Ensure to schedule enough time to both savor the tea experience and explore the surrounding beauties. Those visiting in spring and summer may find it especially rewarding when the gardens are in full bloom.
Planning Your Visit
When envisioning a day at the Huntington Tea Room, planning is crucial. Coordinating your admission with the meal arrangements can enhance your visit significantly, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Admission and Meal Considerations
Before planning, note the Tea Room admission combines with the Huntington Gardens ticket. The entry ticket to the gardens is $25, required for all guests. This is important when calculating the total visit cost. Inside, meal options vary. The Traditional Tea costs $62 per person, while the Huntington Tea option is at $75. Factor in any drinks, such as champagne or wine, which start at $10. Set a budget ahead and select options that align with your preferences and planned expenses.
Time Management for Exploring The Huntington
To fully enjoy The Huntington, manage your time well. Expect to spend over an hour dining at the Tea Room. Post-tea, the gardens and museums call for attention. They are vast and rich with sights that deserve unhurried exploration. Plan for at least a few hours after dining to wander through the rose gardens or to visit cultural exhibits. Remember, exploring these gardens and museums might take much longer than anticipated. If you’re keen on seeing it all, consider splitting the visit over two days. Set a realistic itinerary that allows you to relish each aspect of The Huntington without rush.
Tips for An Optimal Experience
To make the most out of your visit to the Huntington Tea Room, a few tips can help ensure a memorable and hassle-free experience.
Best Times to Visit
To truly enjoy the Tea Room and its surroundings, timing is key. Spring and summer boast full-bloom gardens, enhancing the ambiance. Weekdays may offer a quieter visit compared to weekends. Early afternoons are ideal for tea, allowing time afterwards to explore the gardens.
Purchasing Favorites from the Gift Shop
After savoring the teas, you may find a favorite blend. The gift shop sells many of the teas featured on the menu. Pick up a box to enjoy the flavors of the Huntington Tea Room at home. Gifting these teas or bringing home a souvenir can extend the pleasure of your visit.
Concluding Thoughts on the Tea Room Experience
As we reflect on the journey through the renovated Huntington Tea Room, a few key takeaways emerge. This locale not only provides a sumptuous tea experience but also connects patrons with a slice of Los Angeles’ cultural heritage. The meticulous enhancements have maintained the old-world charm while incorporating modern comfort, making the Huntington Tea Room a must-visit for both historical and culinary enthusiasts.
Is the experience worth its cost? Considering the quality and range of the offerings, along with the admission to the Huntington Gardens and museums, the answer leans heavily towards yes. The entire experience wraps cultural depth and dining delight into one package, presenting significant value especially to those who appreciate history and natural beauty.
Planning and timing your visit can notably enhance your experience. A visit during spring or summer lets you enjoy the gardens in full bloom, adding to the tea room’s charm. Furthermore, ensuring enough time to explore the surrounding gardens and museums will maximize the value of your visit.
Finally, storing a piece of the Huntington at home, by purchasing your favorite teas from the gift shop, extends the pleasure of your visit and brings a portion of its refined elegance into your everyday life. In summary, the Huntington Tea Room offers a rich, well-rounded experience that is certainly worth the price and effort, particularly for those who value a comprehensive sensory and cultural outing.
