It’s Bridgerton season once again, as Netflix unveils the third installment of its beloved period drama, captivating audiences with its lush visuals and intricate storytelling. In Los Angeles, the charm of high society meets the city’s vibrant culture through the delightful tradition of Afternoon Tea, a perfect pastime for fans of the show. Amidst this craze, Dahlia at the Downtown L.A. Proper emerges as a beacon of elegance and tranquility in the bustling heart of the city.
A Michelin Key Award-Winning Venue
Nestled in the chic Downtown L.A. Proper hotel, which has earned the prestigious Michelin Key Award 2024, Dahlia is a testament to its exceptional culinary and service standards. The venue, designed by the renowned Kelly Wearstler, draws inspiration from Mexican modernism and Moroccan influences. The interiors are a harmonious blend of pinks, warm ambers, and verdant greens, enhanced by textured tilework and vintage furnishings, creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Experiencing the Afternoon Tea
Upon my visit, the experience was nothing short of impeccable. The service was attentive and warm, making me feel like a cherished guest. The ambiance was a serene escape from the city’s hustle, reminiscent of the tranquil vibes of Tulum. It was a perfect setting to indulge in the newly introduced Afternoon Tea service.
TEALEAVES’ premium loose-leaf teas were a delightful highlight of the Afternoon Tea experience at Dahlia. Their carefully curated selection perfectly complemented the flavors of the small bites, enhancing each dish with its unique taste profiles. I opted for the Lavender Earl Grey, and its complex, floral notes beautifully complemented the textures and flavors of the dishes.
They have a variety of small-bites selection that you can choose from and to highlight a few, I would pay attention to Suzanne’s deviled-egg sandwich with piri piri and shallots, crab sandwich with crème fraîche and any of their sweet desserts (if you really wanted to choose which one to first eat, I would recommend the yuzu meringue tart). Tasting these bites, you can understand why this tea experience was more than just your regular tea time. Below, I added the options that you can expect from this experience.
The Exquisite Menu
The James Beard Award-winning duo, Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne, have recently transformed Dahlia into a daytime oasis with their Afternoon Tea offering. Known for its botanical cocktails, rare spirits and elegant tableside service, Dahlia now provides a different kind of respite by daylight.
The Afternoon Tea menu features a delightful array of sweet and savory bites crafted by Goin, paired with a cocktail, non-alcoholic cocktail, or champagne, curated by Styne, and a tea program by TEALEAVES premium loose-leaf teas. For those with dietary preferences, a completely vegan menu option is available. The variety offered was impressive, featuring the Pantone Color of the Year: Peach Fuzz with its fruity and floral notes, the robust and malty Golden Assam, and the aromatic Lavender Earl Grey with organic lavender, rose petals, and natural bergamot oil. Other intriguing options included the whimsical Mad Hatter’s Tea Party with natural fruit and vanilla essences, the nutty and savory Genmai Cha with puffed rice and roasted barley, the vibrant Wild Himalayan Mountain Tea blending elderberry, hibiscus, currants, saskatoon berry, marigold, roses, and strawberry flavors, and the soothing Organic Himalayan Meadow Chamomile with chamomile flowers, lemongrass, orange peel, and rose petals
Highlights from the traditional menu include:
- crab sandwich with crème fraîche and Weiser’s radish
- avocado bruschetta with cotija and salsa morita
- Suzanne’s deviled-egg sandwich with piri piri and shallots
- smoked salmon with lemon cream and Aleppo
- cucumber + crème fraiche with optional caviar (+$65)
- pistachio financier, mint chocolate madeleine, and yuzu meringue tart
- Dahlia’s take on traditional afternoon tea accoutrements like vanilla bean scone, Devonshire cream and raspberry jam
Vegan menu highlights include:
- cucumber + basil with dill and cilantro scallion pistou
- braised leek tartine with house-made vegan butter
- piquillo + pumpernickel with artichoke hummus
- beet hummus + pita with pickled shallots
- coconut tart, fig almond cookie, yuzu madeleine, and apricot pecan scone
For those looking to elevate their experience, various pricing options are available:
- $60/pp for the tea experience
- $70/pp for the tea experience plus Peach Fuzz Fizz N/A cocktail
- $75/pp for the tea experience plus a glass of Laurent Perrier champagne
- $85/pp for the tea experience plus a glass of Laurent Perrier rosé champagne
Why you should come
Whether you’re a Bridgerton enthusiast or simply seeking a refined afternoon in the heart of L.A., Dahlia’s Afternoon Tea is an experience not to be missed. Imagine yourself indulging in meticulously crafted bites, sipping on expertly selected teas or champagne, and soaking in the serene ambiance that offers a perfect respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. Each moment at Dahlia promises to transport you to a world of elegance and charm, where every detail is designed to delight. Come for the culinary delights, stay for the serene sophistication, and leave with memories of an afternoon well spent in luxurious tranquility.
For More Information and Reservations, Visit properhotel.com
Location: Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel, Ground Floor, 1100 S. Broadway Los Angeles
Hours:
Wednesday: 6 –10 p.m.
Limited seating, reservations required*
Photo credits: Courtesy of The Proper Downtown L.A.
