Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British tradition, a delightful ritual that has been enjoyed for centuries. Known for its delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an array of sweet treats, afternoon tea offers a refined and indulgent experience that pairs perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed tea. At SAF Restaurant, we have embraced this classic tradition, while adding a modern twist that makes our afternoon tea experience uniquely memorable.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for an elegant way to spend a leisurely afternoon, our Modern Afternoon Tea elevates this timeless British custom, bringing it into the present with creative flavours, innovative presentations, and a relaxed, stylish atmosphere. Join us as we explore the art of afternoon tea and what makes our version at SAF truly special.
A Storied Tradition with a Contemporary Spin
The tradition of afternoon tea dates back to the early 19th century, credited to Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, who is said to have introduced the practice to England. Initially a small snack to stave off hunger before dinner, afternoon tea soon became a social occasion in its own right, enjoyed by the aristocracy and eventually by people of all classes.
At SAF Restaurant, we honour the origins of afternoon tea but give it a contemporary upgrade. Our menu is designed to reflect both the elegance of the past and the exciting flavours of today. While we keep the essentials — finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats — we reimagine them with bold ingredients, modern presentations, and a focus on local, seasonal produce.
Innovative Sandwiches: A Fusion of Classic and Modern Flavours
The foundation of any great afternoon tea is the selection of sandwiches. At SAF, we take this classic component and inject some creativity into it. Instead of the traditional cucumber, smoked salmon, and egg varieties, we offer exciting modern fillings that surprise and delight.
- Roast Beef with Horseradish Cream – A rich, tender roast beef paired with a creamy horseradish sauce, offering a satisfying, savoury bite.
- Truffled Mushroom and Cream Cheese – A luxurious vegetarian option, with earthy mushrooms, tangy cream cheese, and a hint of truffle, bringing elegance to this humble sandwich.
- Avocado and Tomato with Basil Pesto – For those who prefer a lighter, plant-based option, this fresh combination of avocado, sun-ripened tomatoes, and aromatic basil pesto is a vibrant take on a classic.
We serve these sandwiches on freshly baked bread, perfectly cut into delicate finger-sized portions, ensuring that each bite is a harmonious blend of flavours.
Scones: Light, Fluffy, and Irresistibly Buttery
No afternoon tea is complete without scones, and at SAF Restaurant, we elevate this traditional treat to new heights. Our scones are made to order, ensuring they’re warm and fresh when they reach your table, with a soft, crumbly texture that practically melts in your mouth.
- Classic British Scones – Served with clotted cream and jam, these scones are a must-have for any afternoon tea. We use the finest British cream and seasonal jams, often featuring fruits like strawberry, raspberry, or even a tangy lemon curd to pair perfectly with the warm, flaky scones.
- Buttermilk Scones with a Twist – For a more modern take, we offer scones infused with unique flavours such as lavender, honey, or even orange zest. These subtle additions give the scones a delicate complexity that pairs beautifully with a wide range of teas.
The beauty of our scones lies in their balance of flavours and textures — perfectly buttery and slightly sweet, they serve as the ideal vehicle for clotted cream and jam.
Sweet Treats: An Artistic Display of Desserts
The sweet component of our afternoon tea is where we truly let our creativity shine. At SAF Restaurant, we go beyond the traditional offerings of pastries and cakes, presenting an assortment of visually stunning and delicious desserts that blend modern artistry with classic British flavours.
- Lemon & Elderflower Sponge Cake – A light, moist sponge layered with elderflower-infused cream and zesty lemon curd, this cake brings a floral twist to a classic favourite.
- Miniature Eton Mess – A contemporary interpretation of the traditional dessert, served in individual portions with fresh berries, crisp meringue, and a hint of whipped cream.
- Chocolate & Salted Caramel Tartlets – A rich and indulgent combination of silky dark chocolate ganache and salted caramel, encased in a delicate pastry shell, for those who love a sweet yet savoury contrast.
Each dessert is crafted with care and precision, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavours that are as visually pleasing as they are delicious.
Tea Selection: A Curated Collection for Every Palate
The true star of any afternoon tea is, of course, the tea. At SAF Restaurant, we’ve curated an exquisite selection of teas to complement every part of the experience. Whether you prefer the classic flavours of black tea or are in the mood for something more adventurous, we have a range of blends that will enhance your afternoon tea.
- Traditional Earl Grey – A timeless favourite, with its fragrant blend of black tea and bergamot, it’s the perfect match for both sandwiches and scones.
- English Breakfast – Rich and full-bodied, this robust tea pairs wonderfully with savoury items like our truffled mushroom sandwiches or the roast beef option.
- Jasmine Green Tea – For something lighter and more refreshing, our jasmine green tea adds a floral note that complements the sweetness of our desserts.
- Herbal Infusions – We also offer a selection of herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint, and a soothing rooibos, providing a calming finish to your afternoon tea.
Each tea is served in a beautifully designed teapot, with a matching cup and saucer to complete the experience. Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to recommend the perfect tea to complement your chosen treats.
A Relaxed Yet Elegant Setting
The atmosphere at SAF Restaurant is key to our modern afternoon tea experience. While we maintain the elegance of this beloved tradition, we’ve created a relaxed and inviting space where you can enjoy your tea in comfort. Whether you’re seated by the window with a view of the bustling London streets or nestled in a cozy corner, every detail of our restaurant is designed to enhance your experience.
The soft lighting, contemporary decor, and attentive service all contribute to an environment where you can truly unwind and enjoy the pleasures of afternoon tea, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a little mid-afternoon luxury.
Final Thoughts: A Modern Twist on a Timeless Tradition
At SAF Restaurant, we take pride in offering an afternoon tea experience that blends the best of tradition with a refreshing, modern twist. From our innovative sandwiches and indulgent scones to our creative desserts and expertly selected teas, every element of our afternoon tea is carefully crafted to provide a memorable, unique experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned afternoon tea enthusiast or new to this British tradition, we invite you to join us and enjoy our take on this timeless ritual. Perfect for special occasions, catch-ups with friends, or simply treating yourself to a moment of elegance, our modern afternoon tea promises to be an experience you won’t soon forget.
Book Your Afternoon Tea at SAF Today
Ready to experience afternoon tea like never before? Book your table at SAF Restaurant and indulge in our delightful modern twist on this cherished British tradition.
