Afternoon Tea, 1885, Eastern and Oriental Hotel

* 1885 is now closed. Check out the new renovations of the Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang and afternoon tea at Palm Court here.

As the heat of the day reaches its intensity and the sun begins its slow descent, 1885 is an elegant respite from the day’s activities. Whether you’ve spent the earlier hours lounging by the pool or more energetically traipsing the historical sites, the graceful surrounds of 1885 is a welcome change of scenery.

White linen dressed tables, fresh floral arrangements and views to the sea through soft curtain edged French doors, grace the dining room. The sophisticated setting is rich with mahogany hued wood, beige and fawn walls and, gently glows with warm ambient lighting. Delicate Chinaware and cloth napkins supplement the cultivated setting.

Traditional English Afternoon Tea is a fitting way to experience what 1885 has to offer. Served daily between 2pm and 5pm each set is priced at RM56++ per person and comes with a choice of teas and a set of sandwiches, scones and sweets. A concise menu of black, green, fruit and herbal teas come with recommended brewing times.

A tiered silver platter arrives first holding finger sandwiches of roast beef, cucumber, chicken, smoked salmon, egg and cheese. Each filling is encased by a different type of bread – from white to poppy seed, to filo pastry and even chocolate-layered slices. These savouries are freshly made and a delicate beginning.

Next, the sweets and tea are delivered. Classic English Raisin and Plain Scones are served with homemade strawberry jam and cream. The scones are dense and have a touch of sweetness added by a sprinkling of icing sugar on top. The jam is exquisite.

A colourful selection of Cake and Tea Pastries rings a fine China plate. Petite sized macaroons, cream-filled chocolate rolls, Madeleines, thin rectangles of cheesecake and, strawberry topped chocolate tarts, are just the right size for sampling. My favourites were the dark chocolate logs and hubby’s, predictably the cheesecake.

Reason to visit: elegant seaside setting available indoors or out for an elegant afternoon experience