High Tea at the Ritz Paris – An Afternoon of Elegance at Bar Vendôme

Bonjour, lovely readers! Today, I’m sharing my unforgettable high tea experience at the Ritz Paris – a name synonymous with luxury, elegance, and Parisian charm. There’s something truly magical about the Ritz, with its rich history and opulent ambiance, and having tea at Bar Vendôme was an experience to remember. Nestled within the legendary Place Vendôme, the Ritz is not just a hotel but an icon of Parisian grandeur.

The History and Grandeur of the Ritz Paris

Founded in 1898 by visionary hotelier César Ritz, the Ritz Paris has long been synonymous with refinement, innovation, and timeless luxury. From the very beginning, it set new standards for hospitality, becoming a favored address for royalty, artists, writers, and icons who shaped cultural history. Coco Chanel famously lived at the Ritz for decades, Ernest Hemingway considered the bar his Parisian refuge, and Princess Diana dined here in the final days of her life, each leaving behind a quiet echo of glamour and intrigue.

Bar Vendôme embodies this extraordinary legacy in a way that feels intimate rather than imposing. The décor blends classic Parisian elegance with warmth: plush armchairs, polished wood paneling, elegant moldings, and soft golden lighting that flatters both the room and the moment. Large windows open onto Place Vendôme, allowing daylight to filter in gently by afternoon and creating a cozy, cocoon-like glow as evening falls. Sitting here, you feel suspended between past and present – surrounded by stories, style, and an unmistakable sense of occasion. It’s not just a place to enjoy tea; it’s a place to linger, reflect, and savor Paris at its most graceful.

The Culinary Delights

The afternoon tea service is a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring an assortment of delicate pastries and confections. Afternoon tea at the Ritz Paris is a true symphony of flavors, textures, and craftsmanship, where every element reflects the house’s devotion to French pâtisserie at its highest level. The presentation alone feels ceremonial – delicate, precise, and undeniably beautiful – but it’s the balance of taste and finesse that truly lingers.

The experience unfolds with an exquisite assortment of petits fours and seasonal biscuits, each one a small work of art showcasing refined technique and subtle sweetness. These bite-sized creations set the tone: elegant rather than overwhelming, designed to be savored slowly. The sweeter selection continues with beautifully composed cakes and tarts, including the Entremets marbré de François Perret, a striking marble-patterned dessert that delivers depth, softness, and a perfectly controlled sweetness. Its visual elegance is matched by its flavor, comforting yet elevated.

Another standout is Le millefeuille de François Perret, a masterclass in texture. Crisp, impossibly thin layers of pastry alternate with silky cream, offering that rare millefeuille perfection where nothing slides, collapses, or overwhelms. Each bite is light, precise, and deeply satisfying, a reminder of why this dessert is so revered when done properly.

For guests choosing the “L’Impérial” experience, the tea is elevated further with a dessert selected from François Perret’s Bar Vendôme creations, paired with either a glass of Champagne Barons de Rothschild Réserve Ritz, a refined non-alcoholic “French Bloom”, or a thoughtfully crafted alcohol-free cocktail. The pairing enhances the ritual without overpowering it – allowing flavors, conversation, and atmosphere to flow effortlessly. This is not simply afternoon tea; it is a moment of composed luxury, where taste, design, and emotion align in perfect harmony.

Practical Tips for High Tea at the Ritz Paris

• Reservations: Recommended, especially during weekends and holiday seasons.
• Dress Code: Smart casual is ideal, as the Ritz embodies elegance.
• Location: Bar Vendôme is located within the Ritz at Place Vendôme, easily accessible by Metro lines.
• Pricing: High tea at the Ritz is a luxurious experience, so expect prices that reflect the exclusivity around €100.

Final Thoughts

Tea at the Ritz Paris was an afternoon filled with elegance, indulgence, and a touch of magic. From the rich history of Bar Vendôme to the exceptional creations by Chef François Perret, every element of the experience felt thoughtful, refined, and deeply Parisian. It’s the kind of moment where time slows, conversations soften, and you truly savor every sip and bite. If you’re looking to treat yourself to an iconic Parisian experience, high tea at the Ritz is one I wholeheartedly recommend.

Have you ever enjoyed afternoon tea in Paris, or is it on your dream list? I’d love to hear your favorite tea spots or Paris indulgences in the comments below.

Until next time, stay bubbly and keep exploring!
xoxo,
Bubbly 🍰