Whether traditional or high, make time for the refreshing ritual of afternoon tea. Here are some of the best spots in Dubai for the most exquisite, authentic tea.
At.Mosphere Lounge
At.mosphere Lounge
This is high tea in every sense of the word. Take your seat in the lounge of the world’s highest restaurant (122 floors up), in the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and sip your tea (and a glass of bubby for official ‘high tea’) as you gaze at the cityscape below. There is organic baked quiche, finger sandwiches, gold-flecked pastries and even Beluga caviar and oysters. It doesn’t get more ‘high’ than this. www.atmosphereburjkhalifa.com
Al Fayrooz Lounge
Al Fayrooz Lounge
Sink into colonial-style armchairs and take in the stunning views to the Burj Al Arab and sparkling waterways of the Madinat Jumeirah at this beautifully elegant afternoon tea. Sipping tea and devouring limitless sandwiches, dainty patisseries and scones with a live pianist tinkling away in the background is simply divine. www.jumeirah.com
Choix Patisserie and Restaurant
Choix Patisserie
For afternoon tea with a French twist, the chic Choix Patisserie, the brainchild of the three Michelin starred chef Pierre Gagnaire, is bursting with Parisian flair and flavour. The 3-tiered medley of delights includes finger sandwiches, scones and the highlight, a stunning selection of patisseries. The choice of teas, juices and coffee is equally impressive. www.intercontinental.com
Fortnum & Mason
Fortnum & Mason
It is hard to decide what steals the show at this traditional afternoon tea… The handy proximity to the Dubai Mall and stunning views of the Burj Khalifa, their famous and delicious blend of teas, the sophisticated and iconic F&M interiors or the epic buttery and crumbly scones complete with clotted cream and your choice of Fortnum & Mason homemade preserve? www.fortnumandmason.ae
The Lobby Lounge
The Lobby Lounge
Afternoon tea at the Ritz is steeped in tradition and even though you are in Dubai, the institution is equally as authentic and elegant as it is in London. Opt for a simple scone, clotted cream and jam overload with the Devonshire cream tea, or the classic afternoon tea complete with all the trimmings, including mini salmon sandwiches, delicious tarts and sweet treats galore. A live harpist adds that final touch of sophistication. www.ritzcarlton.com
Al Bayt
Al Bayt
For an Arabic take on the traditional afternoon tea, the stunning Arabian-style Palace hotel in Downtown Dubai. The Address offers an Arabic option, as well as its classic afternoon tea. Sandwiches are of the shawarma and kofta varieties, while the scones are infused with saffron and cardamom and traditional Arabic sweets and treats make up the sweet offerings. www.theaddress.com