40 Years of Grandeur: Afternoon Tea at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa

The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa has stood tall over Festival Square for four decades, a grande dame of Edinburgh’s hospitality scene. Its kitchens have shaped countless chefs, cooks, and pâtissiers—and to mark its milestone birthday, it’s serving up a nostalgic Afternoon Tea that celebrates each decade in style.

We’re welcomed at a small reception between the lively, polished One Bar and the dining room. While the latter lacks the buzz of the bar, our waiter, Hein Og, brings warmth and charm with his friendly and attentive service. 

The Savouries  

Each bite nods to a different era:

- 1980s: A dinky prawn cocktail—uber fresh and delightfully retro.  

- 1990s: Smoked salmon fishcake with curry mayo.  

- 2000s: Brioche bun with roast chicken and rocket pesto.  

- 2010s: Cucumber and miso sandwich—tasty, though sadly marred by slightly stale bread.

The Teas

Served in glass cups and cafetières, the teas are as much a visual treat as a flavourful one. We sip Earl Grey, Green Tea, Blackcurrant & Hibiscus, and Peppermint. A  palate cleanser, Jasmine Pearls Sparkling Tea is a non-alcoholic mix of green tea and jasmine. It is poured from a wine bottle into a champagne flute: dry, bubbly, and refreshingly elegant.

The Sweets

Petite scones come with jam, clotted cream, and a luscious butterscotch spread. The entremets are a highlight:

- A ‘contemporary’ éclair—pretty, fruity, and delicate.  

- A 90s funfetti macaron with peach whipped ganache.  

- A playful take on the Black Forest Gateau rounds out the celebration.

The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa’s 40th Anniversary Afternoon Tea is a journey through time, thoughtfully curated to honour four decades of culinary evolution. From retro prawn cocktails to playful entremets, each bite tells a story. 

Available Friday to Sunday, 1pm to 4pm, the Afternoon Tea is priced at £59 per person.