MILWAUKEE, September 5, 2019 – The AAA-Four Diamond Pfister Hotel’s beloved afternoon tea experience has been a cherished tradition for many guests and locals alike in Milwaukee, Wis. for over 35 years. Now, guests can enjoy another season beginning September 6, 2019 through May 3, 2020.

Reminiscent of the 19th century, The Pfister’s afternoon tea offers an elegant experience perfect for friends and families looking to enjoy a traditional English afternoon in Milwaukee’s most luxurious hotel. The over 125-year old hotel has stood as an icon of prestige, history and timeless elegance, continuing to host some of the world’s most honored dignitaries. The Pfister is known for housing the largest Victorian art collection of any hotel in the world, its renowned Artist-in-Residence program and its celebration of exceptional hospitality to all who walk through its doors.

The afternoon tea experience at The Pfister Hotel is unlike that of any other hotel. Complete with tradition, elegance and history, below are five reasons why all visitors and locals should engage in this popular tradition:

• The Pfister Hotel Tea Butler: Guests will be serviced by the hotel’s own Tea Butler, Juan Rodriguez, who has been the hotel’s tea butler for over three decades. During each seating, the Tea Butler will visit each table with a gueridon service trolley to explain the tea and origins of tea being offered, discuss table side blending options and educate guests on ways tea can affect mood and health. He will also offer tealeaf samples to guests so they may appreciate the distinctive aromas of each variety.
• A Lovely Presentation: Tea is delivered in a classic, all-silver service, including a replica of an 18th century self-tipping teapot with a tealight to keep it warm. To ensure that individual tea varieties are brewed to the correct temperature, individual brewing units are used for the different styles of teas.
• The Pfister Hotel’s Own Signature Blend: The Pfister Hotel is proud to offer a fine selection of Rishi Teas in 12 varieties with countless variations of flavors, including its signature blend, Pfister 1893. Exclusively crafted in 2013 in conjunction with Milwaukee-based Rishi Tea, Pfister 1893 features a blend of jasmine and wild rose-scented white teas infused with rejuvenating peppermint and calming lavender.
• Traditional Sandwiches, Delicious Scones and Savory Finger Foods: Executive Chef Brian Frakes creates a special menu for nibbling on dainty English finger foods. The “Victorian” menu includes cucumber sandwiches with dill Chantilly, herb roasted turkey crepes with red onion marmalade, Scottish smoked salmon served with dill cream and black bread, fresh mini scones, raspberry milk chocolate tarts and fresh macarons. Young ladies and gentleman can enjoy an “All Grown Up” menu featuring warm sipping chocolate, herbed chicken salad tartlets and Vermont ham and cheddar finger sandwiches. Fine selections of Veuve Cliquot or Veuve Cliquot Rose are also available.
• A View Fit for a Queen: This elegant tea tradition is located in Blu, on the 23rd floor of the hotel, which offers the finest panoramic views of the city’s skyline to complete the lavish high tea experience. Additionally, a pianist and cozy crackling fireplace set the stage for a delightful afternoon experience on a cool autumn or snowy winter day.

“We are delighted to bring back this timeless tradition for families and friends. Not only is The Pfister’s afternoon tea a special experience for all, but it creates lifelong memories that many cherish year after year. For those looking for a respite during the busy upcoming holiday season, or an engaging activity to enjoy with both young and older generations, we encourage everyone to give our high tea experience a try,” said Tim Smith, general manager of The Pfister Hotel.

Seatings are available Friday – Sunday at 12:30 p.m., 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. September 6, 2019 – May 3, 2020. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (414) 935-5950 or through the website. Also, new this year, the afternoon high tea experience is now available for groups and private parties seating up to 30 people. Group reservations can be reserved by contacting Brenda Simonis at (414) 298-3120 or at brendasimonis@thepfisterhotel.com.

Please visit The Pfister Afternoon Tea for more information on menu selections and pricing.

“As an immigrant, travel lover, business owner, lawyer-turned-artist and storyteller, I identify with The Pfister’s history as a hotel built by immigrants living the American Dream,” said Roongta. “I believe strongly in the power of human connection and am guided by my conviction that it is in each other’s stories that we find the beauty of the human spirit. I can think of no better way to continue this work than to capture and share the stories of The Pfister Hotel’s guests and visitors.”

