Three new afternoon teas to try in the UAE featuring scones, smoked salmon and storytelling

Three new afternoon tea experiences have launched in the UAE, each offering a unique twist on the traditional British tradition. The first is The Royal Afternoon Tea at The Lana, a Dorchester Collection hotel in Dubai. This tea experience combines classic offerings with storytelling and etiquette lessons. Guests can enjoy a variety of sandwiches, including smoked Scottish salmon with asparagus and dill, and a cucumber sandwich with mint cream cheese and yuzu caviar.

Sweet treats include a Victoria cake, a reimagined Bakewell tart, and a chocolate truffle. The experience also features bespoke storytelling cards and a narrated service that delves into the history of the tradition. The second new afternoon tea is at Hawksbill Restaurant, an all-day dining spot in Abu Dhabi. This experience emphasizes local and regional flavors, with a menu featuring smoked salmon blinis, taco sliders, and other modern twists on traditional afternoon tea items.

Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, coffee, juice, or soft drinks to accompany their meal. Lastly, The St Regis Downtown Dubai has introduced a new afternoon tea experience that pays homage to tradition while featuring seasonal ingredients and artisanal pastries. The menu includes smoked salmon and spinach tramezzini, shrimp cocktail tart, and butternut and ricotta tart, among other items.

Scones are also a key component of the experience, served with Cornish clotted cream and preserves. Each location offers a unique take on the classic afternoon tea, providing guests with a memorable dining experience.