REVIEW : Chocolate Afternoon Tea at Dobbies – A Sweet Escape in Edinburgh
If there’s one thing that can instantly lift the spirits, it’s chocolate. Pair that with afternoon tea and a stroll through Scotland’s largest garden centre, and you’ve got the perfect indulgent experience.
Dobbies Garden Centre in Lasswade, Edinburgh has undergone a massive refurbishment, transforming its food hall and café into a modern, welcoming space. Among the standout additions is a dedicated afternoon tea area, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling main café.
A Refined Space for Afternoon Tea
The newly designed space embraces neutral tones—greens, browns, and beiges—giving it an industrial-chic feel with exposed beams and pipes. While the setting is elegant, a few pops of colour—perhaps blush pinks or sunshine yellows—could add warmth. A statement floral arrangement or quirky lampshades would elevate the ambiance further.
But let’s be honest, the real star of the show is the Chocolate Afternoon Tea.
A Decadent Chocolate Afternoon Tea Experience
As soon as we were seated, teas were ordered, and within minutes, a beautifully arranged cake stand arrived, stacked with delectable treats.
Savoury Delights
The first tier featured petite finger sandwiches on fresh white and brown bread, each bursting with flavor:
Ham & Wholegrain Mustard – A perfect balance of smoky ham and tangy mustard.
Egg Mayo – Creamy yet light, avoiding the usual mayonnaise overload.
Cucumber – Crisp and refreshing.
Salmon – A delicate, melt-in-the-mouth experience.
Initially, I wondered why there weren’t any chocolate sandwiches (what would that even look like?), but by the end, I was grateful for the savoury balance.
The Chocolate Journey Begins
The middle tier is where the magic happens—Chocolate Chip Scones, served with clotted cream and a generous bowl of Nutella.
Forget jam—Nutella and cream is the ultimate scone topping. The chocolate chips add texture, while the rich, creamy layers create a melt-in-the-mouth experience. Two scones per person might sound manageable, but trust me, one is enough to fill you up—though you’ll keep going because they’re irresistible.
The Grand Finale – Chocolate Heaven
The top tier is a dream for chocolate lovers:
Chocolate Caramel Tart – A perfect balance of crunchy biscuit base and smooth caramel filling.
Chocolate Mousse – So light and airy, it practically floats.
Chocolate Black Forest Gateaux – A rich, velvety slice with cherry, cream, and dark chocolate.
Chocolate Éclair Bon Bon – A bite-sized delight, filled with airy cream and coated in sweet chocolate.
Despite the chocolate overload, the desserts are expertly crafted, ensuring they’re light and indulgent rather than overwhelming.
A Perfectly Poured Cup of Tea
No afternoon tea is complete without a great cuppa, and Dobbies delivers. Their teapots pour beautifully, ensuring a smooth, mess-free experience.
For just £12.50 per person, this Chocolate Afternoon Tea is an absolute must-try.
A Stroll Through Dobbies & A Pineapple Surprise
After indulging in afternoon tea, a leisurely walk through Dobbies Garden Centre is the perfect way to unwind. Among the lush greenery, I stumbled upon a gorgeous pineapple tree—a symbol of hospitality that I now need to add to my collection.
Final Thoughts – A Must-Try Experience
The Chocolate Afternoon Tea at Dobbies is a delicious, affordable treat that’s perfect for family, friends, or a solo indulgence. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, afternoon tea enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing escape, this experience is highly recommended.
Dobbies Garden Centre, Melville Nursery, Lasswade, Midlothian, EH18 1AZ. Tel: 0131 663 1941 www.dobbies.com/find-a-garden-centre/edinburgh
My Spoon Award : Gold Spoon 9/10
I was invited by Dobbies to review their Afernoon Tea. Food and drink were complimentary but the views are very much my own.
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