Foodstuff

It may not seem, at first, like the ideal way to escape the ever-escalating heat and humidity, but in my summer-doldrums book, it's high time for high tea. Not the iced variety but the steaming Darjeeling kind, brewed in a pot at Tea at Lily's (3020 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale, 954-565-1144) for those of us who equate cooling down with slowing down. Upstairs from the Lilywhites gift shop (and surrounded by other good shopping opportunities), Lily's offers leisurely little lunches -- quiches, salads, and sandwiches -- served on antique tables covered with flowered linens. But its Old World elegance is best enjoyed at teatime, which runs from about 3 to 5 p.m. Cream tea, featuring sweets and tea, is available daily; high tea, complete with finger sandwiches and miniature scones, requires a reservation 24 hours in advance.