With innate sense of style and sophistication, the French elevate even the simple act of taking tea to an art form. From the delightful tea salons dotting every Parisian arrondissement to tea served at outdoor cafés nestled in the, hills of Provence, it is wonderful knowing the elegant art and essence of French tea.
According to reknown letter-writer, Madame de Sévigné (1626 to 1696), tea first arrived in Paris in 1636 (22 years before it appeared in England) and quickly became popular among the aristocracy.
Served in centuries-old salons, out-of-the-way cafés, and in charming restaurants and smart homes throughout France, whether it's tea taken poolside at the Hôtel Ritz or a Sunday afternoon tea served fireside in a cozy apartment in the 6th arrondissement, what distinguishes each one is the individual, stylish touches that make no two teas alike.
Mint tea and Moroccan pastries served in a former mosque, elaborate teas taken in a grand hotel, tea enjoyed en famille in a simple loft kitchen, breakfast tea served at the historic Café des Deux Magots - all of these and more can be found happening in beautiful France.
Of course, French tea would not be complete without a selection of pâtisserie - the unique pastries of France. Recipes for the most popular French tea pastries and savories include Tarte Tatin, the famous upsidedown apple tart; Financiers, miniature almond cakes; Honey Madeleines; Fougasse, a flatbread with olives; and Zucchini Quiche.
Le Style will be hosting a French High Tea, or L'Heure du Thé event in Melbourne and Sydney this spring. The event will be beautiful and we will announce the finer details by the end of May. Stay tuned to our websites and social networks.
Images: Marie-Antoinette
