Last week we were invited to sample Afternoon Tea aboard Fingal. For those who don’t know Fingal was once a lighthouse tender, helping to maintain lighthouses and transporting their keepers, equipment and supplies to some of the most treacherous locations in Scotland. However, with many years of planning and hard-work the ship has been carefully transformed into a beautiful unique luxury floating hotel, exclusive use venue and a superb bar and restaurant.
The Lighthouse Restaurant and Bar serves breakfast for hotel guests, Afternoon Tea and delicious dinner options. It is also a great place to enjoy a leisurely afternoon, or evening, sipping away cocktails (with a nautical twist!) or a glass of champagne on the deck taking in the views across the Port of Leith.
The Art-deco interiors, rich colour scheme, floor to ceiling windows and well-presented team nurture a relaxed yet luxurious ambience. On warm days, the doors out to the deck are open, inviting guests to move freely and take a breath of fresh air – which also adds to the laid-back vibe.
Upon arrival, we were shown to our table which was formally set ready for our Afternoon Tea experience. Our waitress was very cheerful and showed us the extensive drinks menu, asking whether we’d like to enjoy a drink before Afternoon Tea was served. We decided to opt for the Champagne Afternoon Tea (choice is Rose or Brut) and as the sun was shining we took our fizz onto the deck and enjoyed the views before returning to our table for the seasonal amuse-bouche; which on our visit was Potato and Truffle. It was absolutely delicious! And the flavour of the truffle really stole the show.
We then selected our tea from the menu and agreed for this to be served with the sweet part of the Afternoon Tea.
The dishes are presented on a rectangle three-tier serving tray, in keeping with the design and interiors of the ship. Although it was clear from the menu the team kindly explained each of the items and we were left to enjoy the first ‘course’ at our leisure.
Savoury delicacies included; Truffled leek quiche with aged Parmesan, Heritage tomato arancini and Prosciutto ham, pesto, rocket leaves sandwiches.
When we’d finished this our tea was served and the second (and my favourite!) round was presented.
Sweet treats included; Valrhona double chocolate macaron, Lemon meringue tart and scones with Tiptree preserves and Rodda’s clotted cream.
Tea: There is a good, and not overwhelming, choice of Pekoe Tea including an exclusive Fingal blend, Earl Grey blend with Scottish heather, premium Chai Black, Jasmine Dragon Pearl and Peppermint – to name a few. I chose the Sencha Kura Green which was delicate, fruity and slightly sweet.
I sometimes find that with Afternoon Tea, there are too many sweet treats and not enough substance which means I am often still hungry shortly afterwards. However, the savoury dishes presented with the Fingal Afternoon Tea had both flavour and substance and I almost struggled (which is unlike me given my hugely sweet tooth) to finish all the sweet dishes. Of course, I did manage to polish them all off and I am so pleased I did as they were all delectable. I would seriously struggle to pick my favourite dish.
It was my first time at a restaurant since lockdown restrictions have been lifted and I must compliment the entire team on how well they have implemented their Covid health and safety procedures. They have struck the perfect balance between ensuring that safety is foremost, guests feel comfortable yet the whole experience still feeling ‘normal’.
I would highly recommend the Fingal Afternoon Tea experience for anyone looking for a special treat with friends or a romantic afternoon out.
Contact Details
A: Alexandra Dock, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 7DX
