Posted : December 16, 2013
Our blog is chock full of great ideas for fun things to see and do in York Durham and Headwaters. We are always adding new content and updating old posts, but sometimes you might stumble upon something from our vault. If this article has inspired you to hit the road, be sure to double-check that the featured stops in this post are still welcoming visitors.
Afternoon Tea, also known as High Tea, is the perfect opportunity for slowing down and enjoying the moment.
With the business of the holiday season, it’s a great way to warm up and forget about all the wrapping, unwrapping, shoveling and partying that lies ahead.
Afternoon Tea at the Hilton Toronto Markham Conference Centre is offered year round every Saturday and Sunday afternoon.
Unlike traditional afternoon teas, the one offered at Hilton Markham is buffet style instead of tiered platters brought to the table.
One snowy afternoon, my family headed to Hilton Markham for snack time.
Tea time takes place at Essence of Unionville (one of the two restaurants at Hilton – EDO is the other main restaurant), and is popular with locals – especially families.
During our visit, we saw families with infants, toddlers and school aged children all enjoying some R&R.
We were seated promptly along with others who had 3 PM reservations.
There is no extensive tea menu here although I’m sure if I had asked, something other than standard tea and coffee could have been ordered.
The drinks aren’t the draw here at Hilton Markham – it’s the finger sandwiches, pastries, bite sized desserts and their made-in-house scones.
The sweet treats were almost too pretty to eat. I say “almost” because we indulged a lot.
It’s the holidays, why not? No self control here.
Our kids headed straight for the sweet stuff – cheesecake on sticks, pudding, fruit and scones with clotted cream.
The adults tried to balance their plates with both sweet and savoury bites.
Egg Salad Sandwiches, Smoked Salmon on Rye, Chocolate Dipped Strawberries, Macaroons… How does one choose?!
Tarts, panna cotta in shot glasses, mixed fruit and apple pie was a great way to finish off afternoon tea.
The kids were happy, the adults were happy and we got a few minutes of relaxation during a very busy weekend.
We were energized enough to head back out into the cold for some tobogganing, shopping and a very light dinner.
We love the idea of afternoon tea and the all you can eat style tea break is just a bonus.
Afternoon Tea at Hilton Markham is very filling and could pass off as a complete meal.
Perfect for sweet and savoury tooths alike, Afternoon Tea at Hilton Markham is a great place to recharge during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
Essence of Unionville is a very kid friendly restaurant with wide aisles for strollers, highchairs available for younger guests, and an immaculately clean washroom with change table for quick diaper changes.
Afternoon Tea at Hilton Markham
Afternoon Tea is held every Saturday and Sunday 3 to 5 PM.
While reservations aren’t needed they are recommended during the holidays, long weekends and for large groups or parties.
Adults are $18 each, kids 2 and older are $9 and children under 2 years old are free. Prices include coffee, tea, water and the buffet.
To make reservations for Afternoon Tea, call 905-470-8500 or reserve a table online.
Cheryl is founder of Kids On A Plane – a blog dedicated to family travel in North America and the Caribbean. When she’s not on a plane, you can find her exploring York Region and the GTA with her two young children and husband.
