Marcus Hotels Press

04.21.26

The Pfister Hotel Expands Celebrated Afternoon Tea Service to Meet Growing Demand

 

Guests can now experience Afternoon Tea seven days a week along with curated seasonal events and educational classes  

Milwaukee, April 21, 2026 – Afternoon Tea service is now available every day of the week at The Pfister Hotel, a historic AAA Four Diamond hotel owned and managed by Marcus® Hotels & Resorts. The Milwaukee icon of prestige, history and timeless elegance expanded its renowned Afternoon Tea program to meet growing demand and offer special experiences for every generation. The year-round service is held inside Blu, the hotel’s lounge on the 23rd floor, which boasts breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Milwaukee and Lake Michigan. 

For over 40 years, The Pfister has offered Afternoon Tea service that celebrates this classic tradition that has been often lost in today’s modern culture. As consumers increasingly seek authentic, in-person experiences, interest has surged with seatings frequently reaching capacity well in advance. In response, the hotel has grown the service from a four-day schedule to seven days a week, allowing locals and visitors to indulge at their leisure. 

“The Pfister’s Afternoon Tea is a one-of-a-kind Milwaukee tradition. It is so rewarding to see elements of our storied history live on as new guests and long-time tea connoisseurs enjoy this space,” said Brandon Drusch, managing director and general manager of The Pfister Hotel. “Due to its popularity, we are thrilled to now offer Afternoon Tea every day of the week, alongside other seasonal experiences and events. Whether you are here with family or friends, every Afternoon Tea creates a lasting memory.” 

Reminiscent of the 19th century, The Pfister’s Afternoon Tea service resembles a traditional English tea experience. As guests are seated, they are welcomed by a tea butler, who visits each table with a gueridon service trolley and provides in-depth guidance on tea and its origins, as well as table-side blending options. Guests then learn how tea can affect mood and health and are offered tealeaf samples to appreciate the distinct aromas of each variety. The experience rounds out with a sampling of seasonal scones, sandwiches, and pastries to enjoy while sipping. 

To further elevate the experience, the hotel will now offer specialty holiday tea services year-round. The exclusive events, tied to major holidays, will feature festive decor and seasonal menus, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere as they sip and snack high above the city.  

Recently, the hotel has also successfully debuted themed events and classes to educate and entertain guests, including lively Afternoon Tea experiences and tea etiquette classes in partnership with The Etiquette School of Chicago.  

 Upcoming seasonal events and classes include: 

  • Halloween Tea – Saturday, October 31 | 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM 
  • Holiday Tea – December 12 – 31 | 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM 

Daily seatings are available from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Reservations are required and can be made online. Pricing begins at $68 per adult, with a special children’s price and menu also available. For further questions and booking assistance, please call 414-935-5950 or email m1res@marcuscorp.com.  

To learn more about Afternoon Tea at The Pfister Hotel, please visit www.thepfisterhotel.com/afternoontea.  

About The Pfister Hotel 
Celebrating over 130 years, The Pfister Hotel is one of the oldest and most prestigious hotels in the Midwest and downtown Milwaukee. Originally opened in 1893 by businessman Guido Pfister, it was the most lavish hotel of its time. Today, The Pfister Hotel continues its tradition of gracious service and impeccable style and has been recognized by AAA as a Four Diamond property for over 45 consecutive years. The hotel is also consistently recognized by top national industry and travel publications and associations, such as Condé Nast Traveler’s annual Reader’s Choice Awards as a Top Hotel in the Midwest. This exceptional property is a member of two distinguished hotel organizations, Historic Hotels of America, and Preferred Hotels & Resorts. For more information, please visit thepfisterhotel.com and follow the hotel on Facebook and Instagram (@thepfisterhotel).  

 

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts
Marcus Hotels & Resorts own and/or manage 17 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning. This includes unique food and beverage concepts, developed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, such as Mason Street Grill®, The Studio Kitchen & Cocktails, Milwaukee ChopHouse®, Miller Time® Pub & Grill, and SafeHouse® Restaurant. For more information, please visit: http://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.