We see quite a few restaurants, particularly hotels, offering teas. Some refer to this as a high tea, others refer to it more appropriately as afternoon tea. Let’s discuss.
Tea time is a quintessentially British tradition that has woven its way into the fabric of global culture. But there’s a bit of confusion around the terms “high tea” and “afternoon tea.” Let’s clear that up with a delightful sip of wit and a dash of charm, shall we?
Afternoon Tea: A Light, Lavish Affair
Afternoon tea is the epitome of elegance, often served in the most refined settings imaginable. Picture yourself in a sunlit parlor, surrounded by delicate china, freshly cut flowers, and perhaps a string quartet playing softly in the background. This tradition was born in the early 19th century, thanks to Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, who couldn’t quite make it from lunch to dinner without a little something in between. And what a “little something” it became!
Afternoon tea is typically served between 3:30 and 5 PM and consists of an array of finger sandwiches (crusts off, of course), scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of pastries and cakes. The tea itself is the star of the show, with selections ranging from classic Earl Grey to more exotic blends. Afternoon tea is a leisurely affair, meant for socializing, catching up on the latest gossip, and indulging in a sweet respite from the day.
High Tea: A Hearty, Wholesome Meal
Now, let’s talk about high tea—often mistaken as the posh counterpart to afternoon tea, when in fact, it’s quite the opposite. High tea is the working-class hero of the tea world. Originating during the Industrial Revolution, it was the evening meal for the laborers returning home from a hard day’s work.
Served between 5 and 7 PM, high tea is more substantial, often including savory pies, cold meats, cheese, bread, butter, and pickles. You might also find baked beans, boiled eggs, or a hearty stew on the table. And yes, there’s tea, but it’s more of a companion to the meal rather than the centerpiece. High tea was traditionally enjoyed at the family’s high dining table (hence the name), offering a practical and filling end to the day.
The Final Word
In essence, afternoon tea is the light, refined affair you’d expect in a Jane Austen novel, while high tea is the sturdy, satisfying meal that would make Dickens’ characters feel right at home. So, the next time you’re invited for tea, you’ll know whether to expect a dainty treat or a hearty meal—both delightful, but very different.
