The London Ritz Book of Afternoon Tea

One of my favorite reference books is “The London Ritz Book of Afternoon Tea – The Art and Pleasures of Taking Tea” by Helen Simpson.  Despite the long title it’s just a tiny little book but chock full of useful information.

The book is a history lesson on tea interspersed with tons of recipes, including the required standards like crumpets and cucumber sandwiches.  Be sure to read the instructions on how to make a perfect pot of tea on the last few pages.

Naturally, there is a chapter about tea at the Ritz.  We are told that there are no clocks in the tea room creating a “strange sense of taking a holiday from time.”  Doesn’t that just say it all?