Tea for two was perfect

It sort of reminds you of the spread that your granny would put out when the family visited: sandwiches, scones and cakes. Lots of cakes.

Would you call it a meal? Some would argue not and say that it is a only a snack to keep you going until the main offering of the day.

But the spread put before diners at the Itchycoo Bar and Diner in the Edinburgh Radisson Blu hotel on the Royal Mile is certainly a feast.

This wasn’t my first visit to this impressive hotel with its traditional exterior on the bustling historical High Street hiding a modern and stylish interior.

Afternoon tea in the Itchycoo Bar – yes, full marks to all those who guessed correctly it was named after the Small Faces hit Itchycoo Park – is a treat not to be missed.

This latest visit was to make use of a Christmas gift voucher and when we arrived it seemed like many others had the same thoughts of how to spend a winter Monday afternoon.

We were quickly shown to our seats and the attentive waiter talked us through what was on the menu that afternoon. Smoked salmon, ham with hummus and 
cheese and tomato were the sandwich fillings of the day, served on a variety of breads and rolls.

When Christie said no thanks to the salmon she was offered other choices and plumped for tuna.

Everything is freshly prepared and the presentation is very eye-catching.

Alongside the sandwiches was a basket of crisps, while jam and cream accompanied the warm fruit scones. There was also a refreshing cranberry drink, perfect before our onslaught on the dainty cakes.

Tiny meringues, macaroons, carrot cake and chocolate brownie were amongst the delights. All served up with a choice of tea or coffee.

When the plates were finally cleared we both agreed it was the perfect way to spend a couple of hours – and that we would return.