A colleague carrying a tray of tea to a table at The Rosebery tea room at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park

The best afternoon teas to book now

Dine
By Caroline Morrish
October 1, 2022

The ritual of afternoon tea started in Britain in the 1800s but has since been exported around the world. Here, we dive into some of the most delicious interpretations from across the continents for your delectation.


Afternoon tea is thought to have first become fashionable in the 1840s thanks to the Duchess of Bedford, who requested light refreshment each day at 4pm to bridge the gap between breakfast and dinner. The idea took off and it’s now regarded as a proud British tradition as well as finding its way on to menus in other parts of the world. We explore five of the most delicious examples from across the globe, from classic tea and scones to more contemporary reinventions of the format, all of which make for truly special dining occasions.
Episodes, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi

Regal Elegance - Episodes, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi

Immerse yourself in a new realm of sophistication at Episodes, nestled within the grand lobby of our Palace. Here, the art of dining is elevated with a curated selection of the finest teas from around the globe alongside an array of exquisite pastry creations and gourmet delights.

 

Whether you’re savouring a delicate macaron or indulging in one of our signature pastries, Episodes offers an unparalleled experience in an elegant setting. Enjoy your guilty pleasures amidst the opulent surroundings of our majestic lobby where each moment is as refined as the last.


The classic – The Rosebery, London

The classic – The Rosebery, London

The Rosebery at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London has a long tradition as a purveyor of fine teas, first opening its doors as a tea house in the 1920s.

 

Today the Knightsbridge destination, with its lofty ceilings, grand original features and exceptionally sourced tea selection, offers one of the most atmospheric afternoon teas in the city. The tea menu changes each season, with special blends created by the in-house Tea Master, and is accompanied by a food offering of elegant sandwiches and exquisite handmade pastries that take their flavours from around the world – all served suspended from a unique decorative tree.


Modern matcha – Lobby Lounge, Macau

Modern matcha – Lobby Lounge, Macau

Infused with the vivid colour and flavour of the distinctive green tea, the Matcha Lovers’ Afternoon Tea menu from the Lobby Lounge at Mandarin Oriental, Macau looks as enticing as it tastes.

 

Savoury dishes include chilled pea soup with green tea foam and green chicken curry with green tea sandwiches, while the sweet selection is equally verdant and creative, with soft green tea ganache with pistachio and matcha with cranberry scones, which comes with pots of zingy passionfruit and orange jam.


Tea to-go – MO Shop, Singapore

Tea to-go – MO Shop, Singapore

Bring the afternoon tea experience to your own door with the ready-to-order afternoon tea selection available through Shop MO at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore. The delectable menu has been created to serve a family of four (two adults and two children) and has lots of tasty morsels to keep everyone happy.

 

The selection of miniature sandwiches comes with crowd-pleasing fillings such as Gorgonzola, figs and turkey and lobster with red bell peppers and chilli mayonnaise, plus there are vanilla and parmesan and black truffle scones to follow, as well as plenty of cookies, pastries and chocolate pralines for younger guests to nibble on. Ordering 24 hours in advance is advised.


All offers and experiences available at time of publication. Please contact the hotel team for more information.


Caroline Morrish
About the Author
Caroline Morrish
Caroline is a food writer who has contributed to Michelin Guides, Great British Chefs and Supper Magazine.