March may be my birthday and I always look forward to it, but mostly I look forward to what treasure of a journey Katija will be taking me on. (No pressure babe.) Note to readers: She started this trend herself.
Todays journey was to Qavali in Birmingham, for a Indo-Persian Twist to my beloved Afternoon Tea. I mean really would it be anything else?
Qavali – Birmingham
Entering the venue was a surreal experience itself, rich colours, hanging greenery, dangling lanterns, rich golds. Pure Persian Delights.
If Aladdin ever opened a shop- this would be it.
We could not get enough. picture on picture on picture does not captivate the grandeur of this place. and the soulful rhythms of Qawaali music playing the background was pure perfection.
From the chaotic streets of Birmingham we were transported to a serene Persian Garden with rich green plants, red roses, ornate decoration, and hints of gold giving it, its arabesque feel.
Persian Afternoon tea at Qavali –
Now the main event. Afternoon tea.
It did not disappoint
Mocktails to start
Our experience started with a non-alcoholic Cocktail named ‘Paradise Garden’ Of course its called that! We literally are in a paradise garden. Made of sweet Lychee, Golden Grapefruit, Rose essence. Pure perfection in a very beautiful looking cup (you guys know I love my cups, in all shapes and sizes)
The stand
And then came out our stand, and a beautiful stand I ever did see, still keeping in theme with its rich colours, and hints of gold, a masterpiece in itself. Accompanied with a show of dry ice, it was the showstopper.
Read here: Afternoon Tea at The Old hall Hotel
Afternoon tea consisted of finger sandwiches, we had a choice between chicken tikka with roasted peppers, or paneer tikkas with sun dried tomatoes. we opted for the chicken tikka as most of the afternoon tea places we go to do not cater for halal, so this was definitely a treat. we also had 2 savoury bites on the side, cream cheese with cucumber and hummus with sundried tomatoes.
Scones
Scones are the epitome of Afternoon Tea, with jam and clotted cream, I’m salivating as I write
and our sweet treats consisted of Persian chocolate brownie, pistachio baklava, a piece of Turkish delight and macarons.
What a infusion of flavours, texture and colour.
Tea
And the tea? Lets not forget this part, Qavali’s signature “Heart of Persia” tea blend—an infusion of rose, mint, cardamom, chamomile, jasmine pearls, and rooibos .
Read here: Afternoon tea at Corinthia London
Also…
Guys before you leave, do check out the toilets- yes I said it. Don’t miss it. Its a treasure itself. The owners of Qavali have left no stone unplaced. The Persian blue (of Aladdin’s cape) run through, with the rich gold. An absolute dream.
My Honest Verdict
Qavali is not just a place to eat, its an aesthetic experience and Katija knows well I eat with my eyes.
I loved everything about it, from the décor, to the food to the treat at the end for my Birthday.
Thank you for making every birthday special. I look forward to the next one (big wink)
Qavali is located at 60 Broad Street, Brindley Place, Birmingham, B1 2HJ. Reservations are recommended to ensure a spot.
Book here if you know what’s good for you: qavali.com/afternoon-tea
