Haddington House in Dun Laoghaire has just launched Afternoon Tea at the Parlour, offering a twist on traditional afternoon tea. It has an innovative seasonal menu that’s well complemented by a glass of Champagne.

Haddington House is an independent 45-room hotel comprising a collection of four Victorian townhouses in Dun Laoghaire. It’s also home to Oliveto restaurant. Oliveto is an Italian inspired neighbourhood restaurant under Executive Head Chef Barry O’Neill, formerly of Michelin Bib Winner, Bastible.

Instead of finger sandwiches, guests are offered a selection of seasonal savoury snacks. The pastry team has crafted a shortbread scone for the second course that pairs with Haddington House’s homemade jams and clotted cream. Accompanying the scone is a selection of loose leaf Ronnefeldt tea served in fine bone china.

The final course is the sweet treats that follow the seasons. The seasonal food offering is complemented by bespoke cocktails, Piper-Heidsieck Brut champagne or a glass of Fritz Muller alcohol-free Muller-Thurgau. 

In a press release, Virginia Anton Haddington House’s Food and Beverage Director said, “The Parlour Afternoon Tea offers a truly elegant experience, made even more so by our exceptional personalised service. This is complemented with a refined collection of crockery and glassware and the highest quality linens. It’s the perfect treat or get-together for those who enjoy beautiful food and the tradition of afternoon tea”.

Afternoon tea was a regular occurrence in Haddington House in the early 1900s. The tea is served in the hotel’s Parlour rooms. Parlour rooms are unique, wide-open rooms in large houses suited for entertaining guests. The traditional parlour room has been replaced with a more contemporary living room in most modern homes.

The Parlour Afternoon Tea is served every Saturday and Sunday from 12.30 to 4 pm, priced at €50 per person, and includes a glass of Champagne. Book here.

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