sean.blunk Afternoon tea, also known as the posh cousin of brunch, is a fancy-schmancy British tradition that’s been around since forever. One important thing to note before we dive in head first, there are a couple of different types of teas; High Tea & Afternoon Tea. It’s time to settle the score, folks – what’s the difference between the two? Is it just the time of day, or is there more to it? Let’s dive in and find out!
Afternoon Tea:
The Posh Cousin First up, we have afternoon tea – the fancy-pants cousin of brunch. It’s all about delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and dainty pastries. And let’s not forget about the tea – we’re talking Earl Grey, English Breakfast, and Darjeeling. It’s the perfect excuse to dress up, feel fancy, and indulge in some delicious treats. But be warned, if you don’t keep that pinky finger tucked in, you might as well go home.
High Tea:
The Working-Class Hero Next up, we have high tea – the meal that’s all about substance. It’s the working-class hero that’s served later in the day to fill you up after a long day at work. We’re talking meat pies, fish cakes, and other savory items, plus bread, butter, and jam. And of course, there’s tea, but there’s also alcohol involved – beer, sherry, you name it. High tea is all about getting your fill and taking the edge off after a hard day’s work.
The Showdown:
Afternoon Tea vs. High Tea So, which one is better? Well, that depends on your mood and your appetite. If you’re feeling fancy and want to indulge in some delicate treats, go for afternoon tea. But if you’re feeling hungry and need something more substantial, high tea is the way to go. It’s like choosing between a tiny cupcake or a big slice of pizza – both have their place in the world, and both are delicious in their own way.
The Afternoon Tea Menu
The food is the highlight of the experience, and it’s a three-course affair. First up, the savory sandwiches, usually filled with cucumber, salmon, or egg mayo. While my husband’s favorite is the Coronation Chicken (exclusively created for the Queen of England – he’s boujee like that), mine is the cucumber which is very light and refreshing.
Next, we have the scones, which are warm and come with clotted cream and jam – yum! If you are not familiar with clotted cream, don’t be turned off, it could be described as the “American version of butter”.
Finally, we get to the best part: cakes and pastries. These little bites of heaven are often delicate and sweet, like macarons or mini cakes.
And of course, we can’t forget about the tea – the most crucial element of afternoon tea. Pick from Earl Grey, English Breakfast, or Darjeeling, and don’t forget to keep that pinky finger tucked in (especially during British tea).
The Proper Etiquette
Afternoon tea can be a formal affair, and there are a few rules to follow. First, dress up – this is not the place for your favorite sweatpants. Second, sit up straight and don’t slouch – we don’t want you spilling your tea all over your lap. Third, use the right utensils for each course – don’t be that person trying to cut a scone with a knife meant for sandwiches. Finally, remember to lift your teacup with your pinky finger tucked in – it’s the ultimate symbol of class and sophistication.
Afternoon Tea Around the World
Did you know afternoon tea isn’t just a British thing? In the US, it’s called “high tea” and often features heartier dishes like quiches and salads – because ‘Murcia. In Japan, the tea ceremony is a highly ritualized event that involves the preparation and serving of matcha tea. And in Australia, they’ve put their spin on the expereience, and it often includes savory items like pies or sausage rolls. So, wherever you are in the world, there’s an afternoon tea for you.
Afternoon Tea Tips and Recommendations
If you want to indulge in some afternoon tea, make sure to book in advance and dress the part. Trust us; you don’t want to show up in your favorite sweatpants and be turned away. And if you’re looking for a gift for a tea lover, skip the boring old teapot and get them a tea-themed hamper or a subscription to a tea club. And remember, have fun, enjoy the food, and don’t forget to keep that pinky finger tucked in.
Top 5 Places for Tea in London
- The Ritz: The Ritz is a luxurious hotel in Piccadilly that offers a traditional afternoon tea experience in a grand setting. This is a tad swanky so be sure to check the dress code!
- Sketch: Sketch is a quirky tearoom in Mayfair that offers a unique take on the British tradition.
- Fortnum & Mason: Fortnum & Mason is a high-end department store in Piccadilly that has been serving afternoon tea since the 1700s.
- The Wolseley: The Wolseley is a grand European-style café in Piccadilly that offers a classic afternoon tea experience.
- Claridge’s: Claridge’s is a luxurious hotel in Mayfair that offers a traditional afternoon tea experience in an elegant setting.
As a family, we’ve made it a tradition that any time we are in London, afternoon tea is always scheduled for Fortnum & Mason.
Afternoon tea is the perfect excuse to dress up, feel fancy, and indulge in some delicious food. By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy experience without looking like a total buffoon.
if you are looking for some other things to do in London, check out this post A Tube-Guided Tour of London! So, go forth, sip tea, nibble on scones, and remember, keep that pinky finger tucked in. Cheers!
