The best afternoon teas to book now

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 lunch 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.

outdoor seating next to fountains at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi.

Fit for a royal – Café Fountain, Abu Dhabi

Taking the afternoon tea experience to regal heights, Café Fountain at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental offers luxurious dishes such as Canadian blue lobster brioche buns as well as tried-and-tested elements such as freshly baked scones, light salads and dinky pastries.

Pair them with a pot of fine tea – or a Saffron Golden Latte – on the terrace overlooking the lush green gardens and fountain of the Emirates Palace, with the Abu Dhabi skyline beyond.

The classic – The Rosebery, London

The Rosebery at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London has longstanding links with tea: in the 1920s, it was a fashionable tea-house, where high society gathered to gossip over pots of earl grey.

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 unique decorative trees.

afternoon tea displayed on a circular stand at Mandarin Oriental, Macau.

Sumptuous and seasonal – Lobby Lounge, Macau

The afternoon tea menu at the Lobby Lounge at Mandarin Oriental, Macau changes with the seasons, and looks as enticing as it tastes.

Its dainty savouries and cakes riff on local flavours, whether that means scallops with kombu and pickled cucumber, or a delicate pandan sponge, infused with hibiscus. Naturally, there are always freshly-baked, perfectly-risen scones, waiting to be slathered with clotted cream and passionfruit and raspberry jam.

tea being poured by a staff members at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore.

Deliciously indulgent – Lobby Lounge, Singapore

Every afternoon, tea is served in the calm, cocooning Lobby Lounge at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore. The menu changes every quarter but is always a polished proposition, running from tiny crustless sandwiches to extravagant cakes, whether it’s a layered rambutan delice or the pastry-chef’s take on banoffee. Just save room for a scone or two – spiked with Tahitian vanilla, perhaps, or a hint of basil-citrus. Looking for even more indulgence? Order the extra-special tea that comes with caviar and Louis Roederer champagne.

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

About the Author

Caroline Morrish

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