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Tea is a popular beverage in the world and with it has come many a meal traditions. High tea and afternoon tea are two such practices that revolve around tea, and it is common for individuals to get somewhat confused between the two. While most characteristics with regards to the two are somewhat similar, there are certain factors that make them unique in their own right.
What Is Afternoon Tea?
Afternoon tea, also known as 'low tea,' is what most people think of when they hear 'high tea.' It involves things like manners, lace, and dainty foods. It is typically served in the mid-afternoon and it was traditionally served on low tables, hence its two names.
An afternoon tea menu is light and focuses on scones, finger sandwiches. Marmalade, lemon curds, and herbed butter may also be included. Favorite teas for afternoon tea include black teas like Earl Grey and Assam as well as herbal teas like chamomile and mint.
What is High Tea?
High tea, a working class English meal that gained popularity during 1600s, is typically eaten around 5 PM and 6 PM, sometimes serving as a substitute for afternoon tea and the evening meal. The term ‘high tea’ comes from the meal being consumed from the main dining table or a “high” table as opposed to the smaller lounge (low) table usually utilized for serving tea.
Also, often called meat tea, high tea is a heavy meal consisting of dishes such as steak and kidney pie, baked goods such as crumpets or, in Ireland, barm brack, fish dishes such as pickled salmon, vegetables such as onion cakes or potatoes and other heavy foods such as cheesy casseroles and baked beans. While cold meats, fish and eggs, cakes and sandwiches are integral to the meal, pastries, fruits, cookies and other delicacies too are served. However, overtime, this meal has become replaced by a more substantial meal later on in the day and is no longer a daily standard.
Swaye Tea will now offer Afternoon Tea and High Tea on a regular basis.
Afternoon Tea is available Tuesday thru Saturday 11 am to 4 pm. You and a few friends can come in an enjoy hot tea along with some delicously made finger foods and treats.
You can also reserve a table for High Tea/Brunch, join us every Sunday for fine dining and jazz from 11 am to 4 pm.
Reservations are required, to book click here.
