Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is offering a very Canadian afternoon tea set

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      You may have had your fair share of traditional English afternoon tea—complete with cucumber-and-cream-cheese finger sandwiches and a classic cup of earl grey tea.

      But you’ve probably never tried afternoon tea with a Canadian twist, which is exactly what’s on offer at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver’s Notch8 Restaurant (900 West Georgia Street).

      The legendary establishment is becoming known for its charming themed tea sets (Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, Old World Carnival, Brothers’ Grimm Fairy Tale), and its latest installment—Canada 150 ($59 per person plus taxes and gratuity)—may be its most creative idea yet.

      Guests get to enjoy this age-old tradition inside Notch8’s private dining room, which has been semi-transformed into a history museum with Canadian memorabilia such as vintage photographs, travel posters, and other Canada-themed décor.

      The patriotic afternoon tea set begins with the selection of your preferred tea, which includes everything from Fairmont earl grey to Kyoto cherry rose. But if you’re really into the Canada theme, go for the maple maple—a black tea with a caramel-like flavour.

      If you want a beverage with more of a kick, the special maple leaf cocktail (bourbon, maple syrup, lime and apple) is also available.

      Remember to pace yourself when the food starts to arrive; we also recommend wearing loose-fit clothing.

      Tasty scones served in a wooden boat.
      Tammy Kwan

      You start off with a palate-cleanser: maple panna cotta. From there, you’ll be treated to berry and oka scones served in photogenic wooden boats and paddles (for the berry compote and clotted cream); a Calgary Stampede corndog with wagyu beef; a classic lobster roll; and a Montreal smoked meat sandwich, among others.

      At this point, you may or may not have room for the sweets—you can definitely ask to pack the last course in a box if you’re beyond stuffed.

      The dessert platter includes a Nanaimo bar, Canadian mini donuts with bacon and cinnamon sugar, a beaver tail with Nutella, butter tart, and wild berry tart.

      There’s also a children’s tea ($29.50 plus taxes and gratuity, ages 12 and under) for the young ones with a penchant for classy eats. Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options are also available with advance notice.

      Fairmont’s Canada 150 afternoon tea set will be offered until September 3, 2017. 

      Follow Tammy Kwan on Twitter @ch0c0tam and Instagram @ch0c0tam.

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