There’s something magical about sitting down to a table filled with delicate teacups, sweet little treats, and beautiful decor. But let’s be honest—if you’ve ever wondered whether you’re enjoyingafternoon tea orhigh tea, you’re not alone. And no, it’s not just about the name.

At The Tea House on Los Rios, we love sharing the charm behind tea traditions. So, grab your favorite cup and let’s break it down together.

Understanding Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea started in the 1800s with Anna, the Duchess of Bedford. She would get a little hungry between lunch and dinner (same, right?), so she started having tea and light snacks in the afternoon. Soon, she invited her friends, and just like that, it became a stylish, social thing.

Today, afternoon tea is all about elegance and slowing down. Think:

• Tiny finger sandwiches

• Warm scones with jam and cream

• Cute little pastries

• And, of course, a lovely pot of loose leaf tea

It’s not just a meal—it’s a wholevibe. It’s about taking a pause, catching up with friends, and enjoying something beautiful.

The Heartier Charm of High Tea

Now let’s talk about high tea—the one that often gets mistaken for the “fancy” option.

Back in the day, high tea was the evening meal for working families who would return home after long hours in factories, mines, or fields, tired and hungry. The name comes from the fact that it was served at a high dining table, (yep, that’s where the name comes from), rather than the lower, more casual tables used for afternoon tea in drawing rooms. It wasn’t about elegance—it was about practicality. High tea consisted of  food that was warm, filling, and practical. We’re talking:

• Savory pies

• Rustic breads

• Baked beans

• Strong black tea

While afternoon tea was all about luxury, high tea was all about comfort.

So Why the Confusion?

It’s that word:high. It sounds fancy, but it really just refers to the height of the table. Over time, the terms got a little tangled, especially outside the UK, and now many people assume high tea means fancy.

Now you’re in the know—and next time someone mixes it up, you can smile and sip with confidence or share with them a little bit of tea history.

Your Invitation to Tea

Whether you’re drawn to the charm of finger sandwiches or the comfort of hearty bites, both tea traditions have their own kind of magic. But if you’re craving something cozy, beautiful, and a little bit enchanting—then The Tea House on Los Rios is the perfect place to make that moment yours.