We’ve had afternoon teas that were delicious.

We’ve had afternoon teas that were outrageously good. But we’ve never had an afternoon tea that was so beautiful, so delicate, so perfect, that we almost didn’t want to eat it.

Almost.

This winter, The River Lee hotel is celebrating its namesake with the launch of its new afternoon tea offering, The Journey of The Lee – and it is a stunner.

Available every Saturday and Sunday from 12 pm to 3pm, this themed experience pays tribute to the ever-changing beauty of the River Lee, with a selection of treats as varied and enchanting as the river’s course itself.

A sensory celebration of the surrounding landscape and tranquil waters, all the desserts and pastries reflect the shifting hues of the river and the sky, all in tones of the prettiest soft blues and vibrant greens, while each carefully crafted bite showcases the natural beauty of Cork’s local produce.

The experience honours Cork’s finest local suppliers, incorporating their produce into a selection of sandwiches, pastries, and desserts that tell the story of the river’s rich food culture.

Settle in for a feast of local fare 

The experience begins with a selection of savoury sandwiches, each a nod to Cork’s renowned local producers. We’re talkin’ Twomey’s spiced beef with aïoli and pickles on Guinness bread, delicate Ballycotton crab and dill on a navette bread roll, West Cork chicken pesto mayonnaise and Riverview egg mayonnaise with black truffle brioche.

Now for the sweet stuff; there’s a Barry’s Earl Grey tea macaron, Healy’s farm honey crémeux, paired with a delicate blue butterfly pea tea jelly, and the Franciscan Well Rebel Red caramel and milk chocolate mousse cake.

The journey continues with a trio of freshly baked pastries –including a gingerbread slice, a pumpkin spice scone, and a sea buckthorn Madeleine – adding a distinctly seasonal touch to this unique afternoon experience.

You’ll be needing lashings of tea, natch; choose from a curated selection including Cork’s own Barry’s Gold Blend – the house pour, of course – or explore the rich flavours of Ronnefeldt’s loose-leaf teas, or a variety of speciality coffees.

The classic afternoon tea is €45 per person or you can add a touch of sparkle with the Champagne option – both available to book now.