As a pair of eager explorers of exquisite British traditions (and baked goods), my sandwich-loving brother and I recently had the pleasure of indulging in the epitome of elegance with a Best of British Afternoon Tea at The Egerton House Hotel in the heart of Knightsbridge. This quintessentially British experience immersed us in a charming ambiance of luxury, where the delicate clinking of teacups harmonised with the gentle hum of contented chatter. Our taste buds were prepared for a delightful journey as we were presented with an array of teas and an enticing assortment of British pastries – all served to us by the most thoughtful and attentive staff.
We began our tea journey by selecting from an impressive array of teas sourced by JING, each a testament to the artistry and expertise that defines the modern tea ceremony. Green, oolong, white, and black teas, along with herbal infusions, showcased the rich tapestry of flavors that the world of tea has to offer. The Jade Sword green tea from Guizhou, China, stood out with its clean, rounded flavor and refreshing texture, a testament to the connoisseurship of the East that has delighted tea enthusiasts for centuries.
Pairing our chosen teas with carefully curated sandwiches and pastries, our taste buds were sent on a delightful adventure. Opting for the Traditional Afternoon Tea, we savored freshly cut sandwiches featuring H Forman and Son smoked salmon, free-range egg mayonnaise, roast ham with English mustard, cucumber with cream cheese, and coronation chicken. The flavors and textures were perfectly balanced, a testament to the craftsmanship of the culinary team.
The highlight of the afternoon was the array of British pastries that graced our table: the classic Battenberg cake, rich chocolate tart, and coffee and walnut cake. Each bite was a celebration of British flavors, invoking nostalgia and appreciation for time-honored recipes. The Teacup Eton Mess, a delightful combination of meringue, creme patisserie, vanilla Chantilly cream, and marinated strawberries, was a sweet symphony of textures and tastes that left us longing for more.
For those with dietary preferences, The Egerton House Hotel offers a thoughtful selection of Vegan, Vegetarian, and Gluten-Free alternatives, ensuring that all guests can partake in this quintessential British experience. The attention to detail and consideration for diverse tastes is truly commendable.
To complete our journey, we couldn’t resist the allure of the unique cocktails on offer. The Shaken Martinis, brimming with passion fruit, lychee, pomegranate, and cherry, were a burst of vibrant flavors, while the Lyre’s Negroni, a non-alcoholic alternative, was a perfect choice for a newly pregnant me.
The Best of British Afternoon Tea at the Egerton House Hotel truly is a must for foodies seeking an authentic British tea experience in the heart of London. The thoughtfully curated tea selection, the delightful array of sandwiches and pastries, freshly baked scones and the charming ambiance made this a memorable outing of pleasing pomp.
I can’t wait to return with my beloved little pup next month for the hotel’s renowned Doggy Afternoon Tea. Complete with baked goods for humans and dogs, this very special tea includes a professional artist present to draw a perfect Paw-trait of your gorgeous pooch. I will reveal all in an upcoming review….
