Photo: Unsplash
While tea-drinking in the mid 17th century was popularized by Charles II of England, it wasn’t until the rise of Anna Russell, the Duchess of Bedford in the late 19th century that the concept of afternoon tea was conceived. Intended as something of a filler to satiate hunger pangs between lunch and dinner, afternoon tea gained popularity throughout the Edwardian era before becoming a widespread phenomenon practiced across not only the United Kingdom, but in countries such as Australia, India, and indeed, the UAE. A chance to show off their best china and table linen, hotels, and restaurants across the world have now become popular meeting grounds for afternoon tea aficionados, with offerings including a well-curated combination of decadence and flair.
Ahead of International Tea Day ( May 21), we take a look at some of Dubai‘s best afternoon tea spots, guaranteed to leave your pinky fingers raised and appetites satiated.
Tania’s Teahouse
View this post on Instagram
Awarded the 7th most Instagrammable café in the world, this Dubai-based teahouse is what afternoon-tea dreams are made of. Located on Jumeirah Beach Road, not too far from the glorious Burj Al Arab, the café’s afternoon tea menu comprises two options; the Jumeirah Jane Platter, aptly named after the locals of the area, and Her Majes-tea’s Favorite. With each option accompanied by a 3-tiered tea platter for two, in addition to a cup of coffee or tea, guests can help themselves to a wide array of canapes, pastries, and desserts. Not to mention the custom-blended tea, all of which comes in a regular, latte, or iced form. Tania’s Teahouse; Open Sunday to Saturday, 9am-8pm.
The Hamptons Café
View this post on Instagram
A well-known favorite amongst afternoon-tea enthusiasts in Dubai, The Hampton‘s High Tea is a culinary experience of exceptional proportion. With their suite of homemade scones and pastries, freshly baked each day, the offering includes a plethora of loose-leaf tea, in addition to savory and sweet delights. Guests can enjoy classics such as buttermilk scones served with an array of accompaniments, or delve into more daring territory with items such as the lavender eclair, praline mille-feuille, and hummingbird cupcake. With savory treats aplenty, guests can also help themselves to options such as the air-dried Spanish beef, and parmesan crostini.
The Hampton’s Cafe; Open Saturday to Wednesday, 8am-11pm; Thursday to Friday 8am-1am.
At.mosphere at the Burj Khalifa
View this post on Instagram
A unique experience located at the highest restaurant & lounge in the world, the At.mosphere High Tea effortlessly combines timeless charm with sophisticated modernity. Providing patrons with the option to choose between two menus; the Luxurious Menu, and La Gourmandizes, the restaurant uses a combination of declinations, main courses, and patisseries, all of which are as favorable to the palette as they are to the eyes.
At.mosphere at the Burj Khalifa; Open daily, 12pm-4pm.
Al Fayrooz Lounge at Jumeirah Al Qasr
View this post on Instagram
Set amid the arabesque pillars and serene waterways of Dubai’s iconic Jumeirah Al Qasr, afternoon tea at Al Fayrooz Lounge is something of an unforgettable experience. Boasting three options; the Al Qasr Afternoon Tea, Royal Afternoon Tea, and Hendrick’s Afternoon Tea, the menu comprises a selection of sandwiches, homemade scones, and an assortment of petit fours. Guests are also welcome to choose from a selection of bubbly, or a delectable offering of teas and coffees.
Al Fayrooz Lounge at Jumeirah Al Qasr; Open daily, 2pm-6pm.
Read Next:
