Tea Etiquette: The Dignity of the Cup

Tea Etiquette: The Dignity of the Cup
Always hold the tea cup by the handle, not the bowl, and hold the saucer in your off hand if you move away from the table. Ekaterina Pokrovsky/Shutterstock
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Whether you’re hosting high tea, afternoon tea (low tea), or simply sipping a cup in front of the fireplace, ritual adds to the enjoyment.

Not So ‘High’ Tea

The words “high tea” conjure an image of a royal, fabulous fête with divine snacks set in the glamorous backdrop of Buckingham Palace. That couldn’t be more wrong. High tea was actually a working man’s reward at the end of a long day, delivered in the form of a hearty meal of meat, baked beans, potatoes, and the best tea the family could afford. The “high” actually refers to the high-backed chairs at the dining table.

Conversely, the fancy afternoon tea (low tea), which we’ll get to in a minute, uses low chairs. Surprise your friends by using the term correctly, forgoing the fancy treats, and hosting a hearty kick-back-and-relax gathering with some exceptional tea.

Sandy Lindsey
Sandy Lindsey
Author
Sandy Lindsey is an award-winning writer who covers home, gardening, DIY projects, pets, and boating. She has two books with McGraw-Hill.
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