At Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, it’ll cost you to tuck into afternoon tea on the Observation Deck at 300. If you want to save a few dirhams (Dhs30 to be exact) and an ear-popping lift ride, head to the hotel’s sun-filled Lobby Lounge for the very same afternoon tea.

The elegant afternoon tea is served daily from 2pm to 5pm in the dramatic Lobby Lounge. It might not be on the 74th floor, but the dramatic ceilings and architecture and plush chairs overlooking the Corniche offer plenty to appreciate. High or low, there isn’t a bad view in the house.

Hot drinks and a tiered cake stand with sandwiches and desserts are promptly brought out, swiftly followed by the scones.

Afternoon teas often fall into two camps: too much variety with hit and miss items, or feeling like you’re eating the same mini bite over and over. Not at Lobby Lounge Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers.

These aren’t your usual finger sandwiches. A variety of fillings with equally memorable breads and carriers to match, including more unique offerings, such as the small-but-very-mighty tarts (the burrata and candy tomato is a standout) and even a cone with poached salmon, yuzu and avocado.

Scones (plain and strawberry) are not oven-fresh, but are on par with ones that have been served to us piping hot. Lobby Lounge’s scones are paired with jam and cream plus a surprise double madeleine dipped in chocolate.

Desserts are everything from a slice of Battenberg to an orange-frosted cake to a particularly moreish pistachio pudding. (We’d take a full serving of the last.)

Where the Lounge Lobby afternoon tea doesn’t have as much variety is with hot beverages. Basic barrista coffees and a handful of classic teas are available, but in their favour, drinks are swiftly replenished.

What the Lobby Lounge afternoon tea might lack in hot beverage options, it more than makes up for with service, where staff have perfected the art of ensuring you’re looked after without being overbearing. They seem to know just when you might need another hot drink or a fresh plate, and even when you might want another welcome drink or water – even if you don’t think you do. And it’s those little extras that make us want to come back again more than a cup of colour-changing obscure oolong tea ever could.

Dhs220. Daily 2pm-5pm. Unlicensed. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, W Corniche Road (02 811 5666).

Food & Drink, Reviews