There’s a certain charm to the quintessentially British tradition of afternoon tea. It’s a chance to unwind amidst the day’s goings, indulge in a selection of bite-sized sweet and savoury treats, and enjoy some perfectly brewed tea. Recently, I embarked on such an afternoon at DUKES London, a hidden gem nestled in London’s prestigious district.
Welcome to the Drawing Room
DUKES London is more than just a hotel; it’s an experience. Tucked away on a quiet street, just steps from the vibrant West End, the townhouse hotel exudes a timelessness. The Drawing Room, where afternoon tea is served, captures this perfectly. Bathed in natural light, the space is adorned with plush armchairs, crisp white tablecloths, and fresh flowers, creating a cosy hideaway amidst the city’s energy.
Afternoon tea savoury delights
The afternoon tea menu at DUKES London is a meticulously curated affair, designed to give you a taste of everything. The first course, a selection of savouries, sets the tone for the experience. A highlight was the beetroot and goat’s cheese cone, a delightful marriage of earthy beetroot and creamy goat’s cheese presented in a charmingly whimsical mini cone. Other items included a leek and cheddar cheese muffin with fig relish and a delightful truffled egg sandwich.
The Scone: An undisputed champion
But let’s be honest, no afternoon tea is complete without scones. And at Dukes Mayfair, the scones are the stars of the show! Freshly baked and bursting with comfort and flavour, they arrive warm and golden brown, the perfect canvas for the accompaniments. However, Dukes goes beyond the traditional clotted cream and jam. They offer salted vanilla butter and honey creme, allowing you to tailor your experience. I particularly enjoyed the tangy salted vanilla butter, which I found complementary to the richness of the scones.
A journey of teas
Afternoon tea wouldn’t be complete without a selection of high-end teas. Dukes Mayfair boasts a diverse collection sourced from The East India Company, a testament to their commitment to quality. As a tea enthusiast, I appreciated the detailed descriptions provided by the knowledgeable staff, allowing me to have a personalised tea experience. From the robust Assam to the delicate floral notes of the Darjeeling, each cup was delightful and relaxing.
Unforgettable sweet treats
To conclude the afternoon, you are presented with a selection of sweet treats. I recommend starting with the lighter, fruitier items such as the lemon, coconut, and basil and strawberry pavlova so as not to overwhelm your palette and appetite. Then, indulge in the heavier treats like the poured chocolate tart and the sticky date cake.
The Traditional Afternoon tea is available at DUKES London between 12 noon and 6 pm for £65 per head.
DUKES London
35 St James’s Place
London, SW1A 1NY
United Kingdom
