Hotel Afternoon Tea at Ette Hotel, Kissimmee, Florida

Written By: Gail Clifford | Published By: Weekend Notes | June 04, 2024

Sipping Elegance: A High Tea Affair at Ette Hotel

High Tea at the Ette Hotel

On the west side of Kissimmee, Florida, just south of the Disney parks in Orlando lies the Ette Hotel where the allure of high tea meets the enchantment of a Missoni-lined garden escape, a sanctuary of refinement and indulgence. Recently, my daughter, her boyfriend, and I embarked on a journey transcending time and space, immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of flavors and experiences that awaited us.

Every Sunday, from noon to 4 pm, the Ette Hotel opens to enthusiasts of the finer things in life, inviting them to partake in a symphony of flavors at their Hotel Afternoon Tea. Guests are welcomed by the lush embrace of its open and inviting ambiance, ensconced beyond their open lobby, and treated to an unparalleled culinary experience curated by none other than Michelin-starred Chef Akira Back.

Ette Hotel Lobby

Upon entering the lobby of the Ette Hotel, we were immediately captivated by its serene haven adorned with spa goods and stylish seating arrangements, setting the stage for what promised to be a memorable afternoon. A striking black figure mannequin, elegantly attired in a resplendent white dress, fascinator, and intricate jewelry, stood as a testament to the hotel’s commitment to sophistication and grace.

As we settled into our seats, our senses were awakened by the tantalizing aromas of Mariage Frères teas, renowned for their exquisite flavors and unparalleled quality. From the robust depths of Darjeeling to the delicate allure of green teas, each brew beckoned us to embark on a voyage of discovery—a journey through time and tradition.

Ette Hotel tea sommelier Perola

Our journey into the world of tea commenced under the expert guidance of Perola, our tea sommelier from Brazil. With meticulous attention to detail, Perola introduced us to the diverse array of teas on offer, presenting individual vials of loose tea in a charming wooden box. From the robust flavors of Darjeeling and Earl Grey to the delicate nuances of green and Blue teas, each selection tantalized the senses. However, it was the enchanting “wedding white tea” that stole the show, with its rich notes of chocolate and caramel, leaving an indelible mark on our palates as one of our chosen teas.

One minor disappointment arose when we discovered the limit of one pot of tea per person, a fact that was not explicitly mentioned beforehand. While the staff graciously refilled our pots with hot water, the restriction seemed somewhat restrictive given the premium price point of the experience. Nonetheless, it was a small blemish on an otherwise flawless afternoon of indulgence.