Afternoon Tea

Tradition with a modern Twist

There’s something undeniably elegant about taking a moment out of your day to sit down, slow down, and enjoy a proper afternoon tea. My first encounter with this beautiful British ritual was, naturally, in London — the very city where this tradition began.

Delicate porcelain, silver tea stands, tiny sandwiches cut with precision, warm scones with clotted cream, and the soft hum of conversation — it was like stepping into a different time. Afternoon tea, after all, is more than just a meal. It’s a tradition that dates back to the early 19th century, credited to Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, who introduced it to bridge the long gap between lunch and dinner. What began as a small private ritual quickly became a fashionable social event among the British elite. So, if you ever want to immerse yourself in the traditional English version, I can only recommend one place: The Ritz in London. Its afternoon tea is iconic for a reason. From the gilded décor to the impeccable service and the sound of live piano music, it’s the definition of classic refinement. It’s one of those experiences that belongs on every traveler’s London itinerary — a taste of history served on fine china.

My second afternoon tea experience couldn’t have been more different, yet it was equally remarkable. This time, it was at the Mandarin Oriental in Luzern, where they bring a modern touch to the tradition — a true fusion of old and new. The presentation was beautifully contemporary, yet the essence remained the same: three tiers of delights, from savory to sweet, and a wide variety of tea blends to choose from. It’s an experience that feels luxurious but also heartwarming — a modern expression of timeless hospitality, perfectly aligned with the refined principles of Switzerland dining etiquette.

While afternoon tea is delightful at any time of year, I find it especially charming in autumn. As the days grow shorter and the air a bit crisper, there’s something comforting about sitting indoors, surrounded by the scent of freshly brewed tea and warm pastries. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon with friends, a special treat for your mom, or even a romantic date, afternoon tea is the perfect blend of elegance and connection.

Because at its heart, afternoon tea isn’t just about the tea — it’s about taking time to enjoy the moment, savor the details, and celebrate the company you’re with. And in today’s fast-paced world, that might be the reason why it feels so modern again.

Traditionally, afternoon tea is enjoyed from the bottom tier upward — starting with savory sandwiches, then warm scones, and ending with sweet pastries on top. The tea itself is served loose-leaf, not in bags, and should be poured carefully through a small strainer into the cup. And, as etiquette always reminds us, one should never forget this small act of courtesy — pour a cup for the person sitting next to you before serving yourself.

A Note on the Mandarin Oriental Luzern’s Afternoon Tea

If you happen to be in Switzerland, the Mandarin Oriental Palace in Luzern is currently offering a delightful Afternoon Tea experience that perfectly combines luxury with creativity. Served in their elegant lounge overlooking Lake Lucerne, the tea comes presented on a classic three-tier stand — the lower plate filled with delicate finger sandwiches and savory bites, the middle with warm, freshly baked scones accompanied by homemade jam and clotted cream, and the top tier reserved for the most exquisite pastries and sweets.

Their tea menu is truly impressive, featuring a curated selection of premium blends from all over the world — from classic Earl Grey and Darjeeling to floral and herbal infusions. The hotel’s pastry chefs reinterpret traditional elements with a modern twist, offering seasonal flavors and beautifully designed desserts that are almost too pretty to eat. 

Whether you’re a local or visiting Luzern for a weekend getaway, it’s an experience that captures the true essence of refinement — and a great way to celebrate the cozy elegance of the autumn season!

Their tea menu is truly impressive, featuring a selection of premium blends from all over the world — from classic Earl Grey and Darjeeling to floral and herbal infusions. The hotel’s pastry chefs reinterpret traditional elements with a modern twist, offering seasonal flavors and beautifully designed desserts that are almost too pretty to eat. 

And perhaps that’s the real beauty of afternoon tea — it’s not only a tradition, but also a treat. A reminder that it’s perfectly fine to indulge yourself every once in a while, to make an ordinary day feel special. And if you ever run out of ideas for a birthday surprise, an anniversary celebration, or even a first date, Afternoon Tea might be the most thoughtful (and delicious) choice.