What is the most popular afternoon tea sandwich ?

There are certain sandwiches which are considered to be a staple at afternoon tea with their absence noticed if they are missing. While afternoon tea becomes more modern and chefs introduce their own twists and unique flavours, sometimes the traditional options are the most popular. On February 1st, a poll was conducted to find out what the most popular sandwich filling really is. Here’s a breakdown of the vote:

  1. Cucumber sandwich 34%

  2. Coronation chicken 16%

  3. Smoked salmon 26%

  4. Egg Mayonnaise 24%

2C49524C-0B85-4163-8C18-CD6C79A0C48D.jpeg


Cucumber topped the poll as a clear winner as the most popular filling. It’s not surprising as cucumber sandwiches are normally associated as being quintessentially British and tourists coming to London love to try an English cucumber sandwich.

Interestingly the top 4 are all red-meat free. Vegetarian and vegan afternoon teas are becoming much more popular in London with most of the larger hotels being able to cater to almost every dietary requirement. 


While we are waiting patiently to go back to tea rooms and hotels to enjoy afternoon tea with friends, you can create your own at home. Here’s one of my favourite cucumber sandwiches recipes which you can enjoy with a refreshing cup of earl grey.

Methodology 

Respondents were asked to choose from a shortlist of 7 options on 26th January. The top four were brought forward and votes were taken on 1st February and 154 participants took part.


Eileen Donaghey