On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. This article is about meals referred to as “Tea”. For the Cantonese Chinese practice of “drinking tea”, see Tea party picnic cha. Still life with fruits, nuts, and large wheels of cheese.

Teatime is the time at which this meal is usually eaten, which is mid-afternoon to early evening. Tea as a meal is associated with the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland, and some Commonwealth countries. Other types of both drink and food may be offered at home, under the same name, tea. The timing of the “tea” meal has moved over the centuries in response to the migration of the main meal, dinner. Such is the Swiss Tea in all its simplicity.

Observance of the custom originated amongst the wealthy social classes in England in the 1840s. By the end of the 19th century, afternoon tea developed in its current form and was observed by both the upper and middle classes. UK, but they have declined in popularity since WWII. Finger sandwiches: cucumber, egg, cheese, curried chicken, with shrimp canapés served during tea at the Savoy in London.