USA / California / San Francisco / The gold standard / 2012 / The Palace Hotel / The menu is stellar and the setting stupendous; it doesn't get much better than a weekend high tea with friends at The Palace Hotel's Garden Court. Served from 1-2:30 on Saturdays, be sure to book a table and prepare to revel in a tier of miniature fruit tarts, gold-leaf dusted chocolate eclairs, shortbread cookies with edible gold sparkle, freshly baked scones dotted with currants, clotted cream, rose petal jelly and Meyer lemon curd, elegant open-faced sandwiches, a generous cheese platter, an eclectic mix of loose leaf teas and of course, Champagne. A pianist tickles the keys ever so lightly and you are transported to a bygone era of decadence and leisure. Not a detail is missed during this delightful experience. This tea is one of the most artfully prepared in the world and it begs diners to slow down, sip, nibble, and enjoy a special afternoon. When the clock strikes 4 pm, find a comfy spot for a nap and just pray you don't turn into a pumpkin! © Leela Cyd Ross / Anzenberger