Afternoon tea is always a good idea, but afternoon tea at Jumeirah Royal Saray? A berry good idea. Here’s why.

Anna Maria Russell is a name we take seriously around here. After all, the 7th Duchess of Bedford unknowingly invented the concept of afternoon tea, having complained of the “sinking feeling” that resulted from mid-afternoon hunger. She felt the gap between lunch and dinner was far too long, and let’s all just admit it: she was right.

Anna would request the likes of bread, butter, and maybe a handful of biscuits in the evenings, washing it down with a pot of tea. So, of course, the culinary talents at Jumeirah Royal Saray stepped in, upgrading the now-beloved tradition to A Berry Good Moment – no pun intended. This rather aptly named offering is served daily from 2pm to 7pm on the terrace of The Palm Lounge, with everything – and we mean everything – in the sweets section infused with bright, juicy berries. There’s lighter-than-air blackberry macaroons, eclairs of a rather unexpected colour (courtesy of strawberries), the famous Sachertorte cake accented with raspberries, a vibrantly hued Blueberry & Mascarpone Dome, and more.

In contrast, the savoury section brags a gourmet selection that includes rice croquettes with beef ragout, open-faced sandwiches with smoked salmon, homemade duck ham with melon, and tandoori chicken on crispy tortilla in case you’re craving a hint of spice. But would afternoon tea even be afternoon tea without warm, freshly baked scones? Hint: no. Here, the mouthwatering scones are served with homemade preserve and clotted cream. And if all that wasn’t indulgent enough, there’s even chocolate fondue accompanied by mini doughnuts and marshmallows. Fit for royalty, we say. ✤

GO: CALL 7770 7070 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.