Fairmont Empress

I had the pleasure of experiencing Afternoon Tea at The Empress Hotel in Victoria and it was an absolute delight. With so many teas to choose from it was very helpful that our server, Will, explained the different taste characteristics. Having chosen our teas we experienced the ritual of brewing the leaves to exact perfection and we were very happy with our choices. The Empress Blend is definitely the "go to" blend. We could not fault the food - everything from the warm scones, the homemade jam and lemon curd, the finger sandwiches and the sweet treats - all were a taste explosion. If you only do one thing in Victoria then indulge in the Afternoon Tea at The Empress. You won't be disappointed.

Visiting Victoria with my daughter and mother. Had a wonderful afternoon enjoying High Tea at the Empress. Such a beautiful elegant hotel. High Tea was mom’s highlight because our Tea Sommelier server Raymond made her experience so wonderful.

Loyalty plan: one star. No upgrade for reservation #1 although I received email inviting me to pay for an upgrade. I’m Platinum level. It was a “city” view room, Gold Floor. I couldn’t see any city, but the view rhymed with city. Amenity: Five stars of five. Lovely cake and candies. Cleanliness; 5 stars. Quiet: 5 stars. Internet: one star. Got bucked out, even though I’m Platinum, every hour or so. Staff: 5 stars. Accounting: ZERO ! Please, take a picture of the expenses billed to the room. None of mine were correct. I asked for a copy and was told they didn’t know where the original, signed chits were. Where could they be?? It was the day before yesterday and yesterday. Is this an orchestrated rip off, or just pathetic bookkeeping? So review your portfolio and take pictures. Gold Floor food: 3.5 stars. Way better than Boston Copley two weeks ago. Fridge in room: Empty and ready for you! Coffee in room: Perfect Nespresso and cream in the fridge. They kicked us out of room #1, claiming no room although our maid in room #1 said it was available our final night. So we packed up and moved to #2, where we got a cute mini suite upgrade. At least I think it was commentary. Guess I should wait until the final bill, given the first reservation thievery.

Very underwhelming high tea after travelling 3K miles to visit the Grand Lady for HIGH TEA. A long time bucket list item. Servings were lackluster & the tiniest I’ve ever seen at High Teas. Even the scone! The desserts were more for looks. Just sweet, not tasty. After a bite we were all done. What happened to tea on tablecloths? Tea on bar tables? We were told there are other High Teas around Victoria. I’d say find one. The Spa treatment was 5⭐️ but facilities are so small so you don’t cant linger and relax. We were hoping to relax afterward but no seat available.

My review is about the restaurant as we did not stay at the hotel. The food and service was beyond excellent ... our server Bosko was fantastic, and his knowledge of fine wines is superior.