Glasgow: Kentuck-Tea, A twist on afternoon tea

If you’re looking for a way to spice up your afternoon in Glasgow, the Kentuck-Tea at Van Winkle offers an intriguing blend of classic British tradition with a southern twist. This experience promises a delightful mix of savory bites, sweet treats, and Kentucky-inspired flavors—all set in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. With a reputation for quality, attentiveness, and creative cuisine, it’s a charming way to spend an hour indulging your taste buds.

What we really love about this experience is how seamlessly it balances the familiar elegance of traditional afternoon tea with unexpected flavors like bourbon cream and spicy dips. Plus, the fact that it’s a private group means you get personalized attention, making it feel like a special treat rather than just another touristy activity. That said, the price point of around $30 per person is quite reasonable considering the quality and uniqueness of the offerings. One thing to consider is that the experience lasts about an hour—so if you’re craving a longer, more leisurely session, you’ll need to look elsewhere. This tour is perfect for those curious to try something different, fans of southern flavors, or anyone wanting a memorable and Instagram-worthy snack in Glasgow.

Key Points

• Unique blend of traditional afternoon tea with Kentucky-inspired flavors.
• Affordable at $30 per person, offering good value for the quality.
• Delightful savory and sweet bites paired with beverages.
• Personalized experience with friendly staff in a private group setting.
• Ideal for those seeking a different take on afternoon tea or a quick, flavorful indulgence.
• Accessible with wheelchair-friendly facilities and flexible booking options.

What Is the Kentuck-Tea Experience at Van Winkle?

This isn’t your average afternoon tea. At Van Winkle, the Kentuck-Tea elevates the classic British tradition with a Southern flair, inspired by Kentucky’s famous flavors. It’s a one-hour tasting session that combines well-crafted food, warm hospitality, and a laid-back, inviting atmosphere. The menu features both savory bites and sweet delights, each thoughtfully paired with dips or toppings that enhance their flavors.

The experience is designed to be a gourmet snapshot of Kentucky’s comforting and bold tastes, cleverly incorporated into familiar treats. Whether you’re a longtime fan of bourbon or just curious about how these flavors translate into food, it’s a satisfying way to explore something new without leaving Glasgow.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting opposite the iconic Barrowland Ballroom, the tour begins at the Van Winkle BBQ Grill, where you’ll meet your host. The entire tasting takes place at Van Winkle’s Barrowlands location, making it super convenient and intimate. After the 60-minute session, you’ll return to the same spot, allowing for a relaxed, stress-free experience.

While there are only a couple of stops, what makes this experience stand out is the quality and thoughtfulness of the food. You’ll be greeted with a menu that combines familiar ingredients like halloumi, chicken, and mac and cheese with Kentucky-inspired twists—think bourbon-infused sweets and spicy dips.

The Savory Bites: A Closer Look

The savory selection is designed to satisfy various tastes and dietary preferences. Expect Halloumi Bites served with a sweet chili dip—offering a salty-cheesy hit balanced by a touch of heat. The Chicken Bites are tailored to your preferred spice level, with options like BBQ, Buffalo, or Hot Sauce, giving each bite a different personality.

Mac and Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food, with a chili jam dip adding a sweet and spicy layer. Vegetarians aren’t left out—Cauliflower Bites with buffalo sauce provide a tangy, veggie-friendly alternative. For something more substantial, Mini BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches pay homage to Southern barbecue traditions, slow-cooked and bursting with smoky flavor. The Mini Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwiches are a fun, bite-sized take on a classic.

Why We Love the Savory Options

One reviewer, Fraser, mentioned how attentive and friendly the staff are, which makes the whole experience even more enjoyable. The bites are well-balanced, with sauces and dips playing crucial roles in amplifying flavors, making each piece memorable.

