A tea-rrific afternoon

Views and brews, finger sandwiches and desserts make for a pleasant time at The Tea Lounge.

A Burj Khalifa view is arguably one of the top swaying factors for any kind of reservation in Dubai. And rightfully so, given that the architectural marvel makes for a defining streak in the skyline.

The surrounding architecture only adds to the over-the-top luxurious views with which the emirate is synonymous, with each structure offering its unique take on an indulgent experience. One such offering is the Afternoon Tea at the Tea Lounge.

Located in the lobby at the Address Fountain Views, the afternoon begins with the promise of opulence right from the entrance. Displays of Manolo Blahnik and the like, a grand piano, pastry cases, views of an infinity pool, the Dubai Mall, and of course, the Burj Khalifa set the tone for an impressive time.

Dressed in tones of pastel pinks, bright red hues and pops of blue, The Tea Lounge is as elegant a space as it is comforting. There is also a minimally designed terrace space for those looking to make the most of the weather while it lasts.

Once you settle, the actual tea itself is served fairly quickly. The three-tier circular cake stand makes for a stunning sight enhanced by the views beyond. With about 13 carefully crafted offerings, it is a delightful mix of sweet and savoury, and an evident display of talent by the culinary team.

The staff are quick to explain what everything is, then leave you to conquer your cake stand. On the savoury front, one can explore a myriad of sandwiches, cucumber-encased rolls, tartlets, and more. Each bite is as different as the last, and also serves as a great conversation piece while you dissect the ingredients chosen.

The desserts include traditional tea-time delights like raspberry tarts, mini eclairs, and mousses hidden inside artistic creations. They try to be as fresh and light as possible, a seemingly hard venture given the ten other things we have devoured.

This might also serve as an opportune moment to select from an array of tea and coffee options, or juices if you so prefer. A lemon-mint person myself, the fresh juice made for a refreshing palate cleanser amid all the honeyed treats.

The pièce de résistance would have to be the freshly baked scones. A traditional plus chocolate chip option is served with authentic clotted cream, strawberry jam, and orange marmalade. Warm and buttery, they hold their own on an afternoon of indulgence.

And an afternoon it is. Life seems to get slower over a cup of tea, seated on a table with endless views, serenaded by the quiet. The interesting mix of hotel residents, people tapping away on their laptops, couples holding hands, and families fussing over kids with their nannies in tow, serve as sufficient entertainment for a perfect, laidback Saturday.

 

For reservations, please call 04 245 8888

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Image source Address Fountain Views

Caroline D’Almeida

A little bit of India, a little more of the UAE, and a lot of shawarma perhaps best captures Caroline’s anatomy. An avid believer in value for money, her hobbies include putting the ‘elite lifestyle’ to the test. And finding cheaper dupes for it all. A Sharjah girl new to the capital, she hopes to discover the pulse of the emirate.