Get the Par-Tea Started With These Five Awesome Afternoon Teas
“There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.” Henry James.
Afternoon tea is a Great British institution and something everyone – born-and-bred Brit or tourist – should try at least once. Whether you’re after traditional, boozy, or just a little different, here’s our pick of some of the best.
1) The Tipsy Tea – Mr Fogg’s Gin Parlour
Let’s face it, everything’s a bit better when booze is involved. And why should afternoon tea be any different? Above the ‘Tavern of eccentric British adventurer, Phileas J. Fogg, Esq’, escape to the quieter (but just as kitsch!) Gin Parlour & Salon. Forget Earl Grey and opt for a decadent gin ‘tea’ (aka cocktail in a teapot) to wash down your sandwiches, cakes and sweet treats. There’ll be a mini gin tasting too!
2) The Posh Tea – The Ritz
We couldn’t do an afternoon tea roundup without including the quintessential British afternoon tea: The Ritz. Perfect for a special occasion, put on your glad rags as the world-famous venue has a strict dress code: definitely no jeans or trainers. Accompanied by live music performances (piano and harp), you’ll sip on loose-leaf tea and nibble on delicate finger sandwiches, fresh scones and an array of cakes and pastries.
3) The Chocola-Tea – One Aldwych
You don’t need a golden ticket to enjoy this mouthwatering ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ afternoon tea. Inspired by the Roald Dahl classic, this themed tea serves up ‘Golden Eggs’, Blueberry Brioche and Flavoured Candy Floss among other sweet treats: perfect for families – or chocoholics! But, be warned, this scrumdiddlyumptious tea is very popular (especially on weekends) so book well in advance!
4) The Quirky Tea – Sanderson London
You’d be crazy to miss this ‘Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea’, which was created to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Alice in Wonderland. As Instagram-worthy as it is delicious, the crockery is illustrated with familiar characters from the story, you’ll find menus hidden inside vintage books and will be spoiled with intriguing delicacies including The Blue Caterpillar, Wonderland’s Magic Marshmallow Mushrooms and, of course, Alice’s Drink Me Potion. Don’t be late for this very important date!
5) The Oriental Tea – Grand Imperial London
This Asian-inspired experience is a must for dim sum lovers – or those who just want to mix it up and try something different. Rather than English Breakfast Tea, try the refreshing Jasmine King Tea and, instead of Cucumber Sandwiches, you’ll be offered a tower of authentic dim sum delights: Vegetarian Spring Rolls, Steamed Scallop & Asparagus Dumplings, Crispy Aromatic Duck Salad, Oven-Baked Egg Tarts – and more!