The Sweet Delights: A Dessert Lover’s Dream

No afternoon tea is complete without sweets, and here you’ll find Brownie Bites topped with bourbon cream—rich, fudgy, and decadently infused with Kentucky’s signature spirit. The Mini Sweet Belgium Waffles are an indulgent finish, with bourbon cream and toffee drizzles adding an extra layer of luxury.

Guests have praised the quality of these treats, with one reviewer noting the bourbon-infused sweets as “delicious” and the staff as “very friendly.” The combination of desserts not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a glimpse into how bourbon can be incorporated into everyday desserts for a sophisticated twist.

Beverages & Extras

The included drinks—filter tea and coffee—are simple but well-chosen to complement the flavors. If you want to enhance your experience further, the venue offers a range of bourbons, beers, cocktails, and wines available for purchase, giving you the chance to extend your tasting journey.

The experience emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and genuine hospitality, creating a welcoming environment. The staff, praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, make sure everyone feels comfortable, especially if you have specific dietary needs or preferences.

Practical Details & Booking

This tour is designed for private groups, making it perfect for special occasions or just a more intimate outing. It’s accessible for wheelchair users, and you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change. Cancelling up to 24 hours in advance guarantees a full refund, providing peace of mind.

Starting opposite the Barrowland Ballroom, the experience is straightforward to find and involves no complicated logistics. With a duration of just one hour, it’s ideal for fitting into a busy itinerary or as a quick yet satisfying break from sightseeing.

Authentic Insights from Past Guests

Reviews consistently highlight the friendly staff and delicious food. Fraser described the experience as “Loved the food and staff were very friendly and attentive,” emphasizing the warm, welcoming environment. Another guest appreciated the flavor combinations, noting that the experience was “a delightful combination of flavors accompanied with a delicious bourbon (extra cost).”

These comments suggest that the experience not only delivers on taste but also on personal service, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a genuine encounter with Kentucky-inspired hospitality.

Who Will Love This?

This experience appeals most to food lovers eager to try inventive flavor combinations, culture seekers with an interest in Southern cuisine, or those wanting a quick, memorable activity during their trip. It’s also excellent for travelers who appreciate private, relaxed settings and friendly service. If you’re after a fun, flavorful, and reasonably priced experience that’s both different and comforting, the Kentuck-Tea at Van Winkle should be on your list.

Final Thoughts

The Kentuck-Tea at Van Winkle offers a surprisingly delightful twist on the traditional afternoon tea. Combining Southern comfort foods, Kentucky-inspired sweets, and friendly hospitality, it creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for a quick escape into new flavors. The menu is thoughtfully curated, with each dish crafted to leave a lasting impression, especially for those who enjoy a hint of bourbon or spicy dips.

At around $30 per person, the experience provides solid value—especially given the quality of ingredients and personalized service. The duration makes it an easy addition to any Glasgow itinerary, and its private setting ensures a relaxed, intimate vibe.

In sum, if you’re after an authentic, flavorful, and fun tasting experience that’s a little different from the usual afternoon tea, the Kentuck-Tea is well worth trying. Whether you’re a bourbon fan, a foodie, or simply curious about blending culinary traditions, this tour offers a satisfying and memorable glimpse into Kentucky flavors right in Glasgow.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, there are vegetarian options like the Cauliflower Bites with buffalo sauce. You can check specific dietary needs when booking.

How long does the tour last?
The tasting lasts about one hour, making it a quick but fulfilling activity.

Can I book this experience in advance?
Absolutely. You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the tasting.

What drinks are included?
The included beverages are filter tea and coffee. Additional drinks like bourbon, beer, cocktails, and wine are available for purchase.

Where does the experience start and end?
It begins opposite the Barrowland Ballroom at Van Winkle and ends back at the same location, making the logistics straightforward.

This tour offers a fun, flavorful way to experience Glasgow’s culinary scene with a unique Kentucky twist. It’s perfect for those wanting a quick, authentic taste adventure, with friendly hosts and delicious food making it a memorable highlight of any trip.