In a country where the average national temperature is roughly 30℃, it may seem strange that having tea is even an option. Well, it is, and boy can in be grand! As a previously colonised island, our links to British traditions are still strong, and our ties to some of the English traits that are predominant throughout the UK are very much alive in Malta (take our love for a hearty English Breakfast, for example!)
Afternoon tea is not your simple brew in a teapot though, it’s more of a feast in which some of the daintiest little sandwiches find their way to your table, accompanied by a cute and colourful teacup set for you and your fancy friends to fawn over.
So if you've got a craving for afternoon tea (thanks, gloomy weather!), here are some of our top picks on the island:
1. The Phoenicia
Situated at the entrance of Valletta, The Phoenicia is a great starting point before entering the capital, and why not start off your cultural adventure with an elegant afternoon tea? Cute pastries, fluffy cakes and a gorgeous setting for any Sunday outing. Grab a comfy seat, order up and pretend you’re the queen for at least one afternoon.
2. Palazzo Parisio
“Tea in the garden is a terrible idea,” said no one ever. Just close your eyes and picture it… a piping hot pot of tea, a couple of pretty cupcakes, some finger sandwiches, a chaise longue and the view of a magnificent garden. C.S. Lewis was a short cry away from perfection with the The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, but Palazzo Parisio are spot on. If you don’t believe me, try it out for yourself.
3. Palazzo Castelletti
Now when we say tea, we don’t necessarily mean English Breakfast or Earl Grey. Go wild and try a fruit infusion or take a minty trip to Morocco. Palazzo Castelletti are known for their excellent tea selections, as well as a full counter display of cakes and a top notch kitchen to prepare the sammies. (They’ve also got a great selection of wine, so that might be an option too.)
4. Flora’s
Cuter than pie and a great spot to dig your fork into some luscious cakes. Throw yourself a tea party at Flora’s - whether it’s a party of one or a party of ten, it doesn't really matter, as long as there’s tea, a pretty cupcake and an immaculately tailored setting, there’s no need for company. A good book could be you plus one though… if you like.
5. Lulu’s
Another hip cupcake joint that knows the ins and outs of making a good bake - Lulu’s. With some of the craziest, and most delicious, cupcakes, cakes and other daily baked goods on the island, Lulu’s can really hit that sweet tooth craving. Try the rainbow cake, or the oreo cupcake, or the red velvet, or the… you catch my drift.
Cake, tea and little sandwiches… if only life could be so simple. If we’re not thankful for the language, the education system or the left-hand driving, Great Britain, we’re thankful for the tea.