Tea Time

Afternoon tea is perhaps a most quintessential aspect of life in England, or at least it is traditionally. Occasionally substituting English Breakfast for Starbucks Verona blend, and suddenly craving a spot of tea around 3:30 p.m., I was on my way to drinking tea with my pinkie out. However, it wasn't until 9 months into our time here that I experienced my first "proper" afternoon tea.

While Cole and Raymond were visiting, the idea of afternoon tea was thrown around. At first, Raymond and I were not quite on the boat, but when I realized that it meant doing something "English" while sitting down, inside, eating and drinking, AND visiting with best friends--what more could you really want? (Thanks for the tea encouragement, Cole!)

After researching the top teas in London, we booked in at Fortnum and Mason--we wanted to do this right!

Fortnum and Mason, an old and luxurious department store on Piccadilly (since 1707) is like Harrods in terms of quality but with an actually pleasant experience. There were very few people shopping there, so you could browse in peace without being bombarded by elbows from across the world or getting lost. Known for beautiful window displays, lovely and appetizing hampers, and as the Brits say "gorgeous" teas, what a perfect place to visit and explore with dear friends.

First of all, the afternoon tea was divine. Definitely the best splurge I've had in London so far. It was so lovely doing something so British while sitting down in a relaxing and beautiful environment. We booked the Afternoon Tea in St. James's Restaurant. You can have your tea in a few other locations in store as well. After sinking (well, not sinking, we tried to look proper and thus with good posture!) into comfortable sofas with pillows that have English scenes on them, a smart waiter arrives to advise you on your tea--which sounds easy but is anything but with so many choices and beautiful names! (Cole had Queen Anne's, I had the Piccadilly, Raymond had a tea I can't remember and a refreshing pitcher of homemade lemonade) Soon after comes your own pot of tea in a beautiful china pot with matching tea cup. They also bring out sandwiches, as well as the sweets for you to choose from. Heavenly.

I was expecting something quite a bit lighter, but as perhaps not-so-proper-Americans we were so relieved to find they would box our extras up in a most exquisite doggie-bag! This could certainly serve as a late lunch before a light dinner. After relishing the time in the St. James, explore the floors below where you won't be rushed and will be intrigued and amazed by the beautiful wares. Head down to the ground floor to find you favorite tea, a gift to take home, or perhaps your own beautiful tea cup. After a day of sight-seeing or perhaps even 9 months in a big, hectic city, taking time for a proper afternoon tea is the perfect way to recharge your batteries while appreciating the best that English culture has to offer!

For more information check out Fortnum & Mason's

{Note: There are many places to have tea from the Ritz to the Dorchester to the Grosvenor House to The Orangery at Kensington Palace. Do some research to find a menu, price, and setting that looks perfect for you! Some even offer options for Children's Teas!}