During her residency, Roongta will host a bi-monthly “Chai at The Pfister” series, the first of which will be May 28, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. These events will encourage guests and locals, alike, to enjoy a cup of chai and pause for a moment to sit, rest and share stories. Every other week she will also apply henna in the lobby, as well as journaling workshops and henna classes for those interested in learning more about this Ancient East Indian art form.

Roongta, who is based in Milwaukee, is a published author and has been recognized extensively for her literary and arts work. She was the 2018-2019 Milwaukee Artist Resource Network (MARN) spoken word mentee, and in 2016, she received a Special Recognition Governor’s Trailblazer Award for Women in Business for innovation and success. Her book ‘…fill in the beauty, a book for the storyteller and artist in all of us,’ captures original drawings and stories that invite readers to read, draw and reflect.

Prior to focusing on storytelling and art, Roongta was the director of courthouse advocacy for the Task Force on Family Violence, now the Sojourner Family Peace Center. She also served on the boards of Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin, the Tamarack Waldorf School and DIDI, a community organization that provides culturally specific advocacy for victims of family violence. She continues to use this expertise as a volunteer attorney at the Milwaukee Justice Center. She received her juris doctorate from the University of Iowa College of Law in Iowa City, Iowa, as well as a bachelor’s degree in sociology and philosophy from Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa.

The Pfister Narrator is selected each year from a pool of applicants by a review panel consisting of local writers, editors and hotel representatives. Suresh Roongta succeeds Anna Lardinois, who served as the 11^th Pfister Narrator.

More information about The Pfister Hotel’s Narrator-in-Residence program can be found at www.ThePfisterHotel.com/Pfister-Narrator. For more information on the latest news and updates from Marcus Hotels & Resorts, please visit: http://media.marcushotels.com.

About The Pfister Hotel

At more than 125 years old, 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. The hotel’s storied elegance had faded following World War II, until 1962, when Ben Marcus, founder of The Marcus Corporation, purchased this grand hotel out of bankruptcy. The Marcus Corporation renovated and restored the hotel to its original glory, adding convention facilities, a parking garage and 23-story guest tower. The Pfister Hotel is home to the largest collection of Victorian art of any hotel in the world as well as an award-winning Artist-in-Residence program.

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 42 consecutive years. In 2018, The Pfister was recognized as a Top Hotel in the Midwest in Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious annual Reader’s Choice Awards for the second consecutive year and was ranked the No. 1 Best Milwaukee Hotel by U.S. News & World Report in 2019. This exceptional property is a member of two prestigious hotel organizations, Historic Hotels of America and Preferred Hotels & Resorts. The Pfister Hotel is located at 424 E. Wisconsin Ave. in downtown Milwaukee. For more information, please visit www.thepfisterhotel.com and follow the hotel on Facebook and Twitter (@PfisterHotel).

Read the full article on the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

“I am honored to be chosen as The Pfister’s next Artist in Residence. As a woman of color, I find creating art is one of the few areas in life where I can freely name, embrace, and honor my own identity. During this residency, I will work to celebrate diverse backgrounds and examine the complex nature of human life and relationships,” said Petri. “I will be transforming my studio into a collaborative and interactive experience and inviting other creators to work with me to explore the ‘myths of creation’ surrounding art and artists. As the 11th Artist in Residence, following in the footsteps of a decade’s worth of incredible artists, I cannot wait to share my unique perspective and, hopefully, help demystify the process of creating art and culture with the hotel’s many guests and visitors.”

Through her various mediums, including fabric portraiture, quilt-making, photography and mixed media, Petri showcases her passion for social justice, art and storytelling. She is most well-known for her series of quilt portraits of famous American musicians that pay homage to the country’s diverse history of music. Petri currently exhibits her work at the David Barnett Gallery and 5 Points Art Gallery and Studios in Milwaukee. She is also the owner of Milwaukee-based Paradise Home Goods, where she sells heirloom quilts, handsewn accessories, dresses and skirts, as well as candles and body butters. Petri has been recognized locally for her work, including being named a Milwaukee Artist Resource Network (MARN) mentee in 2018 and recognized with an artist award at the 2018 Bronzeville Cultural and Arts Festival.

During her residency, Petri plans to create a salon and studio space that will highlight guests and other creators through portraiture and podcasts. Using her diverse talents, she will develop a collection of photograph and fabric portraits, as well as audio interviews to share individuals’ perspectives on the theme of “myths of creation.” More information about Petri’s work can be found at https://www.thisisparadisehome.com/.

