The Duchess of Bedford would have been quite impressed if she saw how the ‘high-tea’ tradition she had once started was being embraced in modern times. For an authentic ‘Afternoon Tea’ experience that is as regal as it was always intended to be, Muscat’s high-heeled patrons have found a new favourite – Tarini Lounge in Jumeirah Muscat Bay.
The high-ceilinged, sun-kissed lounge has a distinct sense of space. With contemporary décor adding a minimalist yet liberating energy to the lounge, it is impossible to not be encompassed in a sense of tranquillity the minute you enter. Large glass windows offer glimpses of the beauty that lies beyond. Step outside for a breath of the crisp, salty air of a beachside venue and take a moment (or a few) to admire the palm-tree flanked azure infinity pool that seamlessly appears to merge with the ocean in the distance. The view, in short, is perfect to work up an appetite.
A tastefully layered and generously stacked three-tier silver platter arrived soon after we had found a comfortable niche. Tier one had an interesting combination of melt-in-the-mouth mini doughnuts, marshmallows and strawberries, and fresh scones (no afternoon tea is complete without it). Of course, complementing it was a hearty serving of chocolate fondue, and the traditional homemade strawberry jam and clotted cream. The feast continued to the next tier – an absolute paradise for those with a sweet tooth. The rich assortment included exotic berry tarts, strawberry eclairs, chocolate and raspberry sachers, blueberry and mascarpone domes, and blackberry macaroons. In the bottom-most tier came the savory delights in the form of mini tomato and mozzarella pizza, rice croquette with beef ragout, open smoked salmon sandwich, beef pancetta and melon, and tandoori chicken on a crispy tortilla.
The ‘tea’ part of the affair allows you to choose from a specially curated selection of green, white, and black teas that are bound to please even the most discerning tea drinkers. To experience absolute finesse in tea preparations, the Floral tea is worth a try. Also called the ‘blooming tea’, its heightened taste and fragrance comes from delicately infused with jasmine and marigold flowers. Keeping coffee lovers in mind, Tarini Lounge also includes popular coffee favourites in its beverage selection.
Sip your chosen beverage, indulge in some ornately layered finger-friendly snacks, and watch the sun go down over pristine shores – that is a high tea experience worth talking about!
The signature afternoon tea at Tarini Lounge is open daily from 14:00 – 18:00 and is priced at RO. 22.