Gentlemen’s Afternoon Tea at St David’s Hotel

Overlooking the vibrant hub of Cardiff Bay, the five star St David’s Hotel boasts impressive waterside views. Already a popular spot for a traditional afternoon tea, the sophisticated Tempus at Tides Bar and Restaurant have expanded their tea offering with a Gentlemen’s Afternoon Tea which I was invited to review.

Update: Tempus at Tides has been replaced by The Admiral St David, click here for a more recent review.

The first distinct difference to a traditional tea is the inclusion of a half pint of Rev. James Ale, a warm and mellow flavoured ale using a century old recipe. I’m not a huge beer fan but I can see why they’ve gone with this as it goes really well with the savoury bites.

If you prefer a cup of tea, freshly brewed Novus is available, and the knowledgable staff were on hand to explain the range of flavours, including a delicate darjeeling and refreshing Egyptian mint.

The presentation is rather impressive, it’s clear a great deal of effort has gone into this tea with two pots of chutney to enjoy with the pork pie and savoury scone. 

The top tier contained a warm mini beef burger, scrumptious rarebit with pulled pork and minty sausage roll – beautifully made and full of flavour. 

Save for later: My afternoon tea experience at Park Plaza Cardiff and Cocorico (opens in a new tab)

The very generous serving of tomato chutney and pork pie also went together swimmingly. 

I do enjoy a sweet scone so was curious to see what the tarragon flavoured scone would be like. In fact I was pleasantly surprised to discover it was very light to taste, topped with a tangy punch from the rich pickle chutney. 

Next to this on the bottom tier was a Yorkshire pudding filled with slices of beef and crispy onions – comparable to a mini roast dinner (with horseradish instead of gravy). 

My sweet tooth enjoyed the final treats that included three flavoured macaroons (lemon, strawberry and chocolate) that also had an incredibly soft texture. 

The jar of trifle was also a delight, I did attempt to eat it with the dainty chocolate spoon but caved and tucked into the jelly with a regular tea spoon.

It’s fair to say this was a very filling and meaty Afternoon Tea, it’s like some of my buffet party favourites have been given the luxury treatment and packaged into a stylish wooden stand. I did have left overs and fortunately had these boxed up to enjoy at home later that evening. 

Anyone can enjoy the Gentlemen’s Afternoon Tea (even ladies), it’s a very welcoming change from the traditional sandwiches and cake. 

The Tempus Bar and Restaurant also boasts a tremendous view, and before the Welsh weather turned many people enjoyed lounging outside on the heated terrace. 

For more information or to book, visit St David’s Hotel website by clicking here.

I was invited to review the Gentlemen’s Afternoon Tea, however all opinions are my own. 

View my other afternoon tea reviews in Cardiff by clicking here.