The ritual of afternoon tea has long stood as a hallmark of luxury hospitality, offering guests a refined pause amidst the rhythm of the day.
Along the Red Sea coast, Raffles Jeddah is elevating this classic tradition with a distinctively contemporary interpretation. Set inside the light-filled Atorie Lounge & Patisserie overlooking the vibrant Jeddah Corniche, the hotel’s culinary leadership has introduced "The Art of Afternoon Tea", a daily experience designed to fuse classic French pâtisserie technique with the subtle precision of Japanese gastronomy.
At the heart of the experience is a dedicated focus on tableside ritual. Guests are greeted with a bespoke tea trolley showcasing a curated selection of rare Japanese infusions. Each tea is measured, steeped, and poured using specialised brewing techniques right at the table, transforming the simple act of service into a theatrical exhibition of hospitality. This mindful beverage ceremony sets a calm, elevated tone before the culinary courses arrive, served on a bespoke four-tiered stand crafted for the lounge.
Curated by Executive Chef Carmine Di Luggo, Sous Chef Riccardo Bon, and Executive Pastry Chef Jean François Lavialle, the food menu balances classic European sensibilities with Asian flavours. The savoury selections reimagine high-tea staples through a Japanese lens, featuring a delicate Tamago egg sandwich served on soft Shokupan bread, teriyaki beef encased in vibrant matcha bread, and smoked salmon layered with cucumber and trout caviar. Complementing the sandwiches are bite-sized creations, including flaky shiitake mushroom puffs, compressed watermelon with feta, and a charcoal choux pastry filled with sweet crab salad.
The sweet progression highlights traditional French technique while incorporating light, modern elements. Guests can sample caramelised salted pecan éclairs, classic tarte au citron, and pistachio-raspberry financiers alongside delicate vanilla mochi and fluffy Japanese cheesecake with fresh berry coulis. The journey concludes with freshly baked warm scones — offered in both traditional and matcha tea varieties — served alongside rich clotted cream and strawberry jam. Served daily from 3pm to 7pm, and prices for The Art of Afternoon Tea experience starts from SAR 350 per person. This new launch is set to establish Atorie Lounge & Patisserie as a premier coastal destination for refined afternoon gatherings in Jeddah.
