FOOD : Afternoon Tea Twenty Princes Street, Edinburgh

There is something undeniably charming and timeless about the tradition of afternoon tea that ensures I will never tire of it. The delicate clinking of teacups, the fragrant aroma of freshly brewed tea, and the sight of tiered trays adorned with finger sandwiches, scones, and delicate pastries instantly transport me to a world of elegance and indulgence. Afternoon tea is more than just a meal; it is a cherished ritual that offers a respite from the hurried pace of modern life. It allows me to slow down, savour each bite, and truly connect with the cherished company I share it. Whether it's a traditional spread or a creative twist on the classics, afternoon tea continues to captivate me with its refined simplicity and unwavering ability to create moments of blissful nostalgia.

REVIEW OF AFTERNOON TEA AT TWENTY PRINCES ST, EDINBURGH

Twenty Princes Street does Afternoon Tea so well in their grand and elegant dining space with private circular shaped booths and those large windows that showcase Edinburgh at it’s finest.

Christmas only adds to the magic here, elevating the experience to exceptional heights. The twinkling lights cast a warm glow and you might catch a faint scent of cinnamon and spices in the air.

The tea menu, showcasing Edinburgh Tea makers, Shibui, boasts a delightful selection of blends, ranging from Earl Grey to Berry Hibiscus. We loved the Berry Hibiscus fruit tea! It’s a tantalising infusion bursting with the delightful flavours of ripe berries and fragrant hibiscus petals, making it a truly delectable and refreshing beverage and perfect for our Afternoon Tea.

Afternoon Tea is started with an Amuse Bouche of Pea and Watercress Soup followed by a clinking of Champagne flutes. Twenty Princes Street Afternoon Tea comes with unlimited tea and coffee refills and as many of those plain and fruit, extremely buttery scones as you can eat, although I promise you, the two they provide is ample.

No afternoon tea would be complete without a selection of tantalising treats, such as Sour Cherry Macarons, chocolate and hazelnut madeleines and delectable spinach, walnut and feta pies. The wooden tea stand is laden with sweet and savoury treats with scones served on a separate plate along with a selection of jams and clotted cream.

We loved

  • The Spinach, walnut and feta pie

  • The Beef Pastrami and gouda sandwich

  • Sour Cherry Macaron

  • Chocolate and Hazelnut Madeleine

  • Lemon and poppyseed financier

  • Scones

I always find that Afternoon Tea allows for time to slow down, allowing you to savour each morsel and moment, making sure that a delightful afternoon tea experience lingers in your memory long after the last crumb is gone. At Twenty Princes Street, they’ve successfully managed this, and with the addition of Christmas, as the cosy warmth of the festive season wraps around us, there is an undeniable joy in sharing a meal with loved ones and cherished friends. Whether toasting champagne or sharing laughter over Afternoon Tea, these precious moments create memories that last a lifetime.

THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT TWENTY PRINCES STREET AFTERNOON TEA

  • Their Christmas Afternoon Tea is now being served

  • Disabled accessible with an elevator up to the 1st floor where you will find Twenty Princes Street and Juniper Bar

  • They do cater for dietary requirements, just let them know


Twenty Princes Street, 20 Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2AN www.twentyprincesstreet.co.uk

My Spoon Award : Gold Spoon 9/10