High tea in Colombo, and when to go

High tea in Sri Lanka began with the same colonial custom as English afternoon tea, but over the last century it has become something of its own. Here it is a proper afternoon meal, more savoury than sweet, and usually eaten a little later in the day.

What goes on the stand

There are two versions, and they are quite different.

The Ceylon stand is the local version: cutlets, patties, devilled dishes, spring rolls and a small fish bun, with sambol on the side and something sweetened with jaggery on the top tier. It is spiced and filling, and it is what a Sri Lankan family would order.

The English stand is the classic version: finger sandwiches, scones with cream, and small cakes and tarts. It is lighter and milder, and a good choice after a few days of curry.

The tea itself

Ask where your tea comes from, because Sri Lankan tea varies by region. High-grown tea from Nuwara Eliya is light and brisk, Uva tea has a sharper flavour, and low-grown Ruhuna tea is dark and malty and works well with milk. Supermarket tea labelled Ceylon is often a blend of all three.

Many people in Colombo now order an iced coffee in the afternoon instead, which is easy to understand when it is thirty degrees outside.

When to go

The best time is between four and half past five. The strongest heat has passed, the pool is still warm enough for a swim afterwards, and the evening traffic has not yet started. Before four it is very hot, and after six most people move on to an evening drink.

Here

High tea is served every day from 15:30 to 18:30 at LKR 2,900 net per person, or LKR 5,800 net per platter, and the price includes a pot of tea, a coffee or an iced coffee. It is served beside the pool at Amber Poolside. It is open to everyone, not only hotel guests.

Please let us know a day in advance. The offers page has the details, or send us a WhatsApp message.