“For more than a decade, The Pfister Hotel’s Artist-in-Residence program has helped transform guests and visitors’ experiences at the hotel, as well as supported Milwaukee’s vibrant arts community. We are proud to continue showcasing our city’s talented painters, photographers, designers and others who are among the best in the region,” said Tim Smith, general manager of The Pfister Hotel. “Rosy’s focus on the creative process and her diverse talent across numerous disciplines will create a new voice for the program, and we are all excited to see her in action.”

Stephanie Schultz Finale Fashion Show, March 15
To celebrate the conclusion of her year-long residency as the 10th Artist-in-Residence at The Pfister Hotel, local fashion designer, Stephanie Schultz will host a finale fashion show on March 15, 2019 in the hotel’s Imperial Ballroom. Schultz spent the last year working on a collection of high-fashion and couture wear inspired by the hotel’s Victorian Art collection. This collection will be featured during the evening’s show, which starts promptly at 7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 6:45 p.m. Guests can also participate in a “Best Dressed” contest and enjoy a post-show reception. General admission tickets are free (VIP front row seats are already sold out). For more information about the show, please visit the Facebook event.

For more information on the latest news and updates from Marcus Hotels & Resorts, please visit: http://media.marcushotels.com.

About The Pfister’s Artist-in-Residence Program
Entering its 11th year, The Pfister’s Artist-in-Residence program features a working art studio and gallery that is open to hotel guests and visitors. The program encourages the public to interact with the artist and witness the evolution of each piece first-hand.

Over the years, The Pfister has received national attention for its Artist-in-Residence program. Since 2009, the hotel has been a member of the Alliance of Artist Communities, www.artistcommunities.org, an international association of artists’ communities and residencies featuring a diverse field of more than 1,000 programs worldwide. Additionally, The Pfister’s program has inspired similar residencies at two other Marcus Hotels & Resorts properties: The Skirvin Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City and the Lincoln Marriot Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln, Neb.

The program’s most recent artist is Stephanie Schultz (2018-2019), https://www.silversark.com/. Past artists include Margaret Muza (2017-2018), www.margaretmuza.com; Pamela Anderson (2016-2017), www.pamelaandersonstudio.com; Todd Mrozinski (2015-2016), toddmrozinski.com; Niki Johnson (2014-2015), www.nikijohnson.com; Stephanie Barenz (2013-2014), stephaniebarenz.com; Timothy Westbrook (2012-2013), www.unicorns.carbonmade.com; Shelby Keefe (2011-2012), www.studioshelby.com; Katie Musolff (2010-2011), www.katiemusolff.com; and Reginald Baylor (2009-2010), www.reginaldbaylor.com.
About The Pfister Hotel
At more than 125 years old, 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. The hotel’s storied elegance had faded following World War II, until 1962, when Ben Marcus, founder of The Marcus Corporation, purchased this grand hotel out of bankruptcy. The Marcus Corporation renovated and restored the hotel to its original glory, adding convention facilities, a parking garage and 23-story guest tower. The Pfister Hotel is home to the largest collection of Victorian art of any hotel in the world as well as an award-winning Artist-in-Residence program.
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 42 consecutive years. In 2018, The Pfister was recognized as a Top Hotel in the Midwest in Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious annual Reader’s Choice Awards for the second consecutive year and was ranked the No. 1 Best Milwaukee Hotel by U.S. News & World Report in 2019. This exceptional property is a member of two prestigious hotel organizations, Historic Hotels of America and Preferred Hotels & Resorts. The Pfister Hotel is located at 424 E. Wisconsin Ave. in downtown Milwaukee. For more information, please visit www.thepfisterhotel.com and follow the hotel on Facebook and Twitter (@PfisterHotel).

Read the full list of top 2019 destinations on TripSavvy.

MILWAUKEE, October 23, 2018… Christmas trees, twinkling lights and festive feasts will soon arrive at the AAA Four-Diamond Pfister Hotel, AAA Four-Diamond Hilton Milwaukee City Center and InterContinental Milwaukee, bringing treasured holiday traditions back to town. Locals and visitors alike can look for a mix of classic holiday celebrations, as well as new, fun and energizing occasions to toast to the holiday season!

