The good old fashioned afternoon tea has enjoyed something of a renaissance over the last few years, and many cafes and restaurants are now getting on board with the trend. But why has afternoon tea become such a popular dining option in recent years? Many believe it's due to its retro appeal, the popularity of vintage fashion and nostalgia for the past.
The quintessential image of an afternoon tea
Whatever the reason, one thing is sure - serving up a sumptuous afternoon tea is one way to keep enticing people through the door. Whether you offer a traditional spread of homemade scones, finger sandwiches, bite sized cakes and tea, or dish up an alternative selection, remember home baking beats the pre-packaged cakes served up in big chain coffee shops any day.
Most afternoon teas are served on a classic three-tier cake stand, an impressive arrangement that offers a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
History of the afternoon tea
Apparently the custom of taking afternoon tea can be traced back to the 18th century when Anna Russell, the Duchess of Bedford and dear friend of Queen Victoria, liked to perk herself up in the afternoon with a cup of tea and a snack shared with friends. Nowadays afternoon tea is the perfect way to perk up after a long day in the shops!
Legend has it the Duchess favoured Darjeeling for her afternoon tea cuppa, but today you'll find an endless number of variants on the traditional afternoon tea…
Afternoon tea today: from the traditional to the unique
Traditionally afternoon tea is served with a cup of tea - anything from breakfast tea to Lady Grey - but some establishments are adding a touch of luxury to their offering, with the addition of a glass of champagne or two.
A classic afternoon tea usually consists of finger sandwiches with posh fillings, such as egg and cress, smoked salmon or cucumber, and typically British cakes like Victoria sponge, fruit cake, strawberry tarts or scones with clotted cream.
However some hotels and restaurants are truly stepping out of the box by offering afternoon tea with a twist. Grab yourself a slice of the action by:
- Replacing cakes and scones with colourful jellies, homemade marshmallows and cake pops.
- Give bread a makeover with saffron, spinach and beetroot added for flavour and colour.
- Throw out the three-tier stand and replace with a more modern looking two-tier cake stand.
- Move aside the genteel cuppa in favour of a fabulous complementary cocktail.
Do you serve afternoon tea?
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