Have you ever felt that traditional afternoon tea experiences, while charming, can sometimes feel a bit…stuffy? At Black Ivy Hotel, we understand that craving for something a bit different, a bit more vibrant. That’s why we’ve put our unique twist on the classic Edinburgh Afternoon Tea, blending tradition with our signature lively atmosphere.

We believe that a great afternoon tea shouldn’t just be about the food and drink (although ours are top-notch!), but also about the experience – the ambiance, the setting, and the company. So, let us take you on a journey through our unique afternoon tea offering, where every bite and sip brings the spirit of Edinburgh to life.

In the following sections, we’ll introduce you to our special tea selection, delectable savoury and sweet treats, and the enchanting ambiance of Black Ivy – all while offering an experience that’s accessible and fun for everyone.

afternoon tea in edinburgh

Introduction to afternoon tea at Black Ivy 

Picture a delightful afternoon, a cosy setting, and a table laden with the finest teas and scrumptious treats. That’s afternoon tea at Black Ivy. We’ve taken the traditional afternoon tea and given it a local, lively twist. It’s an experience that feels both luxurious and down-to-earth, ideal for those special gatherings – be it birthdays, baby showers, or simply a day out with friends and family.

The unique flavours of our tea selection

There’s something timelessly elegant about indulging in a traditional Afternoon Tea, especially in the historic and charming city of Edinburgh. At Black Ivy, we celebrate this age-old tradition with our own unique twist, offering a delightful experience that’s both a nod to the past and a taste of contemporary luxury.

Afternoon Tea, with its roots in Royal heritage, was originally a high-class affair to satiate hunger between lunch and dinner. Today, it has evolved into a special treat, a moment to savour luxury from days gone by. At Black Ivy, we’ve taken this concept and elevated it to a new level, ensuring that our Afternoon Tea can effortlessly serve as a replacement meal, thanks to our splendid selection of food.

Our Afternoon Tea packages, starting from just £28 per person, are a cornucopia of flavors. Guests are treated to an array of freshly made sandwiches, homemade scones with jam and cream, mini sweet treats, handcrafted cupcakes, and a choice of tea and coffee. This exquisite selection is designed to delight the senses and offer a true taste of Edinburgh’s culinary heritage.

Savory and sweet treats

The journey begins with our selection of freshly cut sandwiches. They are our little masterpieces, featuring gourmet fillings that range from the classic to the contemporary. Think succulent smoked salmon with cream cheese, perfectly seasoned cucumber sandwiches, or perhaps a twist on the traditional egg mayonnaise. Each bite is a blend of flavours and textures, crafted to start your Afternoon Tea experience on a deliciously high note.

Following the savoury start, we invite you to indulge in our array of pastries and cakes. Each piece is a testament to the art of baking, a sweet treat that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds. From delicate macarons and eclairs to sumptuous scones served with rich clotted cream and fragrant jam, every item promises a delightful end to your afternoon indulgence.

Our chefs’ commitment to quality means that every scone is baked to perfection, every pastry is filled with the finest ingredients, and every cake is a celebration of flavour. It’s a sweet journey through the best of traditional and innovative baking, one that complements our exquisite tea selection flawlessly.

Our savoury and sweet treats are designed not just to satisfy hunger, but to create an experience that lingers in your memory long after the last crumb has been enjoyed.

black ivy dining room

The perfect ambiance: Setting the scene at Black Ivy

At Black Ivy, we understand that the ambiance plays a crucial role in creating an unforgettable Afternoon Tea experience. We’ve taken great care to craft an ambiance that complements the elegance of our afternoon tea while reflecting the vibrant spirit of Edinburgh.

As soon as you step into Black Ivy, you’ll be greeted by an ambiance that’s both inviting and stylish. Our space is a blend of contemporary chic and classic comfort, creating an environment that feels both upscale and relaxed. The décor, with its tasteful accents and attention to detail, sets the stage for an afternoon of leisure and indulgence.

Inside Black Ivy, the atmosphere is warm and intimate, with soft lighting that adds a touch of sophistication. The seating is arranged to encourage conversation and camaraderie while providing enough privacy to make each table feel like its own little world. It’s a space where the clink of teacups and the murmur of happy diners blend into a symphony of contentment.

For those who prefer to enjoy their tea al fresco, our outdoor terrace offers a serene escape. Overlooking the lush greenery of the surrounding area, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy the fresh Edinburgh air and the gentle hum of the city. The terrace is equipped with comfortable seating and is thoughtfully designed to provide a relaxing outdoor dining experience.

At Black Ivy, the vibe is always friendly and welcoming. It’s a place where groups of friends, family gatherings, and solo visitors all feel at home. Our staff contribute to this atmosphere with their attentive, yet unobtrusive service, ensuring that your Afternoon Tea experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Edinburgh Bruntsfield Boutique Hotel

Booking your experience

Due to its popularity, we recommend booking our Afternoon Tea packages at least two days in advance. You can easily booka table here.

Join us at Black Ivy for an Afternoon Tea experience that beautifully blends tradition with the vibrant, contemporary spirit of Edinburgh. It’s not just about the food and drink, it’s about creating moments that become cherished memories!