Indulging in a luxurious afternoon tea Bali experience is the perfect way to pause and savor the island's slow pace.

While this ritual originated in 19th-century Britain, the "Island of the Gods" has embraced the tradition, blending classic elegance with tropical breathtaking views.

Whether you are a tea connoisseur or simply looking for a photogenic midday treat, read on to discover everything you need to know about enjoying the best afternoon tea Bali has to offer.

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A Sip of Afternoon Tea History

The tradition of afternoon tea is said to have started in the early 1840s with Anna Russel, the 7th Duchess of Bedford. At the time, it was common to only have two main meals a day, with dinner served as late as 8:00 PM.

The Duchess often complained of having a "sinking feeling" in the late afternoon and requested a pot of tea and a light snack in her boudoir to bridge the gap.

What began as a private ritual quickly evolved into a social event for the upper echelons of society. Friends were invited to join her for "tea and a walking the fields," and soon, fashionable society was sipping tea in drawing rooms across Britain.

Today, afternoon tea remains a beloved indulgence to celebrate special occasions or simply enjoy a pause in the day.

Afternoon Tea vs. High Tea, What's the Difference?

You will often hear the terms used interchangeably, but they are historically distinct.

1. Afternoon Tea

Traditionally served around 4:00 PM on low, comfortable parlor chairs (hence the term "low tea"). It is a light meal composed of delicate finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries.

2. High Tea

This was a working-class meal served later in the day, around 5:00 or 6:00 PM, at a "high" dining table. It was a substantial meal with hot food like cheese on toast or meat dishes to sustain workers after a hard day of labor.

In Bali, most venues use the term "High Tea" to sound grand, but they are technically serving the luxurious, light "Afternoon Tea" experience.

Tea Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts

To truly enjoy your afternoon tea like a royal, there are a few rules of thumb to follow:

• Scones First: The order of eating is typically sandwiches first, followed by scones, and sweets last.
• The Jam Debate: In Devon, cream goes on the scone first; in Cornwall, it is jam first. Feel free to choose your side, as the scone is merely a vessel for the toppings.
• Stirring: Never stir in a circular motion. Move the spoon from 6 o'clock to 12 o'clock as if folding the tea, then place the spoon on the saucer.
• Pinkies In: Despite what movies suggest, sticking your pinkie finger out is considered rude. Keep it tucked in.

The Magic of Balinese Afternoon Tea

Bali has taken this British tradition and infused it with island charm. The best afternoon tea in Bali is not just about the food; it is about the setting.

You can find tea served in glass houses surrounded by orchids, on cliff-tops overlooking the Indian Ocean, or in the midst of the Ubud jungle.

Moreover, Balinese afternoon tea often features a sophisticated fusion of flavors. Alongside classic cucumber sandwiches, you might find local delicacies like Dadar Gulung (coconut pancakes) or Spicy Tuna Satay Lilit, paired with premium blends from local tea pioneers such as Brew Me Tea and Made Tea.

These pairings bring the utmost refinement to a traditional afternoon ritual, celebrating Bali's rich culinary heritage.

Where to Find Afternoon Tea in Bali

Bali's afternoon tea scene is defined by its settings. Choose your view first, then let the pastries and tea do the rest.

1. Jungle Views

In Ubud, afternoon tea often comes with a front-row seat to river valleys and rainforest canopies. Venues here lean into calm and nature, making it ideal for slow conversations, soft breezes, and that quiet, tucked-away feeling the area is known for.

If you're the kind of traveller who prefers greenery over crowds, Ubud's jungle tea spots feel like a gentle reset in the middle of the day.

2. Oceanfront Luxury

For a more glamorous take, head to Nusa Dua or Seminyak where afternoon tea is paired with sea air and coastal views.

You can sip by the shoreline with the sand underfoot or settle into a refined lounge with panoramic ocean scenery. This is the best style for couples and friends who want a polished atmosphere, elegant plating, and a sunset-adjacent mood that carries effortlessly into the evening.

For those chasing Bali's most iconic trends, your concierge can arrange for the Mawedangan at Jumeirah, an elevated Afternoon Tea at Tanah Gajah, or the immersive Tropical Forest Afternoon Tea at Padma Resort.

These afternoon tea experiences represent the utmost standard of Balinese hospitality, blending world-class service with the island's most breathtaking landscapes.

3. Vintage Charm

Last but not least, if you love timeless spaces, Biku remains a classic for afternoon tea in Bali. Set inside a historic Javanese joglo, the experience feels like stepping into a curated old-world home filled with antiques and warm details.

Vintage style Balinese afternoon tea is perfect for those who want tradition, atmosphere, and a tea ritual that feels more like a slow, nostalgic escape.

Feel the Utmost Luxury of In-Villa Afternoon Tea with Nakula

Why travel to a hotel when the best afternoon tea in Bali can come to you? At Nakula, we elevate this ritual by bringing it directly to the comfort of your private villa.

Imagine lounging by your private pool while our team sets up a stunning three-tier stand filled with artisanal pastries, warm scones, and savory bites. There is no need to dress up or worry about reservations.

Whether you want a romantic setup for two or a fun garden party for your family, our concierge team can customize the menu to your preferences.

It is the ultimate way to experience the privacy, service, and luxury that defines a Nakula stay.

ALSO READ: The Ultimate Bali Travel Guide: Navigating Paradise

Book Your Private Tea Experience Today

Finding the perfect afternoon tea Bali experience is as simple as staying with Nakula. Forget the crowds and the commutes; let us bring the "sinking feeling" remedy of the Duchess of Bedford right to your doorstep.

Contact Nakula today to book your villa and request your exclusive in-villa afternoon tea service!