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Afternoon Tea's Timeless Elegance Revived in Luxury Hotels Worldwide

From classic scones to global tea blends, afternoon tea's charm endures in luxury settings, providing a timeless experience that transcends generations and cultures.

This is a picture of a hotel. In the foreground of the picture there are couches, pillows, chairs,...
This is a picture of a hotel. In the foreground of the picture there are couches, pillows, chairs, tables, flower vases and flowers. On the left there are windows, curtains and lamps. On the right, there are windows, curtains and lamps. In the center of the background there are light and a frame. At the top there is a mirror, there are lights in the ceiling.

Afternoon Tea's Timeless Elegance Revived in Luxury Hotels Worldwide

Afternoon tea, once a staple of British society, is making a comeback in upscale hotels and tea rooms worldwide. Nearly three-quarters of Americans now prefer coffee daily, but the charm of afternoon tea persists, offering a moment of elegance and tradition.

The ritual of afternoon tea originated in the 17th century, introduced to England by Queen Catherine of Braganza. It evolved into a significant social gathering by the Victorian era, reflecting wealth and status through elaborate silver sets and imported teas. Today, luxury hotels like Claridge's and The Plaza Hotel continue this tradition, offering creative menus and refined fare. Classic pairings include scones with clotted cream, finger sandwiches, and petit fours.

Upton Tea Imports is among those preserving the ritual's heart while inviting new audiences. They highlight global tea diversity, from rich oolongs to unique global blends. Meanwhile, traditional tea ceremonies are being revived in upscale hotels and vintage tea rooms, led by individual tea masters, luxury brands, and boutique companies. These initiatives bring the elegance of afternoon tea into the modern world, offering a moment of refinement amidst busy lives.

Despite the rise of coffee, afternoon tea endures, thriving in luxury settings with modern twists. It continues to shape gatherings, conversations, and even fashion, as it has since the 17th century. From classic pairings to global teas, afternoon tea offers a timeless experience that transcends generations and cultures.

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