Afternoon Tea Inspiration

Looking for some Afternoon Tea inspiration? Look no further than some of the world’s best hotels and restaurants for the latest flavours and next-level presentation.

Sit back, relax and indulge

There’s something special about hosting an afternoon tea at home. Serving delicate finger sandwiches, fluffy scones, irresistible cakes, and sweet and savoury treats is a wonderful experience. These are all enjoyed with the people who make me laugh and smile. What’s not to love?

Well as much as I adore hosting, I also love indulging in a meticulously prepared Afternoon Tea at a five-star hotel or renowned restaurant. It’s more than just a luxurious treat. It’s a chance to discover new flavours, admire creative presentation, and draw culinary inspiration from the experts.

Plus there’s something a bit glamorous about dressing up and ‘going out’ for Afternoon Tea. The elegant settings, impeccable service, and innovative menus create an experience to be savoured. It’s a journey back to a more refined era.

Iconic venues like Claridge’s in London have been serving Afternoon Tea for well over 150 years. This proves that, even in our fast-paced, tech-driven world, this wonderful tradition remains as beloved as ever.

From traditional to modern, Afternoon Tea has a way of reinventing itself

At the end of this post are some of my favourite Afternoon Tea venues, each offering a truly special experience. Many follow the traditional sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats pattern. However, you’re sure to be inspired by the fresh takes on old favourites. Check out Coronation Chicken with Apricot & Coriander or Monte Rosso Doughnut with Pickled Walnut & Celery that feature on the menu at Mount Lofty House Estate in the Adelaide Hills. (In case you’re wondering, Monte Rosso is a cheese inspired by Italian Taleggio). It’s an exciting time for Afternoon Tea as it looks for the perfect balance between traditional and modern offerings!

Read my review of the Hyatt Canberra High Tea for some great insight and photos of what’s popular right now.

Themed afternoon teas are also popular thanks to Downton Abbey and Bridgerton. These give hotel pastry chefs a chance to show off their creativity. They develop new takes on sweet treats to fit the theme. Visually stunning and featuring heavily on social media, they give the diner an opportunity to savour deliciousness and show off the beauty to followers.

For stylish Afternoon Tea inspiration with plenty of Instagramable moments, look no further than The Berkeley in London. Their themed offerings provide a huge dose of inspiration. Their Mar-tea-ni experience—served during cocktail hour—elevates tradition. It features Scones Topped with Caviar, Pistachio Ice Cream Lollipops, plus three bespoke miniature martinis.

If themes are not your thing, then take a leaf (pun intended) out of Japan’s book. Be inspired by the seasons. In Tokyo, seasonal afternoon teas are a true art form. They blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with luxury patisserie techniques. Many high-end hotels and tea salons craft exclusive menus inspired by the changing seasons. They incorporate fresh, locally sourced ingredients and beautifully plated treats.

For example, January and February are the perfect time to indulge in a Strawberry Afternoon Tea. It features beautifully crafted pastries and desserts made with Japan’s finest seasonal strawberries. From March to April, during the Cherry Blossom Season, many venues, including The Peninsula Tokyo, The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, and Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, offer Sakura-themed afternoon teas. These showcase exquisite cherry blossom-inspired sweets and delicate pink-hued treats.

These inspiring seasonal menus capture the essence of Japan’s changing landscapes, making afternoon tea a truly special experience.

Stay ahead of the curve

Even if a visit isn’t on the horizon, exploring the websites and menus of the world’s top establishments can be a fantastic source of Afternoon Tea inspiration. Whether you’re planning your next Afternoon Tea at home, considering a future visit, or simply dreaming of indulging one day.

Just like fashion, trends in food and hospitality are constantly evolving. Flavours that were popular a few years ago may no longer appear on menus. The world’s top hotels are trendsetters, shaping what’s in and out in the world of Afternoon Tea. Depending on your entertaining goals, their menus and websites offer a wealth of ideas and inspiration. They help you stay ahead of the curve.