Afternoon tea evokes images of Victorian ladies in their best hats sipping from fine china cups in a Kensington hotel. It was the quintessential British thing to do. But times are changing.
Afternoon tea has enjoyed a renaissance in the last couple of years and hotels and cafes in the UK are not only reviving the tradition, but giving it a new edge.
We went to The Principle York on a brisk Sunday afternoon. The first thing you notice about the Principal is the peaceful atmosphere of the hotel. Positioned next to the main York Rail Station, you find yourself walking a little slower in the corridors to soak up the history and beauty of this magnificent building. The Garden Room is elegant with its armchairs and sofas: just the solution when you have been hitting the shops.
So to the food. First, choose your tea. Sorry no PG or dare I say Yorkshire Tea here. We had Breakfast tea, light and refreshing, which as a non-tea drinker I found very enjoyable. The option of a glass or two of Champagne unfortunately had to be declined as we were both driving.
The food menu is set. Savouries are Blini with Beetroot cured Salmon-small but perfectly presented and packing lots of flavour. Sausage roll is chunky pork with apricot in a light crisp puff pastry. However, the Artichoke soup with white Truffle oil is the stand out. Light but flavourful and very moreish. Sandwiches are Cheese with an Apple Chutney and Turkey with stuffing. Both well-presented and fresh.
The sweets look amazing and we left them until last. Why? Because the Scones were delivered warm from the oven. Golden crust conceals a light and warm inner just crying out for jam and clotted cream.
The cranberry and orange had a beautiful texture and subtle flavours. Other treats are Battenberg, Christmas cake, Mince Pie, a sponge cube with wonderful orange fondant icing and a chocolate log.
My partner was too full to try the latter two.
The staff can also make or break a dining experience. I can say that Liam who was our waiter was very polite and explained the menu and dishes as they were served.
If you are out in York shopping or sightseeing and are in need of some light refreshment in the afternoon, the Principal York offers a serene sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
It’s not cheap, but the food is fresh and sourced locally within Yorkshire.
Take a moment to look at their Christmas scene, a village with trainset made from sweets and cakes!
Booking is advisable.
The Principal York
Station Road
York YO24 1AA
Telephone – 01904 653681