Tea Time

The English Tearoom

Though the Chinese are tea fanatics in their own right, with myriad black, green, white, oolong and jasmine blends hailing from provinces far and wide, few would argue that the quintessential British afternoon tea is one of the most elaborate and delicious tea-time traditions in the world. Despite its foreign origin, the people of Beijing certainly seem to be cottoning on to the joys of this beloved custom, largely thanks to The English Tearoom, a new Beidong Flower Market-side homage to the humble cuppa.

Open this past October and helmed by England-native Jennie and her Chinese husband Mo, The English Tea Room has already garnered a fan base spanning generations courtesy of its all-day dining and tea menus, and both main salon and children’s room complete with play area. The charming cafe décor boasts white wooden furniture, daintily patterned tablecloths, Union Jack-coloured bunting as well as a red London phone box greeting guests at the entryway. English breakfast, Earl Grey, rooibos, herbal and fruit teas imported from the UK are all available, along with gourmet coffee, juices, cakes, sandwiches, Scotch eggs, full cooked breakfasts and, of course, that most well-known of all tea accoutrements – scones with jam and rich cream. Temptation with a capital Tea!