Tea at The Tennessean // Knoxville

When you think of the ultimate night way or weekend getaway, you usually think big, right? For Tennesseans, it is usually Blackberry Farm, Blackberry Mountain, Nashville or even a quick trip to shop in New York. Knoxville is not usually one of the first places as a Chattanoogan to come to mind, but let me tell you, I have a new spot for you. I was invited to stay at The Tennessean in the heart of Knoxville and felt very spoiled. The hotel makes you feel like you are in a much larger city with all the wonderful touches. One thing I always notice first are the toiletries, and The Tennessean has Molten Brown, my all time favorite when staying away from home. I have to say, the fitness center easily competes with any luxury hotel, and the bed linens are straight from Europe, and you can tell the minute you slip into bed.

Aside from the fact The Tennessean is just steps away from tons of Knoxville nightlife, if you are more like me when it starts to get chilly at night and want to stay in but still have a yummy dinner, The Drawing Room is amazing. On my visit last week, I ate at The Drawing Room and had a wonderful meal. I started with the small cheese plate to share with my mom, who I invited to go with me, and then had the shaved brussel sprouts salad topped with yummy salmon. The best part of the meal was the seasonal cocktail our waitress recommended, the pomegranate martini. As you can tell, I cannot say enough good things about this hotel and for it to only be an hour and 45 minutes away from Chattanooga, I just cannot wait to go back!

The Tennessean now offers a luxurious tea service at special times during the year. I was lucky enough to be invited to the holiday tea service and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. I love a good tea service and have been to lots, including The Langham in London, The Plaza in New York and Palm Court at the Drake in Chicago among many more, and the tea service at The Tennessean rivals any of these. The Drawing Room is cozy, which I like, and something about the experience makes you feel like you’re a celebrity having tea, in Tennessee. A local high school harpist plays holiday music at each of the Christmas teas, which is a special touch. I cannot say enough good things about the tea service at The Tennessean and can’t wait to take the girls back to experience the mix of sweet and savory items the tea has to offer. My favorite of the indulgences were the hand iced snowflake cookies on the top tier of treats at tea. If you want to go to the Christmas tea this season, be sure to book in advance, as it is booking up quickly. You can book through eventbrite here. Dates offered are December 4, 11, 18, & 24. This charming southern luxury is not one to be missed!