Spring has sprung at The St. Regis Toronto's Astor Lounge, where a profusion of blooming trees, Whitley Neill Gin cocktails, and a new afternoon tea menu are sure to put you in a springtime frame of mind. Launching April 22, the new Rhythm & Blooms Pop-Up will usher guests from grey, damp days toward spring's lively, brilliant reawakening.
Always an elegant refuge from the bustle of the city, Astor Lounge has been transformed into an enchanted tea garden by way of pretty, pink cherry blossom trees and an innovative menu of seasonal sips. Created in partnership with Whitley Neill Gin, the U.K.'s number one selling premium gin, new drinks include the Toronto 75, with Champagne, gooseberries and lemon simple syrup, and the Caroline Sour. Inspired by the Astor family matriarch, the drink features the hotel's signature tea blend, infused with floral notes, exotic wood and the essence of Champagne. Guests can also expect live jazz music on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Additionally, as a way to bid farewell to the day in style, the Astor Lounge hosts daily Champagne sabrage at 6 p.m., one of The St. Regis Hotel's Signature Rituals.
The Afternoon Tea Ritual, another exclusive ceremony, is one of The St. Regis’ best. Imagine a parade of perfect, petite bites laid out lavishly on a modern, revolving tea stand. Then, picture yourself savouring each morsel in the lap of Astor Lounge’s luxury, sipping on tea, or something a little stronger. A playful twist on tradition, the team’s new Prohibition Afternoon Tea, also launching on April 22, features new menu items and shareable, chilled teapot cocktails. Spring-inspired eats include peppy Citrus Smoked Salmon with orange cream cheese and Egg Salad brightened with chive aioli, a hint of smoked paprika and the unexpected pop of fried capers.
There’s also a divine display of sweets worthy of attention. With crème diplomat and a sable cookie base, Raspberry Honey and Lavender Tart is smooth, crunchy, subtle and sweet. Infused with the hotel’s signature tea blend, Midnight Blossom, the team’s still-warm madeleines with white chocolate ganache are a decadent version of the classic. Baked Peach and Yogurt Panna Cotta, with Ontario peaches and vanilla Chantilly hints at warmer days ahead.
A selection of brews from Sloane Fine Tea Merchants is always available, though the Prohibition Afternoon Tea also offers the option to enjoy a teapot brimming with a different type of brew. The Bee’s Knees, with Whitley Neill Original London Dry Gin, lemon juice, and green tea honey syrup, is bright, refreshing and comes garnished with dehydrated lemon. Featuring one of the season’s most beloved ingredients, the Queen’s Tea is a combination of Whitley Neill Rhubarb and Ginger Gin, lime juice, and peach iced tea.
If you want to slip into spring with a little pomp and just the right amount of pleasure, there’s no better spot to be than The St. Regis Hotel's Astor Lounge. Pop in for cocktails or reserve your Prohibition Afternoon Tea today!