Top Three “Must Do” Holiday Events to Make 2018 a Holiday to Remember:

• The Pfister Hotel’s Annual Tree Lighting Event – Friday, November 23, 2018 from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. (official lighting at 5:30 p.m.)
  • The Pfister Hotel is celebrating its 125^th anniversary in 2018, and its annual tree lighting ceremony is one of Milwaukee’s most celebrated and anticipated traditions. Featuring an 18-foot, LED-lighted holiday tree, the festive event includes complimentary holiday treats, music, hot cocoa and more. Parents are invited to bring their cameras, as Santa and Mrs. Claus will be arriving at 5:20 p.m. on a Milwaukee Fire Department fire truck to greet guests and pose for photos. Guests are encouraged to write letters to Santa and drop them in Santa’s special mailbox, which he will take back with him to the North Pole. While the actual tree lighting ceremony takes place at 5:30 p.m., the other activities extend to 6:30 p.m. To support those in need during the holiday season, The Pfister Hotel will collect food for Hunger Task Force and encourages guests to bring non-perishable food items. This event is free and open to the public. Enjoy complimentary parking with any purchase.
• Pfister Holiday Marketplace – Saturday and Sunday, December 8 and 9, 2018 | 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Discover and connect with local artists and experience holiday fun and art in many forms. Hosted by talented artist Renee Bebeau, guests will enjoy festive music and fine art while shopping for the perfect gift for family and friends. Located on The Pfister Mezzanine, entry into the marketplace is free.
• Holiday Trivia at Monarch Lounge – December 5 and December 19, 2018 | Trivia begins at 6:30 p.m.
  • Put your holiday pop culture and history knowledge to the test during holiday trivia nights at Monarch Lounge in the Hilton Milwaukee City Center. Competitors will enjoy specialty holiday cocktails, as well as friendly competition for fun prizes and gift cards. If teams wear holiday-themed attire, they receive five bonus points!

In addition to these can’t-miss events, enjoy a wide variety of holiday dinners and brunches at all three Milwaukee Marcus Hotels & Resorts properties:

125 Years of Holiday Spirit at The Pfister

Milwaukee’s treasured 125-year-old hotel is pleased to present a number of memorable experiences and events to celebrate the spirit of the season. For more information on The Pfister’s holiday festivities, visit: www.thepfisterhotel.com/holidays.

Thanksgiving Bountiful Brunch at The Pfister

Thursday, November 22 | 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

The breathtaking atmosphere of The Pfister Hotel’s ballroom provides the perfect destination for a cherished Thanksgiving.  In a comfortable yet elegant setting, The Pfister Hotel’s beloved brunch provides ample holiday cheer. There is much to be thankful for, from appetizers and entrées, to side dishes and desserts – plus all the traditional trimmings.  Extend the holiday experience and stay the night Wednesday, November 21 or Thursday, November 22. Rates start at $109 per night, plus tax with the purchase of brunch.  For reservations, call 877.704.5340 or 414.935.5950.  Pricing: $68 Adults, $27 Children 3-10 years-old, 2 and under free (tax and gratuity are not included).  Credit card guarantee required. 48-hour cancellation notice required or full amount is charged.

 Breakfast with Santa

Saturdays and Sundays, December 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 and 23, 2018 | Two seatings will be available each date – 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Breakfast with Santa is a Pfister tradition that creates lifelong memories. Guests have the opportunity to share a jolly, plated breakfast with Santa and his elves in The Pfister’s festive ballroom. Smaller seatings for each date will ensure that everyone has an exceptional experience. In addition to photos with Santa, which are highly encouraged, every child will receive a special gift and will be able to write letters to Santa, while enjoying making other special holiday crafts. For reservations, call 877.704.5340 or 414.935.5950. Pricing: $48 Adults, $30 Children 3-10 years old, 2 and under free. Credit card guarantee required. 48-hour cancellation notice required or full amount is charged.

Mason Street Grill Christmas Carol Experience

Saturday, December 8 and 15, 2018 | 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.

Reserve your spot for a wonderful winter’s evening, enjoying dinner at Mason Street Grill followed by A Christmas Carol presented by the Milwaukee Repertory Theater. Complimentary parking in The Pfister structure and transportation to the show will be provided. A three-course prix-fixe menu will be available starting at 5:00 p.m. Guests can then take The Pfister’s shuttle to the Pabst Theater for the 7:30 p.m. showtime of A Christmas Carol. Last shuttle will leave at 7:00 p.m. For reservations, call 414.298.3131. Pricing: $125 per person; preferred orchestra seating for the show. (Tax and gratuity not included.)

