Father’s Day is around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to celebrate the love that dads shower upon their families. This year, instead of the usual gift, why not treat your dad to an indulgent afternoon tea experience? After all, what better way to express your love than over a warm cup of tea and delicious delicacies?
Before we dive into the details of the perfect afternoon tea experience, let’s take a quick look at the history of this British tradition. Afternoon tea originated in the 1800s as a way for the noble class to fill the gap between lunch and dinner. It soon became a popular social event, where women would invite their friends over for tea and conversation. Today, afternoon tea is a quintessential part of British culture and has gained popularity across the globe as a symbol of refined indulgence.
The perfect afternoon tea experience includes a variety of carefully curated sweet and savoury treats, accompanied by a rich and flavourful tea selection. Here’s how you can create the ideal afternoon tea for your dad this Father’s Day:
No afternoon tea is complete without a selection of teas to choose from. Opt for high-quality loose-leaf tea, which is fresher and tastier than tea bags. Offer a variety of tea options, including black, green, herbal, and fruit, so that your dad can choose his favourite. For a unique touch, you can create a blend of teas that your dad might enjoy based on his preferences. Don’t forget to serve the tea piping hot and in beautiful teacups for the ultimate tea experience.
The sandwich selection is a crucial part of any afternoon tea. Keep the selection simple yet flavourful, with classic fillings like cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon and cream cheese, and egg mayonnaise. Opt for fresh, soft bread, and cut the sandwiches into delicate finger-sized portions. Ensure that the fillings are fresh, flavourful, and beautifully presented on a tiered afternoon tea stand.
Scones are a staple of British afternoon tea. Serve freshly baked scones, accompanied by a selection of jams and clotted cream. Don’t forget to warm the scones before serving, as this enhances the flavour and texture. For a unique twist, you can add dried fruits or chocolate chips to the scone mix.
Afternoon tea is a perfect excuse to indulge in decadent cakes and pastries. Opt for a mix of sweet treats, including classic favourites like Victoria sponge, lemon drizzle cake, and chocolate cake. Add some exotic touches like macarons, petit fours, and éclairs to add some variety to the selection. Ensure that the cakes look as good as they taste, with beautiful decorations and presentation.
While tea is the star of the show, it’s essential to offer other beverage options as well. Include sparkling water, fresh juices, and a selection of wines and champagnes to provide a well-rounded experience. Opt for non-alcoholic options as well, so that everyone can indulge in their preferred beverage.
Apart from being an ideal way to celebrate Father’s Day, afternoon tea has several benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should indulge in afternoon tea more often:
Afternoon tea is a perfect way to unwind and relax. It’s an ideal opportunity to disconnect from the outside world, catch up with loved ones, and enjoy the present moment.
Tea is filled with antioxidants, which help protect the body against damage from free radicals. It’s also a perfect way to stay hydrated and boost digestion.
Afternoon tea is a quintessential part of British culture, and indulging in it is a great way to experience the traditions and customs of another culture.
Afternoon tea is a perfect excuse to spend quality time with friends and family, catch up on life, and create lasting memories.
This Father’s Day, celebrate your dad’s love by indulging in a sumptuous afternoon tea experience. It’s the perfect way to treat him to a relaxing, indulgent, and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re hosting a tea party at home or treating your dad to a luxury afternoon tea experience at a swanky hotel, make sure to create the perfect blend of sweet treats, savoury sandwiches, and a variety of teas for the ultimate experience. So raise your teacup and cheers to dads everywhere!
