Today I was invited to a sneak peek of the brand new Beauty and the Beast themed afternoon tea for the spring season at Trump Hotel Vancouver. This season's "A Tale As Old As Time Afternoon Tea" features treats shaped into the beloved characters and symbols from the enchanted fairy tale. Although the hotel has featured some very well-made desserts in the other themed teas they offered in the past, this time pastry chef Fumiko Moreton has really outdone herself with some of the very intricate dessert pieces like the magic mirror cookie, Belle's rose cake pop and Mrs. Potts & Chip. 
I really enjoyed this set for the sweet theme and the move towards a more sophisticated color palette that is more in line with the aesthetics of a luxury hotel because some patrons may not like to have their fingers or teeth stained after touching/eating desserts with too much artificial coloring. Although that is inevitable sometimes when creating cute looking desserts with features like eyes and mouth but, of course, the lesser, the better, right? - especially when it's served in an elegant setting like the Trump Champagne Lounge. 
Trying the new scone flavours for the season has become something I look forward to. This season, it is the raspberry-rose scone served along with what has now become a regular flavour - Kyoto Uji-Matcha. In addition, there is also a mini Gougere French Cheese Puff in the scone basket. The scones are served with a lemon curd, strawberry & rhubarb jam and clotted cream. Note: the menu says clotted cream but it was introduced as a Creme Fraiche. I believe it as the latter since it was tart and I would have preferred it just creamy without the tartness.
The savouries were of a descent size and quite filling so I ended up packing up most of the desserts to finish off later at home. I really enjoyed the fois gras pate brioche, smoked salmon blini and beef ragout with potato puree.
Most of the effort and "wow" factor in this tea set is in the desserts. Every piece is a character or symbol in the story of The Beauty and the Beast. The intricate magic mirror cookie, the clock and teapot all make for wonder conversation pieces. I found myself admiring the craftsmanship of it all for a long time before finally devouring it.
I really enjoyed this new themed tea from the Trump Hotel. It will run everyday from 12 pm to 4 pm from January 14th - March 17th, 2019. I should also take this time to tell you about the new Trump Champagne Lounge "Be Our Guest Program" as well. Make a reservation and experience 3 different afternoon tea sets in a year. You and your guest will then be invited to attend the hosted premier launch of 2 other afternoon tea sets alongside local influencers and meet pastry chef Fumiko in person. Maybe I'll see you there? :)Until our next tea date!
XOXO,
Mimi
Be Our Guest Afternoon Tea $65/person
Address: 1161 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6E 0C6 Phone: (604) 979-8888
Reservations available daily, 12:00PM - 4:00PM
[email protected]
Disclosure: All drinks and food were complimentary. All opinions are my own.
Ash says
This looks amazing! I’ll be sure to have tea here again this year. How much does it cost for the premier launches of 2 other afternoon tea sets after experiencing three, is it still $65? Thank you 🙂
Mimi says
Hi Ash,
I think you're talking about The Be Our Guest program? I believe it is complimentary 🙂 XOXO, Mimi
Laura says
This is so adorable! I didn't know about it before - will for sure be popping along to check it out
Mimi says
I hope you'll enjoy it too! This is one of the better tea sets in Vancouver. It's a little more pricey but I do find it is justified.
XOXO,
Mimi