These tea times to try before the end of winter

Before spring rolls around and we all want to take advantage of the terraces for afternoon tea, discover these five addresses ideal for a tea time in the warmth, sometimes even by the fireside.

Émilie Lesur Published on 2/20/24 at 3:40 PM

In the early 19ᵉ century, the English aristocracy was in the habit of dining after 8pm. To keep them going until then, they introduced the famous tea time, also known as afternoon tea. A sort of snack, as we know it, in which a few savory pieces were included. Two centuries later, this gourmet break has spread everywhere, adapting to the cultures of each country. Here are our five current favorites.

The French snack at the Ritz Paris

Since the beginning of the 20ᵉ century, the Ritz Paris has offered the traditional English tea, served in the traditional way, with sweet and savory dishes. What about the French-style afternoon tea, orchestrated by chef François Perret? 100% sweet, it offers a real return to childhood and is clearly not lacking in generosity, with an average of a dozen items to sample. The experience takes place in the heart of the Salon Proust, certainly one of the palace's finest, cozy at this time of year with its wood-burning fireplace.

15 place Vendôme, 75001 Paris 1
From 75 euros per person
Read Gault&Millau's review of the Ritz Paris

The San Régis snack

Since 2023, pastry chef Jessica Préalpato has been responsible for the menu at the San Régis hotel. What makes it special? It's eaten in six sequences, but brought to the table in a single serving. The chef is no stranger to working with ancient flours, unrefined sugars, plants and flowers to offer customers a singular moment, just like her patisserie. To find out more, visit the hotel restaurant Les Confidences.

12 rue Jean Goujon, 75008 Paris 8
From 65 euros
www.hotel-sanregis.fr

Virginie Garnier

Tea time at the Peninsula Paris

The talents of pastry chef Anne Coruble and chef David Bizet combine to create an exceptional tea time featuring three savory canapés and five pastries. You'll enjoy the house classics adapted to each season, such as the chef's cookie, whose shape and texture have become a signature of her world. The experience takes place in the Lobby of the Peninsula Paris.

19 avenue Kléber, 75016 Paris 16
80 euros per person
Read Gault&Millau's review of The Peninsula Paris

Tea time at the Bulgari Hotel

"The starting point is always Italian tradition," explains Niko Romito, who imagined this menu in collaboration with Bulgari Hotel Paris pastry chef Guillaume Smagghe. A reinterpretation of the afternoon tea, the menu is savory, starting with a scone and three bites, followed by a sweet selection of five Italian pastries that change with the seasons.

30 avenue George V, 75008 Paris 8
75 euros per person
Read Gault&Millau's review of Bulgari Hôtel Paris

The Burgundy Paris snack bar

Léandre Vivier, head of the Burgundy Paris patisserie, has been selling out for several months now. And with good reason: the chef invites his customers to a snack inspired by his experiences, memories and travels around the world. Cookies, chocolate notes and seasonal fruits are always on the menu, providing a fine showcase for the creativity and technical skills of the pastry chef.