Afternoon tea is the perfect time to break the day up, and recharge and refuel with friends and loved ones.
The concept of afternoon tea originated in the 19th century, after Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, England, started feeling hungry before dinner. To curb the hunger, the Duchess started having a pot of tea and light snacks in the evening, and the concept was popularised after inviting friends over.
As the UAE is home to so many amazing places where people can explore their tastebuds, there are ample places that serve a decadent afternoon tea to enjoy.
If looking for some spots to visit, Connector has listed ten to try.
The Royal Tearoom
The Royal Tearoom at Atlantis The Royal serves two unique afternoon tea experiences. Running daily 2pm to 5pm, the first choice of Emirati afternoon tea serves a variety of delicious Arabic treats including luqaimat, khanfaroosh and halawet el jibn, for prices set at Dhs 440 for two people. The second option is the signature afternoon tea which includes smoked turkey with black truffle, chocolate and almond cake, and candy tomato tart. Prices are set at Dhs 560 for two people.
www.atlantis.com
At.mosphere
Running daily from 12.30pm to 4.30pm, At.mosphere at Burj Khalifa, is a great spot to enjoy afternoon tea with a view. Situated on Level 122 of the tallest building in the world, take in the scenic views of Dubai, and tuck into a range of dishes including finger sandwiches, pastries and English scones, along with three glasses of drinks. Prices start at Dhs 350 per person.
www.atmosphereburjkhalifa.com
Mosaico Lounge
Mosaico at Palazzo Versace, Al Jaddaf, is a brilliant place to enjoy luxury afternoon tea. Running daily from 10.30am to 7pm, the high tea serves a variety of decadent bites including fruit, finger sandwiches, plain scones with jam, clotted cream and lemon curd and pastries, and Dammann Frères tea to wash it down. Prices are set at Dhs 360 for two people.
www.palazzoversace.ae
Sidra Lounge
Looking for a lovely afternoon tea with a scenic view? Sidra Lounge at Habtoor Palace Dubai, is serving a perfect midday break daily from 3pm to 6pm, where visitors can delight in a selection of blended tea options, finger sandwiches and pastries. While sipping on tea and nibbling on the food, marvel at the lovely green gardens of the hotel. Prices start at Dhs 190 per person.
www.alhabtoorcity.com
Bijou Patisserie
Bijou Patisserie at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, Umm Hurair 2, offers people a unique afternoon tea to tantalise the tastebuds. Running daily from 2pm to 6pm, the popular Le Goûter afternoon tea serves a French twist to the traditional English afternoon tea, where guests need to unlock a jewellery box to enjoy a variety of light bites including finger sandwiches and pastries, served with coffee and tea. Prices start at Dhs 175 per person.
www.sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.com
Al Bayt
Delight in a brilliant afternoon tea at Al Bayt at Palace Downtown, Downtown Dubai. Running daily from 2pm to 6pm, relish in Arabic-inspired light bites from pastries and finger sandwiches, served with choices of tea and coffee. Prices start at Dhs 190.
www.addresshotels.com
Sahn Eddar
Nothing says luxury more than an afternoon tea at Sahn Eddar at Burj Al Arab. The restaurant at the 7-star hotel is decorated with mosaics and marble floors, and serves a one-of-a-kind afternoon tea, running daily from 3pm to 6pm. Guests can savour in bites including toasted king crab brioche, millefeuille and sweet and savoury tarts. Delight in the magnificent view of Jumeirah beachfront, while making the most of the afternoon tea. Prices start at Dhs 490 per person.
www.jumeirah.com
Observatory Bar and Grill
Take in the marvellous views of Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina, while enjoying a lovely afternoon tea at Observatory Bar and Grill at Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel and Suites, Dubai Marina. Delight in delicious savoury and sweet treats from pastries to finger sandwiches. Prices start at Dhs 120 per person.
www.marriott.com
Aspen
Aspen at Kempinski Mall of the Emirates, is serving a royal afternoon tea, to take the tastebuds on a delicious journey. Running daily from 1pm to 7pm, relish in savoury and sweet bites including smoked salmon, asparagus roll, hazelnut chocolate fudge and coffee pudding. Prices are set at Dhs 190 per person.
www.kempinski.com
The Farm Restaurant
Looking for a place to enjoy a decadent afternoon tea, with lush green views? The Farm Restaurant in Al Barari is the place to check out. Running daily from 3.30pm to 6pm, savour in finger sandwiches, scones and pastries, made with local produce. The venue transports visitors away from city life to a nature-inspired environment, with views of trees and a stunning lake. Prices are set at Dhs 294 for two people.
www.thefarmdubai.ae