Claremont Lobby - Berkeley

Claremont, you have gone downhill. We’ve enjoyed your regular tea and Holiday tea many times but this year is very disappointing. The menu sounded promising but the execution was mediocre. The tea sandwiches were just ok but unimpressive. The sweets were not special. I did like my jasmine tea. Our server was very friendly and personable but low staffing did not allow her to be more attentive. Live music was sad. The pianist played her songs but may have missed more than a few notes. Absolutely no holiday ambiance. Definitely did not feel this experience is worth $135 per person this time around. I really want to continue to love this place but this experience was more than underwhelming. Will I be back? Yes, but Claremont has to up its game.

Holiday tea service was outstanding. Service was impeccable.

I had attempted to increase my reservation from 4 to 6 for two weeks, and it was very frustrating to see a table next to us for six that was empty the entire time we were there. When I called to even add one seat at our table, it was denied. I also am unhappy that I had to pay for valet and parking – doesn’t seem right when I paid what I did for tea and valet. On a bright note, our service team was great. 

We came for holiday tea and were very disappointed. Ambiance and service were very good, but the tea and pastries sandwiches really were sub-par — too sweet, dry, weird flavors. We live in an area w great food on every corner, and the quality esp at the price point just wasn’t worth it. Also our tea pot was dirty w what the waiter said was caked on coffee on the exterior of the spot and he didn’t understand why we would want a clean pot. We have been going to the Claremont Hotel for special occasions since 2008 when we moved to the neighborhood but are unlikely to go back.

I'm so glad to see the return of the Claremont's holiday tea! Service is still great: hot water was refilled quickly, dietary preferences were noted and followed up, and the restaurant was able to move me to a slightly later time when I got stuck in traffic. All in all, a class holiday experience that I'm glad to see return! I just wish they offered afternoon tea year round.