So, where did this beloved tradition come from, anyway? As it turns out, afternoon tea has its roots in 19th-century Britain, where it was popularized by the upper class as a way to while away the hours between lunch and dinner. And when it comes to the timing, it's generally agreed that afternoon tea is best enjoyed between 3 pm and 5 pm - but why is that, exactly?
I mean, think about it - 3 pm is like the sweet spot between lunch and dinner, when you're starting to feel a bit peckish but don't want to ruin your appetite for dinner. And that's exactly why afternoon tea is so brilliant - it's like a mini-meal that's just substantial enough to satisfy your cravings, without being so filling that you can't enjoy your dinner later on.
Tea Time Pictures | Teatime Gallery – TISE