Camelia

Camelia is the afternoon tea and coffee lounge inside the Waldorf Astoria at Al Hamra, set off the main lobby in a palatial double-height space of marble, crystal chandeliers and a grand piano that plays live most afternoons. It's the quietest of the hotel's dining outlets - built for conversation, long coffees and unhurried catch-ups rather than full meals. The programme centres on afternoon tea, served as a tiered tower of pastries, scones and savouries with a serious selection of loose-leaf teas. An espresso-and-specialty-coffee side of the menu runs through the day, and the kitchen will prepare Arabic coffee with saffron and cardamom on request - a touch regulars note. Light bites and sharing plates support the tea service for those wanting something more substantial; this is not the room for a full dinner. The service is understated and exactly as polished as the setting requires. The tea team is personable, remembers repeat guests, and is genuinely warm with children visiting with family - a real gap on other luxury lounges in the region. Pair a visit with a spa appointment or a sunset walk through the gardens, come in smart-casual dress, and plan on an hour or two of real calm.