For a more Continental way to celebrate Mother's Day, partake in afternoon tea, a ritual dating back centuries to pre-Brexit Britain. There are several places offering afternoon tea in town, and all of them recommend at least a 24-hour reservation (those finger sandwiches are a work of art and cannot be rushed). Set aside a couple of hours to fully enjoy this ceremony, which harkens back to a time of analog pleasures and parlor conversations. Mom will be pleased as punch.
The Waldorf Astoria
The Tea Lounge, located on the 23rd floor, offers an unparalleled view of the Strip in all its daytime glory. Scones come out warm and waiting for a dollop of Devonshire clotted cream, lemon curd or homemade jams, and with 22 loose leaf teas on the menu—from black to green and herbals— you’ll have a luxurious afternoon of catching up ahead of you. Daily, noon, 2 & 4 p.m., $48, 702-590-8888.
The Four Seasons
Afternoon tea at the Veranda restaurant is a low-key affair before the happy hour crowd rolls in. Tea sandwiches, scones and pastries are served in the traditional three-tier stand, so you can work your way up from the bottom, from savory to sweet. Seven kinds of teas are on offer, including the Silver Leaf, a delicate white tea that pairs well with everything. Monday-Friday, 3-4 p.m., $35, 702-632-5121.
Rí Rá
The Irish pub inside the Shoppes at Mandalay Bay offers two different tea experiences, the Dunbrody and the MacNean. Mismatched china adds to the charm as guests nosh on an assortment of finger sandwiches such as goat cheese and smoked salmon. Tea selections include traditional green, black and herbal teas, as well an assortment of florals. Daily, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., $24-$35, 702-632-7771.
