We're quintessentially British, which means we're typically prone to a spot of afternoon tea, or so we hear. Plenty of restaurants in the city boast a great selection of tasty sandwiches filled with egg mayonnaise, delectable pastry treats and fizzy tipples, with some even going all out and adopting tea-tailored cocktails (oh, lordy). Check out our recommendations for Birmingham's best afternoon teas below.
Looking for a cheap afternoon tea in Birmingham city centre? You can't go wrong with this cocktail-fuelled spot, thanks to their tasty offering being just £19.95 each. Expect smoked salmon, truffle chicken or tomato and mozzarella sandwiches alongside miniature sweet treats like chocolate torte, as well as an excellent selection of teas and signature sips. They even offer a vegan menu here too.
For an indulgent afternoon treat served in sophisticated surroundings, look no further than Leo's Restaurant and Bar at the Leonardo Royal Hotel Birmingham.
You can unwind in the hotel's sleek, contemporary lounge while enjoying a classic tea service featuring delicate finger sandwiches, warm baked scones topped with clotted cream and jam, and a sweet array of patisserie treats. Paired with fine loose-leaf teas - or upgraded with a chilled glass of prosecco - it's an exceptionally charming experience for baby showers, anniversaries, or afternoon treats.
The stunning surrounds of the Old Joint Stock make a dreamy backdrop for any afternoon tea. Settle into this beautifully decorated Victorian boozer to tuck into dainty finger sandwiches, sweet cakes and indulgent scones.
To wash it down? Your choice of tea or coffee - or a glass of something fizzy if you're feeling fancy. Somehow it gets even more amazing. All this is yours from just £24.50 per person.
Perfect for replenishment after a busy shopping day, Browns dishes out one of the best afternoon teas Birmingham has to offer, coming in at just £25 per person. There's a selection of savouries, including smoked salmon brioche rolls and egg mayo sandwiches, alongside cream scones and mini desserts, all of which can be enjoyed with or without Champagne.
Enjoy a little bit of luxury among gorgeous floral decor at Noel's Bar & Restaurant, thanks to Fortnum & Mason specialty teas or Moet & Chandon Champagne accompanying your bitesize eats. The sandwiches here are filled with smoked salmon roulade or honey drizzled goat's cheese, followed by sweets like pistachio and white chocolate cheesecake, and there's a whole vegan menu too.
After an unusual afternoon tea in Birmingham? Sip on Praza by Pushkar's signature peppercorn and bay leaf-infused black masala chai or Crazy Lassi gin as you chomp your way through their selection of mango and onion pakora, vegetable samosas, chicken tikka finger sandwiches and a delicious range of Indian-inspired sweet treats.
Qavali in Birmingham offers a luxurious afternoon tea experience inspired by Indo-Persian traditions, set in a stunning venue filled with Mughal art and garden-style interiors. Served Friday to Sunday from 1pm to 5pm, the £35 per person menu includes finger sandwiches, scones, Persian chocolate brownies, pistachio baklava, rose Turkish delight and assorted macarons, alongside fine teas like their signature Heart of Persia blend.
Guests can upgrade to include a glass of Champagne for and extra £5, making it a perfect treat for special occasions or a refined weekend indulgence.
Hands down one of the most unique treats in the city, Zindiya's 'High Chai' is bringing you an Indian afternoon tea in Birmingham. Tuck into Bombay sandwiches, paneer or chicken tikka, homemade cardamom scones and seasonal macaroons, all washed down with a steaming pot of their masala chai or a Chai Wala cocktail.
Quite possibly the spot for a mouthwatering afternoon tea, this adorable bar and restaurant in Edgbaston serves up food as pretty as its furnishings. A classic selection of ham and sundried tomato or egg mayonnaise finger sandwiches and delicate sweet treats like cherry and almond frangipanes make Three Church Road a stunning affair, setting you back just £23.95.
Known for its fun flavours and chic presentation, Malmaison's afternoon tea in Birmingham boasts beef burger sliders, prawn cocktails, raspberry ripple sundaes and the added bonus of fizz or cocktails should you so wish. You can opt for a simpler cream tea too, while taking in the stylish surrounds that feature red leather seating and exposed brick walls.
Head up to the gorgeous Sky Bar & Restaurant where you'll find one of the city's highest afternoon teas. Located in Resorts World, you can get stuck into delicate cakes and moreish smoked salmon sandwiches, fresh scones and macarons with views and booze to match. And if that doesn't sound cheesy enough for you, you can tuck into a Ploughman's board alternative.
Tucked away in the Hotel du Vin, this charming bar and restaurant serves up quite the luxury afternoon tea in Birmingham. With an impressive tea and G&T selection, The Bubble Lounge offers a slice of elegance with its ham and mustard sandwiches, egg mayo brioche rolls and mini Bakewell tarts, coming in at £29.95 each.
Fronting colourful wallpaper, quirky hanging lights and botanical decor, The Ivy on Temple Row serves a fantastic afternoon tea for £29.95 per person. Think cured smoked salmon sandwiches, grilled chicken brioche rolls, and indulgent sticky caramel slices, with the option to add on a glass of Champagne for an extra tenner.