Christmas Celebration Brunch

Tuesday, December 25, 2018 | 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Christmas brunch at The Pfister begins with a complimentary mimosa or Bloody Mary followed by a spectacular buffet featuring a delicious assortment of appetizers, salads, entrées and decadent desserts in the hotel’s elegant main ballroom. For reservations, call 877.704.5340 or 414.935.5950. Pricing: $68 Adults, $27 Children 3 – 10 years old, 2 and under free (tax and gratuity are not included). Credit card guarantee is required, and a 48-hour cancellation notice is required or full amount will be charged.

Special Holiday Room Promotions:

To truly enjoy a magical Pfister holiday experience, consider staying overnight and waking up on Christmas morning in luxury! On December 24 or 25, 2018, overnight rates start at $109 per night, plus tax, with the purchase of brunch. For reservations, call 877.704.5340 or 414.935.5950.

Holiday Traditions at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center

To learn more about the holiday events listed below, visit: www.hiltonmilwaukee.com/holiday. 

Wine Wednesdays at Milwaukee ChopHouse

Every Wednesday in December | Normal operating hours

Enjoy 50 percent-off bottles under $100 and 25 percent-off bottles $100 and up every Wednesday in December. 

Miller Time Pub & Grill Sweater Drive

Friday, December 7 to Sunday, December 9, 2018 | Normal operating hours

Miller Time Pub & Grill patrons can donate a lightly used or brand-new sweater to those in need this holiday season. For every sweater donated, patrons will receive a free Miller beer on tap (up to five).

Nightmare Before Christmas Party at Miller Time Pub & Grill

Friday, December 14, 2018 | 6:00 p.m. to close

Miller Time Pub & Grill celebrates the spookier side of Christmas during a “Nightmare Before Christmas” party. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy the classic movie on TVs throughout the pub, while enjoying themed cocktails. Costumes are highly encouraged.

 Celebrating the Holidays in Style at the InterContinental Milwaukee

To learn more about the holiday events listed below, visit: www.intercontinentalmilwaukee.com/holiday.

Thanksgiving Brunch and Dinner at Kil@Wat

Thursday, November 22 | Brunch from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Dinner from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Feast with family and friends at Kil@Wat’s incredible Thanksgiving brunch or four-course dinner. Bringing together traditional favorites and adventurous new creations, this will be a Thanksgiving to remember.  For reservations: Call 414.291.4793. Cost: $49 per person; $69 with wine pairings.

 Holiday Lights Kick-Off

Thursday, November 15 | 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

The holiday season starts with the annual downtown Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival. Following the tree lighting in Red Arrow Park, stop by and warm up with free hot cocoa and a selection of our house-made holiday cookies. Complimentary Hot Cocoa will be provided.

Glühwein & Sweets Special at CLEAR

Monday, December 24, 2018 | 4 p.m. – Close

Enjoy the hotel’s rustic recipe of Glühwein – a classic mulled beverage – and sample delectable desserts to satisfy your holiday sweet tooth.  Pricing: $7/glass for mulled wine and $10 for the dessert sampler.

 Christmas Eve Dinner at Kil@Wat

Monday, December 24, 2018 | 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Bring the family to Kil@Wat for a fantastic, five-course holiday feast on Christmas Eve. To add to the experience, the meal can be upgraded with a full wine pairing menu. For reservations, call 414.276.8686. Pricing: $69 per person or $94 with wine pairings.

Christmas Day Brunch at Kil@Wat

Tuesday, December 25, 2018 | 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Spend time with friends and family enjoying Kil@Wat’s spectacular Christmas brunch.

For reservations, call 414.276.8686. Pricing: Menu prices.

Marcus Hotels Holiday Gift Cards

Purchase $100 in Marcus gift cards and receive a $25 bonus gift card redeemable at any Marcus restaurant, spa hotel or theatre. Purchase today at: http://www.marcusgiftcards.com/

Read more about its efforts in The Hospitality Experience

https://www.pbs.org/video/exceptional-and-original-bjfn2z/

Read the release here ( PDF )

More info: https://www.historichotels.org/ceilings.php