5 Reasons You Must Try Indian Afternoon Tea

This Christmas, we’re launching an Indian high tea for our valued customers to enjoy. Discover The Lantern’s take on afternoon tea, Indian style. 

Afternoon tea is a beloved British staple with roots stretching back to the 19^th century. These days, a trip out for afternoon tea is, in its way, an event experience. Something to look forward to. A moment in which friends, family members and loved ones can gather, savour and indulge.

It’s also a familiar, fairly well-worn-out concept. 

If you’re interested in swapping beloved staples like cucumber sandwiches and jam-slathered scones for something a little more out there this festive season, why not sit down for Asian afternoon tea at The Lantern?

What Is Indian Afternoon Tea?

Indian afternoon tea is a parallel tradition to British high tea, often referred to as ‘chai time’. It’s a moment in the day for peace, calm, and conversation, all centred around steaming cups of masala chai. 

At The Lantern, we blend the traditions of British afternoon tea with South Asian customs, such as chai time. We create a tasting journey that is both deeply familiar and brand-new, steeped in the distinct vibrancy of Indian and Thai cuisine.

Indian and Thai afternoon tea bookings will be available to our customers this Christmas. 

On our Maharaja High Tea menu (available for parties of 10+), you’ll find a range of sweet and savoury bites on offer, including numerous vegetarian and vegan options. 

Why Try Indian Afternoon Tea?

For those who love British afternoon tea, Indian afternoon tea isn’t a replacement. It’s a new, delicious layer added to an already incredible use of one’s time. A fresh option to explore.

And for those who’ve never quite understood the appeal of the quintessential high tea spread? This chai time twist might change that entirely. 

Here are The Lantern’s top six reasons to give Indian high tea a try: 

1. Delight Your Senses

From cardamom and coriander to turmeric and ginger, Indian cuisine is renowned for its deft and colourful deployment of spices. 

Wake up your senses of smell, taste, sight and touch alike with a sparkling, flavour-packed spread of drinks and light bites.

2. Relish Conversation and Community 

As with any kind of afternoon tea, it isn’t just about the food and drink. 

Indian high tea offers an opportunity to bond with friends and family over shared enjoyment, interesting conversation, and the considered blend of nostalgia and novelty. It’s relaxing, rewarding, and overall good for the soul. 

3. Expand Your Culinary Repertoire

You’ve likely tasted it all when it comes to British high tea. Whether it’s up your street or not, there’s still plenty to be gained from expanding your culinary repertoire and trying new things. 

An afternoon tea at The Lantern opens up your options to include:

• Classics, like prosecco and macarons

• Thai fusion treats, like spring rolls

• All your Indian favourites, like onion bhajis

4. Experience Cultural Immersion

Combine the best of British and Indian culture in one magical afternoon. Honour the countries’ complicated, interwoven histories. 

Merge existing traditions with beautiful, brand-new ones as you benefit from incredible hospitality, culinary curiosity, and a commitment to food that is not only exciting to eat but vibrant to behold. 

5. Enjoy Potential Health Benefits 

Some of The Lantern’s Indian-Thai high tea elements could actually benefit your cardiovascular health and reduce your stress levels. This is because many of the South Asian teas and spices we use in our afternoon tea menu are rich in antioxidants, which boost your immune system and defences.

We can’t say for sure whether our high tea experience will help, but it certainly won’t hurt. 

The Lantern’s Take on Indian High Tea

If you’re local to Malvern and searching for Indian afternoon tea near me, The Lantern is your answer. We specialise in providing all the hallmarks of a traditional high tea with a spicy twist. 

Our high tea Indian menu is a fusion of culinary influences and rich, aromatic flavour profiles. This includes some Thai elements and influences, which we feel only add depth, deliciousness and uniqueness.

Sip some traditional chai, try an authentic South Asian cocktail or two, or stick to perfectly chilled prosecco. 

Dig into chicken pakora bites, bhajis, Indian-inspired sandwiches packed with spice, and fusion delights like vegetable spring rolls. Then, when your savoury stomach is full, switch to sweet treats (including a selection of perfectly crafted macarons). 

Your entire afternoon tea will be thoughtfully put together by our talented chef.

Book Your Indian Afternoon Tea in Malvern

Create lasting Christmas memories with an afternoon tea tailored to good food enthusiasts and culinary travellers. You’ll find us on site at Mount Pleasant Hotel, nestled against the snowcapped Malvern Hills. 

Whether for a meal or an overnight stay, we’d be delighted to welcome you and your group. 

Make your booking today to avoid disappointment this winter.