Through a Dickensian alleyway just off London’s Green Park is the Stafford London. A charming and historic establishment dating back to the turn of the last century. I’m here to sample the hotel’s new afternoon tea menu. The rain pours outside, however, nothing but warm smiles and cosy welcomes to see in the afternoon as we enter this glamorous place.
Food and Drink at Afternoon Tea at The Stafford London
The afternoon tea at the Stafford London takes place in the Game Bird lounge, a contemporary and informal room bringing a sense of elegance and relaxation to our day. We are waited on hand and foot, greetings from each of the staff here and before we had a chance to launch into a long, overdue catch-up, a champagne trolley headed our way with all kinds of delicious options. We opt for the rose champagne, to try and fool ourselves that it is still summer and not the torrential rain that pitter-patters against the sash windows.
Next, a tea menu which is as extensive as it is exclusive. Lots of unique teas from around the globe to tantalise those taste buds. I start my afternoon with a peach jasmine tea, my guest a classic English breakfast – well, we are in a place where British royalty used to reside after all.
We are then talked through the sandwiches and cakes. The menu has been choreographed together by Chef, Jozef Rogulski and Lisa Goodwin-Allen, the Michelin-Starred Executive Chef to create a mouth-watering masterpiece. The truffled egg mayo on a brioche bun has us asking for seconds and the coronation chicken, a take on an afternoon tea classic, which balances sticky savoury with a tangy sweet taste. We are giddy.
A nice break in between courses is always welcomed in my book but as soon as I see the china tower heading my way from the kitchen I’m utterly delighted at the array of colours and creations before me. We move on to the cakes, a white chocolate mousse filled with delicate cream. The pistachio macaron is a stand out for both of us as is the decadent and rather deliciously rich coffee choux pastry. However, I’m always such a fan of the classic scones and these ones did not disappoint, warm from the oven, the cream almost melting into it as I heap it on generously. And, say what you will, the cream always goes on first in my opinion.
We drink more teas, this time of the chai variety and sit for what felt like hours, nibbling on cakes and not coming up for air. We wave goodbye to the softness of the afternoon and the Stafford London. Thankfully, we are greeted by blue skies for our decent home. A glorious afternoon was had by all.
Afternoon teas at the Stafford London run from 12pm – 17:30pm in The Game Bird.
The Stafford London
16-18 St James’s Place
St. James’s
London
SW1A 1NJ
United Kingdom
