][1]Afternoon tea seems to be more fashionable now than it was when Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, introduced the custom in the early 19th century.
The Caledonian Hilton on Edinburgh’s Princes Street hasn’t gone quite that retro with its new Belle Époque Afternoon Tea but it certainly harks back to a grander period when the hotel first opened its doors.
Ready for the history lesson? Then sit up straight at the back and pay attention.
La Belle Époque, or ‘the beautiful era’ took place between 1880 and 1914 and was defined by grandeur, extravagance and lavish entertaining. All traits that the hotel hopes to once again recreate with its new afternoon tea.
Served in The Pompadour restaurant, diners can enjoy views of Edinburgh Castle and its surroundings from one of the best vantage points in the city, while relaxing with sophisticated finger sandwiches including Isle of Skye smoked salmon, peeled cucumber and peppered cream cheese and a dessert platter of sumptuous fancies including fresh fruit and cream meringues, mini Battenberg, freshly baked scones and pistachio cream cake.
No afternoon from La Belle Époque would be complete without Champagne and Caledonian Hilton’s Belle Époque Afternoon Tea doesn’t break with tradition. A beautiful bottle of Perrier Jouet Belle Époque Cuvée Champagne is the perfect way to celebrate something special or, as in La Belle Époque, no occasion at all.
Set within the exquisite surroundings of The Pompadour, the Belle Époque Afternoon Tea is priced at £175 for four people.
If that sounds a little steep in the current economic climate, then there are less wallet-stretching options. Book through 5pm and £17 buys Afternoon Tea featuring a selection of sandwiches, scones and pastries along with a cup of tea or coffe. Step up to £24 and the Afternoon Tea includes a glass of Champagne.