Afternoon tea is a well-loved tradition that dates back to England in the 1840s. It’s 2018, and this type of meal is still popular as ever in Metro Vancouver. Those who enjoy their scones with clotted cream will be happy to know that a new spot in town is gearing up to launch this midday treat.

Richmond’s Origo Club (110–6888 River Road), a restaurant-meets-café-meets-art gallery concept, made its debut in June. Just in case you thought their impressive roster of offerings wasn’t enough, the French dining establishment will be adding a unique afternoon tea service ($45 per person) to its menu on Friday (August 31).

The treats are served on a spherical three-tiered stand, which is meant to allude to the “O” in Origo. Guests will find custom plateware on the table, similar to the intricately decorated Chinese porcelain from the imperial era.

Housemade scones with cream and jam lay on the bottom tier. The middle section features savoury bites that include finger sandwiches, mushroom choux buns, and egg-and-bacon tarts.  

On the top tier, you’ll be able to satisfy your sweettooth with items like lemon tarts, vanilla and rum Chantilly with fresh fruit, macarons, financiers (French almond cakes), among other tasty things.

Pair your meal with espresso-based beverages from its Modbar brewing system, or choose from a selection of green, black, and herbal teas. If you’re feeling fancy, go for a glass of Barons de Rothschild champagne for an additional $35 per person.

Origo’s café manager and pastry chef Remi Ho (Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill & Enoteca, Au Comptoir, Chez Christophe) oversees the tea service, bringing a wealth of experience from other local, critically acclaimed spots to this Richmond eatery.

Aside from afternoon tea, Origo regularly features a lunch, dinner, and an after-hours menu. Its new tea service will be available on Fridays and Saturdays (1:30 to 4 p.m.), and reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.