As we prepare for the highly anticipated coronation of King Charles on May 6th, The Chelsea Harbour Hotel is joining in on the festivities by offering a regal treat for its guests. The luxurious riverside hotel, nestled in the heart of one of London’s most prestigious areas, has crafted a special edition ‘King’s Tipple Afternoon Tea’ menu to mark this historic event. Available from April 29th to May 11th, this delectable spread is a fitting tribute to the monarch and an indulgent experience that should not be missed.
Under the expert guidance of Head Chef Rohan Mehta, The Chelsea Harbour Hotel has curated an exquisite menu that blends traditional English afternoon tea staples with contemporary culinary twists. Guests are welcomed to the hotel’s elegant restaurant with a breathtaking view of the harbour, providing a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Luckily the day we visited was gloriously sunny so we had the chance to feast on the scenic outdoor terrace.
The ‘King’s Tipple Afternoon Tea’ begins with a choice of a mini-Classic Coronation cocktail aperitif or a glass of fizz to set the tone for the royal feast that follows. My wife and I opted for a bottle of Moet for an extra celebratory touch. A mouth-watering selection of savoury sandwiches accompanied the beverages, showcasing a diverse range of flavours and textures. Cucumber and mint cream cheese on brown bread presented a refreshingly British palate cleanser, while the coronation chicken with toasted almonds on a mini brioche roll was a gracious nod to the event itself. Our favourite was the egg mayonnaise on fluffy basil infused bread.
I asked for my sandwiches to be made on sourdough bread which was no problem at all to the kitchen staff. We were bowled over by the warm, attentive and professional service from all staff members that we came across.
No English afternoon tea would be complete without scones, and the ‘King’s Tipple Tea’ does not disappoint. The in-house bakery provides warm, fluffy raisin and plain scones that melt in your mouth, served with strawberry preserve and clotted cream.
The pièce de résistance of the ‘King’s Tipple Tea’ is the sensational assortment of sweet treats, a testament to the hotel’s commitment to providing a truly indulgent experience. The berry and fig tart, topped with a delicate spring berry anglaise, adds a touch of seasonal freshness to the spread. Choux Au Craquelin Valhrona showcases a harmonious blend of chocolate and pistachio flavours, while the lemon Verbena cake offers a zesty, citrusy surprise.
Semolina cake with passion fruit curd provides a tropical twist, and the blueberry cheesecake is a delightful addition for those who adore this classic dessert. Finally, the Turkish delight macaron adds an exotic flair, rounding off the sweet selection with a touch of the Middle East. We loved the regal crown shaped cakes which were almost too Instagramable to eat…
This limited-time offering is more than just an afternoon tea – it’s an opportunity to be part of history in the making. With the nation’s eyes fixed on the coronation, the ‘King’s Tipple Afternoon Tea’ serves as a reminder of the rich cultural traditions that have long been associated with the British monarchy. As you sip on your Coronation cocktail or savour the delicate flavours of the sweet and savoury treats, you are not just indulging your taste buds – you are participating in a celebration that transcends time and unites generations. We can’t think of a better excuse to gorge on champagne, sandwiches and fine baked goods.
