Is there any more British an indulgence than afternoon cake and tea? We aren’t sure, but we do know that Edinburgh knows how to do Afternoon Tea as well as the best of them! Whether you like innovation and creativity or are an afternoon tea traditionalist, our favourites list hits all the right spots.
Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian – Van Gogh Afternoon Tea
An exclusive Afternoon Tea experience is available at the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian throughout until 13th April 2022. The Afternoon Tea has been inspired by the Van Gogh Alive exhibition, which is running at nearby Festival Square. The menu has been inspired by the renowned artist himself and some of his most famous paintings. Highlights from the Afternoon Tea showcase some of the renowned artist’s most famous works and includes delicacies such as the Artist Palette, a traditional Dutch butter cake; the Sunflowers, a burnt white chocolate, pear and sunflower seed open macaron; and the Almond Blossom, an almond frangipane with almond blossom, apricot and orange blossom compote. The menu also boasts a selection of savoury sandwiches, including a Crispy Duck, Rocket, Cucumber & Coriander Wrap and a Red Pepper & Black Olive Tartelette; as well as a selection of Buttermilk and Citrus Peel Scones. Gluten-free, vegan and children’s menus are also available.
The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant – Traditional Afternoon Tea
What better way to enjoy a leisurely afternoon. Enjoy dainty handmade finger sandwiches, delicate homemade fruit and savoury scones followed by chef’s daily selection of sweet treats. Served with your choice of tea from our extensive selection whilst overlooking our uninterrupted view of the magnificent Princes Street Gardens. The perfect afternoon treat. £25 per person Served daily from 3pm.
www.contini.com/scottish-cafe-and-restaurant
Cannonball House – Traditional Afternoon Tea
Indulge in their traditional Scottish Afternoon tea, served in our cosy bar. Mouthwatering finger sandwiches with seasonal fillings, delicate scones with Scottish smoked salmon and delicious petit fours, all made in house by our team of pastry chefs. Choose your own loose leaf tea at the table from our beautiful Scottish selection. The perfect afternoon treat. £25 per person. Served from 12noon to 4pm.
Palm Court at The Balmoral Hotel – The Balmoral Afternoon Tea
An institution when it comes to the art of afternoon tea. The décor alone is enough to tempt you into The Palm Court – as expected of a 5-star hotel, no expense has been spared in this opulent Venetian style room, complete with palm trees and chandeliers. Once you are over the initial awe, the culinary delights of an award-winning Afternoon Tea are fabulous too. We love this one for treating those you love to a special day out!
The Colonnades at Signet Library – Finest Afternoon Tea
For something extra special, The Colonnades at the Signet Library offers the wow-factor. Located just off the bustling Royal Mile, this impressive room is lined with tall Corinthian columns and surrounded by a balcony gallery resplendent with lovingly restored neo-classical balustrades. The Signet Library serves a fine Afternoon Tea with a highly extensive list of teas to choose from. However, don’t worry if you can’t decide – guests are served unlimited tea and coffee so try them all! Graduation, Birthday or Anniversary, or just because you can this one is great for those special occasions.
