AFTERNOON TEA @ LE CAFÉ, EMIRATES PALACE, ABU DHABI

A visit to this incredible cafe had been on my culinary bucket list for a long time. Hence, I was eagerly looking forward to my trip to Abu Dhabi to experience its food and hospitality. Traditional meeting contemporary, luxury coupled with finesse, grandeur with a touch of warmth was what I experienced when I went in for an afternoon tea here. The menu was riveting and sumptuous to match the plush settings of this opulent cafe and I could not wait to indulge in their gastronomic marvels.
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So, here is a look at my gluttony at this magnificent cafe:

I could not wait to commence my gluttony with their signature EMIRATES PALACE CAPPUCCINO. The beverage was a perfect blend of espresso topped with cappuccino cream finished off with an enthralling, generous sprinkling of 24 KARAT GOLD FLAKES. This coffee was not only a visual treat but also a pleasure to the palate.
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Along with the cappuccino I thought it was only befitting to order scones. Golden raisin and plain variety of LIGHT AS FEATHER SCONES were served with different scrumptious spreads and fresh blackberries & raspberries. The scones lived up to their name and were the flakiest scones I have ever had. The spreads - orange marmalade, Devonshire clotted cream, lemon curd, blueberry compote and wild raspberry & rose petal preserve were all supremely delectable.

The lip-smacking ROYAL MEZZEH (vegetarian) platter was one massive feast comprising of both delicious cold and hot mezzeh preparations. Hummus, baba ganoush, moutabel, muhammara, wine leaves, pickled olives, tabouleh, samboosak and falafel formed part of this platter. Each dish delighted the taste buds with its unique flavors to make this platter one of the best mezzeh I have eaten in my culinary journey so far.

​I love fried food and when the menu has a mention of 23 KARAT GOLD DUSTED SWEET POTATO FRIES, it is difficult to refrain from placing an order for the same. The finger chips were given a coating of corn flakes to make them crispy on the outside while the core was soft and mushy. A garnish of gold dust added to the overall presentation of the fries and these were served along with a chipotle mayonnaise dip.

The aforementioned dishes were all that I could stomach during my afternoon tea. But, it was an exceptional experience blended with spectacular ambience and superlative service that I will cherish for a lifetime.

Also, for those looking at visiting the Le Café, please note prior reservation is an absolute must to gain entry in the premises. The dress code is smart casuals and men especially need to avoid wearing open foot wear or shorts. In addition, a minimum spend of 100 AED per person is expected from diners.

My toothsome dining experience at Le Café was indeed a memorable one. So, do try out this place and let me know what you think about it.
Till then, HAPPY TRAVELLING...