While many of us have heard of high tea, there is, in fact, another form of tea tradition called afternoon tea. They’re often used interchangeably as many believe that they’re the same! This is understandable due to both tea traditions being steeped in British tradition and history.
In this article, we’ll explore the basic differences between the two and how do you go about organising the best high tea you can find!
What Is The Difference Between Afternoon Tea And High Tea?
Afternoon Tea is a British tradition of sitting down for an afternoon treat of tea, sandwiches, scones, and cake. While the name Afternoon Tea suggests it’s served at noon, it is instead served around 4PM.
In fact, Afternoon Tea is the occasion for what most people know as high-tea – it involves things like elaborate socialisation, detailed decorations that often include lace or even delicate finger foods that are bite-sized. Today, as before, they’re considered more of a ladies’ social occasion than men’s
On the other hand, high tea was a working-class meal served on a high table at the end of the workday. For workers in the newly industrialized Britain, tea time had to wait until after work – hence, tea was generally served with heartier dishes which were substantially more than just tea and cakes. High Tea was given its name because it was traditionally served at higher dinner tables, not because it involves a higher class of people!
What Do You Usually Eat During Afternoon Tea?
Today, Afternoon Tea is no longer a ‘quick snack’ between meals. It’s a treat or a ritual that we choose to indulge in! Naturally, this will then involve food that are enjoyed leisurely than other forms of food while spending time in lovely tea rooms and having amazing conversations with friends and family.
A typical Afternoon Tea menu is light in nature but doesn’t miss out on flavours. Common appearances are scones, tarts, finger sandwiches, assorted pastries, muffins and much more! They’re also usually served with an assortment of jam, marmalade, clotted cream lemon curds, and herbed butter. In terms of presentation, they often come in a multi-tiered platform that’s a delight to both your eyes and tastebuds!
Lastly, the favourite teas for Afternoon Tea include black teas like Earl Grey as well as lighter teas like Chamomile and Mint.
Looking For The Right Caterer For High Tea Or Afternoon Tea In Singapore?
Choosing the caterer for your Afternoon Tea or High Tea session is not as easy as it looks.
The best caterer can balance the quality as well as the presentation of the food while delivering the best bang for your budget!
When you order an afternoon tea or high tea catering in Singapore from Chilli Manis, you’ll have a variety of dishes and small menu items to choose from. You can also mix and match your dishes for a memorable Afternoon Tea or High Tea session.
As a halal-certified caterer, we seek to present the most authentic Afternoon Tea to all in Singapore. Keen to try our Afternoon Tea or High Tea catering services? Contact us at 6250 1112 or email sales@chillimanis.com.sg.
