The Best Places for High Tea in Edinburgh
Edinburgh, a city known for its historical charm and cultural richness, also boasts a vibrant culinary scene. One of the delightful traditions that locals and visitors alike enjoy is high tea. This quintessentially British pastime offers a perfect excuse to indulge in a leisurely afternoon, sipping tea and savoring an assortment of delicate treats. Join us as we explore the best places in Edinburgh to experience high tea, a journey that will take you from elegant hotels to cozy tea rooms, all offering their unique spin on this time-honored tradition.
Exploring Edinburgh's High Tea Scene
High tea in Edinburgh is not just about drinking tea; it's an experience that involves exquisite pastries, sumptuous sandwiches, and a touch of local flair. The city offers a mix of traditional and modern venues, each providing a unique atmosphere and menu. Let’s explore what makes high tea in Edinburgh a must-try experience.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
While traditional high tea remains popular, Edinburgh's establishments have infused innovation into their offerings. You'll find creative takes on classic dishes, the incorporation of local ingredients, and even themed high teas.
Signature Elements of High Tea
A typical high tea in Edinburgh includes a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of pastries. Some venues offer additional treats like meringues, macarons, and tarts.
Top Picks for High Tea in Edinburgh
The Balmoral Hotel
Overview
The Balmoral Hotel is an iconic establishment known for its luxurious setting. Located on Princes Street, it boasts a prestigious reputation, making it a top choice for an elegant high tea experience.
Why It Stands Out
- Ambiance: The Palm Court at The Balmoral offers a sophisticated and serene environment with its ornate décor and harpist playing in the background.
- Menu Highlights: Enjoy classic finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and a selection of pastries that rival the best in the UK. Their tea selection is both extensive and expertly curated.
- Special Features: The hotel often features themed high teas, offering a twist on traditional offerings, such as seasonal or literary-themed afternoon teas.
The Signet Library
Overview
Nestled within the grandeur of the Signet Library on the Royal Mile, this venue provides a truly unique high tea experience in an opulent setting.
Why It Stands Out
- Ambiance: The historical setting with high ceilings and grand columns offers a majestic backdrop for tea time.
- Menu Highlights: The high tea includes an indulgent array of savory and sweet delights, beautifully presented to match the elegance of the location.
- Special Features: The Signet Library offers a rare balance of refinement and comfort, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Eteaket Tea Room
Overview
Located on Frederick Street, Eteaket Tea Room is known for its relaxed vibe and artisanal approach to high tea.
Why It Stands Out
- Ambiance: A charming tea room atmosphere that is both cozy and inviting, making it a popular spot for locals.
- Menu Highlights: Eteaket emphasizes tea pairings, with an impressive selection of loose leaf teas alongside their classic high tea offerings.
- Special Features: Known for its innovative and contemporary tea blends, Eteaket provides a modern twist to the traditional high tea setting.
The Dome
Overview
Situated on George Street, The Dome is famous for its stunning Georgian architecture and opulent interiors, making it a memorable location for high tea.
Why It Stands Out
- Ambiance: With its magnificent glass dome and palm trees, the setting is both grand and inviting.
- Menu Highlights: The tea menu features a variety of traditional sandwiches, cakes, and freshly baked scones accompanied by rich clotted cream.
- Special Features: The Christmas decorations are particularly noteworthy, attracting visitors worldwide to enjoy high tea in a festive atmosphere.
Colonnades at the Signet Library
Overview
Another gem within the Signet Library, the Colonnades offers a luxurious afternoon tea steeped in tradition and elegance.
Why It Stands Out
- Ambiance: A plush and intimate setting makes it perfect for a quieter high tea experience.
- Menu Highlights: With delicacies like duck egg brioche and rare roast beef, this is a place where high tea is elevated to an art form.
- Special Features: The fine details, from bespoke chinaware to attentive service, ensure a memorable afternoon.
Crafting Your Own High Tea Experience
How to Choose the Perfect Spot
When selecting a venue for high tea in Edinburgh, consider the following:
- Ambiance: Do you prefer a grandiose setting or a cozy, intimate space?
- Menu Offerings: Are you interested in traditional fare, or do you seek creative, contemporary tweaks?
- Special Features: Look for seasonal themes, live music, or unique tea selections.
Making a Reservation
Given the popularity of high tea in Edinburgh, booking in advance is recommended, especially for the more renowned venues like The Balmoral and The Signet Library.
Dress Code and Etiquette
While some places maintain a more formal dress code, others like Eteaket welcome casual attire. It's always best to check ahead to avoid surprises.
The Local Angle: Edinburgh's Tea Heritage
Edinburgh's tea scene is enriched by a growing interest in artisanal teas and locally sourced ingredients. Several venues pride themselves on featuring Scottish delicacies like smoked salmon or Edinburgh honey in their tea services.
Understanding Edinburgh's Tea Revival
As the city embraces the tea culture more fervently, several boutique tea makers have emerged. These local artisans supply many of Edinburgh’s high tea venues, ensuring an authentic taste of Scotland in every cup.
Sustainability and Sourcing
Many tea rooms in Edinburgh are committed to sustainability, sourcing their teas ethically and supporting local producers. This dedication to quality and eco-friendly practices enriches the high tea experience, making it both indulgent and conscientious.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between high tea and afternoon tea?
High tea traditionally includes more substantial meals, often served in the late afternoon, while afternoon tea features lighter snacks like sandwiches and pastries, typically served in the early afternoon.
2. Can you accommodate dietary restrictions at high tea venues in Edinburgh?
Most establishments in Edinburgh, such as The Balmoral and Eteaket, offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It's advisable to inform them of any dietary restrictions when making a reservation.
3. Is reservation required for high tea in Edinburgh?
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular locations like The Balmoral and The Dome, to ensure a spot and personalize any particular requests.
4. Are children welcome at high tea?
Yes, many venues in Edinburgh offer child-friendly high tea options and welcome families. Always check in advance to see if a kid’s menu is available.
5. How much does high tea in Edinburgh typically cost?
Prices can range from £20 to over £50 per person, depending on the venue and the offerings included. Luxury hotels like The Balmoral might be pricier compared to casual tea rooms.
In Closing: Embark on a High Tea Adventure in Edinburgh
Edinburgh, with its blend of historic charm and modern vibrance, is a city that truly embraces the tradition of high tea. Whether you are a local or a visitor, exploring the best places for high tea in Edinburgh offers an opportunity to indulge in culinary artistry and soak in the city’s cultural heritage. For more on Edinburgh’s rich tapestry of experiences, delve into additional content available on edinburgh.com.