Afternoon Tea has become a refined culinary trend in Bahrain; think exquisite leaves, assorted viennoiseries, macarons, finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and homemade artisan jam. Across the island, various venues are enticing those who seek a touch of luxury. If you’re looking for a glimpse of a past era while savouring a sophisticated meal, read on for our favourite high tea venues in Bahrain.

Ycone Paris at Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain

It’s only right that Bahrain’s most luxurious new hotel opening is also the spot for afternoon tea, and one of the best afternoons in the Kingdom can be had at Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain. Nestled amongst the palatial grounds and gardens, Ycone Paris is a collaboration between French master pâtissier Yazid Ichemrahe and the luxurious Singapore-born hotel brand, and the Raffles Bahrain is the Raffles Afternoon Tea tells the art of pastry making and stories – each creation paying homage to Yazid’s childhood. Desserts include Tahitian Vanilla Crème Brûlée, warm Banana Bread, reminiscent of Sunday afternoons baking with his ‘Tati and the indulgent Chocolate Fondant of his childhood birthdays. Enjoy sweet and savoury delights as you gaze onto the lush tropical gardens and hear the birds chirp.
raffles.com/bahrain; @rafflesalareenpalace.bahrain

Bay View Lounge at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

This lavish afternoon tea experience at one of Bahrain’s most luxurious hotels offers finely cut finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry preserves, alongside a tempting range of pastries and teacakes. The elegant yet artistic interiors of the Bay View Lounge create a graceful atmosphere enhanced by floor-to-ceiling views of the stunning Manama skyline and Bahrain Bay. Treat yourself and your loved ones with handcrafted delicacies and small treats inspired by Alice’s Wonderland, curated by executive chef Leonardo Di Clemente.
Daily from 12 pm onwards and costs BHD 18 per person; fourseasons.com

The Orangery Tearoom and Patisserie

The Orangery Tearoom and Patisserie is one of the most popular, and stylish, venues for afternoon tea in Bahrain – with three outlets across the island: the at Palmyard Hotel and at The Avenues and Al Liwan malls. These graceful cafés and patisseries feature interiors that evoke an eclectic European salon, with classy floral print, pastel walls and a colonial flair, along with outdoor spaces (head to The Orangery Al Liwan for a terrace reminiscent of English-style gardens). The renowned Afternoon Tea Experience lets you enjoy slices of decadent cake from the counter, freshly baked scones with assorted jams and clotted cream, an assortment of mini pastries and finely cut sandwiches, served on a three-tiered stand along with a selection of brewed tea.
Daily from 12pm, BHD 16 for two; orangeryme.com

Gourmet Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain

As one of the island’s most prestigious and revered hotels, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain has been an afternoon tea veteran for years, having been well-versed in providing a relaxed yet luxe experience to its residents and guests. This timeless hotel located in Seef provides a quintessential English afternoon tea at its Gourmet Lounge, where you can enjoy a selection of teas, petit fours, scones and finger sandwiches, accompanied by lively piano music and elegant ambience. Their selection of pastries (the famous single-serve cheesecake that is unrivalled) itself should be enough to motivate you to spend your afternoon here with friends. Despite the seemingly exclusive grandeur, this is one of the most popular and renowned afternoon teas in Bahrain.
Available daily from 12:00 noon onwards, (price upon request). Visit ritzcarlton.com for more information.

Café Sego

Cafe Sego is a charming café located in Bahrain’s Diplomatic Area, and is arguably one of the most unique and eccentric spaces in the capital. The kitschy space transports guests to 18th-century Paris, taking pride in not only offering a taste of French cuisine but also in showcasing France’s history and culture in the curated selection of antiques placed all around. Their afternoon tea boasts a delightful selection of choux pastry, mini quiches, eclairs and mini sandwiches, which are served with a teapot or classic coffee. It’s also a popular breakfast and coffee break spot, thanks to an extensive menu of jolly dishes comprising seven types of French toast, a multitude of egg dishes and specialities like ‘pink toast’.
Daily from 12 pm onwards, BD 16.5 for two; cafesego.com