The Driskill Hotel is celebrating their 125th anniversary this month with the 12 Days of Driskill. Victorian Holiday Teas, Breakfasts with Santa and other special events are happening at the hotel all month long.
Last week Bill and I walked over for their tree lighting and community celebration. I loved The Driskill’s tree last December, but this year’s tree is even more spectactular! The theme is “History of The Driskill” and historical tidbits are hidden in the branches. For example: Lady Bird and Lyndon Johnson had their first date at The Driskill (and I’ve read that they watched election returns there too).
Bill and I talked to Executive Pastry Chef, Tony Sansalone, who was standing watch over an elaborate birthday cake next to the tree. He told us that he used the same cake recipe that was used for the opening of The Driskill on December 20, 1886. We were impressed to learn that Chef Sansalone created this cake in just one day. He decided not to cut the decorated version but made enough sheet cake for 300 servings. I am not a chocolate fan, but Bill said the cake was delicious (and so this left 298 servings for other people besides Bill).
Unfortunately we were distracted by the elegant decorations throughout the hotel and forgot to check out the trucked-in snow at the entrance on Brazos Street. But perhaps Austin will have real snow again this winter?
