WHY AFTERNOON TEA IS NOT HIGH TEA

What is Afternoon Tea?
In the United States, many people refer to afternoon tea as 'high tea'.  The notion that high tea is always an upscale affair with champagne and cucumber sandwiches is historically inaccurate.  Afternoon tea was first known as 'low tea' because it was served in the afternoon on low tables. The simplest form of afternoon tea was cream tea -- a meal of tea, scones and cream.  

Afternoon tea came to be a 'ladies' social occasion in the Victorian Age when dinner began at  8 or 9 p.m.  The young Duchess of Bedford is said to have asked the cook to prepare an afternoon snack to tide her over until dinnertime.  The charming array of light foods, pastries and teas caught on, and soon became a ritual 'afternoon' tea party popular with members of elite Victorian households. 

What is High Tea?
High tea was served in working class households at 5 p.m. on high tables. Hearty fare such as steak and kidney pie, potatoes, breads, and fish dishes such as pickled salmon were on the evening dinner menu.

Afternoon Tea Today
Afternoon tea is now enjoyed by all socioeconomic groups. It can be an elaborate event or a pause in the day to share a menu of cookies and coffee or tea with a treasured friend.  The spirit of afternoon tea is found in warm, pleasant moments of conversation and connection and the event can be elaborate or simple.
International Tea Day is celebrated on May 21st.
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