From Concept to Cup: Meet the Team Behind The Garden View Lounge Tea Experience.
Recently, we had the opportunity to enjoy the Garden View Lounge Tea Experience at the beautiful Grand Floridian Resort. From start to finish, it’s a wonderful experience, one that’s surely not to be missed. As you can imagine, a lot of work and planning must go into something so special for guests, and Disney Parks gave readers some additional insight. Meet Amber, one of the creative minds behind this whimsical experience.
Amber has been involved in the project since the early planning stages in 2023. Back then, it was just an idea being developed, but the goal was always clear. They wanted to reintroduce something guests loved while making it feel new and elevated at the same time.
She said guests constantly asked about the tea room and when it would return. That kind of excitement created pressure, but in the best possible way. It was a reminder of how meaningful this experience has been for so many people over the years, and it helped push the team forward.
Building a Deeper Understanding of Tea
Amber already had an impressive background in beverages, with sommelier and cicerone certifications earned with Disney’s support. But this project gave her the chance to take things even further.
Working closely with the beverage team, she partnered with the experts at Twinings to carefully develop the tea selection for the experience. Together, they chose eight blends that would define the menu.
She described the process as intense but rewarding. From learning about water temperature and steeping times to selecting the right teaware and refining tasting techniques, every detail mattered. The training sessions were long, but the goal was simple. Deliver the best possible experience for every guest.
The final menu reflects that effort. Guests can enjoy traditional teas along with herbal options and lighter refreshing choices that work for all ages.
One standout is the Orangery of Lady Grey, a blend you will not find anywhere else in the United States. It offers a bright citrus twist layered over the familiar notes of bergamot, making it both classic and unique at the same time.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Setting
The tea service has been reimagined with inspiration drawn from Alice in Wonderland. It’s absolutely quaint and beautiful. We found it to be quite immersive. Themed displays and carefully thought out details create a sense of stepping into a story book with the feel of a traditional tea service.
Amber pointed out that even returning guests will notice the difference right away. This is not just a reopening. It is a completely refreshed experience with creative touches that make it feel brand new.
The food is a big part of that transformation. Chefs Michelle and Ally designed a visually striking tower filled with both sweet and savory selections that look just as impressive as they taste.
Amber’s personal favorite is the Caterpillar Cucumber Roll. It features pumpernickel bread with a vibrant cream cheese infused with butterfly pea tea, topped with fresh cucumber. It is light, colorful, and fits perfectly with the garden inspired feel of the experience.
Bringing back this tea service has been a long time coming, but it is clear that every detail has been carefully considered. For guests who have been waiting, and for those experiencing it for the first time, this is one of those moments where Disney takes something familiar and makes it feel special all over again.
For us, Michele will be giving give you our start to finish complete review of the new tea experience. Stay tuned for that, you definitely won’t want to miss the “tea” on this one!
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