Forget
napping, afternoons are made for mini-banquets. Afternoon tea is tradition that
spans many countries, but few have quite so many options in one place as Dubai. Whether you want yours chilled and beachside, or sky high and luxe – here
are some of the best ones to tuck into.

Hakkasan in Emirates Towers

Hakkasan is one of the most well known asian restaurants in the world, never mind just Dubai. So when they announced a new Afternoon Tea menu that will be available every Saturday from 3pm – 6pm throughout the course of the year (excluding Ramadan), we were intrigued. Like all good afternoon teas, this one does tea and cake very well. They have eight unique Taiwanese or Chinese tea, with arguably the best cakes on this list, with dim sum included for 128 AED. The Champagne option will 248 AED. In the up coming summer months, this is a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. 

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Almaz
by Momo

The ever stylish (in regards to both food and interiors) Almaz by Momo has
just got even better, and now serves a delectable three-tiered afternoon tea.
The extensive selection of mouth-watering morsels includes mini sandwiches,
burgers and a variety of eye-rollingly good desserts. At just AED 105, it’s a bargain
to boot. Try it for yourself daily from 3pm-6pm at either their Mall of the
Emirates or JBR The Beach branches.

Skyview
Burj Al Arab

One
of the most iconic afternoon teas in Dubai is set amidst the 7 star luxury of
the Burj Al Arab, and offers views and food to match. Get there early to score
a window seat as they’re first come, first serve, and nothing goes better with
a seven course tea of cakes and finger sandwiches than the sea stretching out
before you. For AED 620 per person, you can choose either the 1pm or 4pm
seating. And make sure you have your camera ready to capture the experience of
your private lift to whiz you up to your seat. Served every day apart from
Friday.

The
Surf Cafe

The brand new ‘Surf Break’ afternoon tea at The Surf Cafe is one with a
difference. Forget the stuffy formality of finger sarnies and scones, here it’s
all about a laid-back selection of delicious bits and bobs. There’s the chicken
mayo spread on crips bread, gluten-free cinnamon cupcakes and homemade truffles
to give your sweet tooth some attention. They even serve super healthy acai
shots – right on, man. It runs from 3pm – 7pm on weekdays and costs a mere
AED 128 for two…yes two people! Get involved.

Ritz
Carlton JBR

There
are a couple of options to choose from at the Ritz Carlton‘s Lobby Lounge, but
rest assured they’re all excellent. Whether you want the ‘manliest’ afternoon in town with menu highlights including beef tartar with fried quail egg, mini Wagyu sliders with foie gras and duck rillettes with grilled country bread, washed down with an optional Whiskey flight or a lovely cup of loose-leaf tea. For only AED 295  (including the flight of whiskey) or AED 185 (a selection of teas) this is ideal for the men to tag along to too.  Alternatively go for The Traditional Tea (AED 190) which is described as a ‘thoroughly fancy affair’ perfect for those looking for a classic afternoon tea – think smoked salmon rillettes éclairs and yummy desserts such as jasmine and mango entremets. Feel like adding a glass of champers? No problem. Just go for the The Royal Affair ( AED 330).

 Served daily from 2pm-6pm it’s the
ideal way to break up a stroll along JBR The Walk.

The
Farm

Escape
into a setting of rural bliss at The Farm’s daily afternoon tea. Set among the
picturesque foliage, you can gorge on mini open sandwiches, desserts and fresh
scones served with cream and jam. Served daily, and at just AED 125 per person
(or AED 230 for two), this is the perfect excuse to get in the car and head out
to this unique dining and relaxation spot between the hours of 3.45pm and 6pm.

At.Mosphere
Lounge Burj Khalifa

Set
on 122nd floor with views over the whole of Dubai, the afternoon tea at
At.Mosphere is one for those who have a penchant for the finer things in life. Choose from a window seat for AED 580 or AED 530 for non-window, that covers you for the Luxurious Package (which includes a glass of bubbly). Expect finger sandwiches, then a choice of roast or catch of the day and finish off with delicious pastries and scones…and unlimited hot and cold drinks are included too. At.Mazing!

Now read: Six of the best places to get cheesecake in Dubai