Afternoon Tea
The Mirror Room at Rosewood London is known for its luxurious and sophisticated Afternoon Tea experience, featuring a selection of finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a range of exquisitely crafted pastries. Different versions of Afternoon Tea are available.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Afternoon Tea originated in Britain in the 1840s, attributed to Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford. She found the long gap between lunch and dinner unsatisfying and began requesting a tray of tea, bread and butter, and cake to be brought to her room in the late afternoon. This became a habit, and she started inviting friends to join her. The tradition quickly spread among the upper classes.
Afternoon Tea is deeply ingrained in British culture, representing refinement, leisure, and social connection.
Social Occasion
Traditionally, Afternoon Tea is a social event, an opportunity to gather with friends and family for conversation and connection. It is often seen as a more relaxed alternative to formal dinners.
Etiquette
Specific etiquette surrounds Afternoon Tea, including the proper way to stir tea (back and forth, not in circles), the order in which to eat the food (sandwiches first, then scones, then pastries), and how to handle silverware.
Symbol of Status
Historically, Afternoon Tea was associated with the upper classes and served as a symbol of status and refinement. While now enjoyed by a wider audience, it still carries a certain sense of occasion and elegance.
Modern Interpretations
While traditional Afternoon Tea remains popular, many establishments now offer modern interpretations with updated menus, themed events, and variations on classic recipes.
Afternoon Tea presents a delicate balance of savory and sweet, with a focus on light, fresh flavors and textures.
The flavors range from the buttery, savory notes of finger sandwiches filled with cucumber, smoked salmon, or egg mayonnaise, to the richer, slightly tangy clotted cream paired with sweet fruit preserves atop warm scones. Pastries and cakes introduce a diverse array of flavors, from light and airy sponge cakes to decadent chocolate confections, often complemented by fruit fillings, citrus zest, or delicate floral notes. The teas themselves contribute significantly, offering varieties from light and floral Earl Grey to robust and malty Assam, cleansing the palate and enhancing the other flavors.
Start Savory
Begin with the finger sandwiches to cleanse your palate before indulging in the sweeter elements.
Scone Strategy
Warm your scone slightly (if possible) and spread clotted cream first, followed by jam, rather than vice-versa (though personal preference prevails!).
Tea Selection
Inquire about the tea selection and choose a variety that complements the food. Light teas pair well with sandwiches and scones, while stronger teas can stand up to richer pastries.
Pace Yourself
Afternoon Tea is meant to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Savor each bite and allow ample time for conversation and relaxation.
Dress Appropriately
While not always required, dressing smartly can enhance the overall experience, especially at more formal establishments.
Explore additional Afternoon Tea dishes and restaurants
Explore Afternoon TeaDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in London.
Explore LondonLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of UK.
Explore UK