What Is High Tea?

What is High Tea? It sounds so grand, doesn't it? Many people have mistaken High Tea for afternoon tea. So, what's the difference? Does it really matter?

High Tea is served after six o'clock in the evening so named for the lateness or "high" time of day or as others suggest the "high" table in the kitchen or dining area on which the meal is served. Consisting mainly of meat dishes, cheeses and bread; High tea is a hearty end of the work day meal enjoyed by the working class.

Afternoon tea, sometimes referred to as low tea (since it was served on low tables in the parlor), is served between three and five o'clock. Served as a late afternoon snack to keep one filled up between set meal times; i.e. a late dinner time.

Afternoon tea was more of a social event for the upper class. The working class had no servants and were busy running their own households and did not have time for such social events.

Today afternoon tea is a daily rite in hotels and tea houses around the world. Although some refer to it as "High Tea", if you are served dainty sandwiches, sweets, and scones, you are actually enjoying "Afternoon Tea."

When planning a tea event, remember the proper wording and plan according to the food you are serving and the time of day.

Some foods for High Tea include: Shepherd's Pie, Plum Pudding, Welsh Rarebit, cornbread, smoked meats, cheeses, breads, fruit, cake.

Finger sandwiches are not served at High Tea. Tea may or may not be served, but many people still refer to their evening supper as "tea"