Southern Charm: High Tea

Have you ever been invited to “High Tea?” High Tea actually refers to the height of the table. It’s an afternoon meal served at a dining table height vs. a lower coffee table height. And get this. The high tables are actually where the working class sat to eat. If you’re saying you’re having “High Tea,” you’re really saying you’re doing a blue collar thing, nothing really fancy at all. Correctly and historically speaking, High Tea was a working-class meal served on a high table at the end of the workday, shortly after 5 p.m. Afternoon Tea, or “Low Tea” as it was called, on the other hand,  is what most people think of when they hear ‘high tea.’ It involves things like manners, lace, and dainty foods. It is typically served in the mid-afternoon and it was traditionally served on low tables, hence its two names. If you’re looking to impress your future guests with scones and tiny, perfectly cut sandwiches, this is correctly known as Afternoon Tea. Mother’s Day will be here before you know it, just watch and see how many upscale hotels and establishments offer “High Tea.” But now you know better! Invite your gals out for Afternoon Tea instead!

XOXO Robyne