High Tea in Dublin

High tea is a tradition that continues in Dublin, from funky neighborhood spots to the most posh hotels.

At the high end of the spectrum is the Merrion Hotel's "Art Tea", with cakes inspired by art in the hotel's collection.  It's almost too pretty to eat.  Tea here will set you back 36 Euro (or 49 Euro with champagne as well as tea).  Here's a short YouTube video of tea at the Merrion:  video

The Westbury hotel offers an amazing view over Grafton street, as well as a million dollar art collection, along with tea.   Tea here is 30 Euro (or 36 Euro with champagne).

Compared to the first two, tea at the Lord Mayor's Lounge at the Shelbourne is almost a bargain, at €29,95 (or €38,50 with champagne).  According to their web site (link below), this is the place to "see famous Irish and international faces mingling with local Dubliners enjoying this award-winning indulgence."  Here's a short YouTube video of tea at the Shelbourne:  video

On the less expensive, less formal and decidedly funkier side of the spectrum is the Queen of Tarts, a relative newcomer to the Dublin high tea.  It was opened in 1998 by two sisters who trained as pastry chefs in New York.

Links to learn more:

Merrion Hotel Art Tea

Westbury Hotel

Shelbourne Hotel Tea

Queen of Tarts