I couldn’t spend my first few days in London without having high tea! Between the trips to John Lewis and trying to figure out how to work an eco-friendly washer and dryer, I decided I needed a treat. A few weeks ago I decided to book afternoon tea at one of London’s most famous and historic spots, Claridge’s Hotel.

Upon arrival, it was a luxurious experience. The chandeliers and huge fresh flower displays were exquisite and each server and manager was dressed to the nines. I sat down at the table and was given the menu filled with the details of the deliciousness to come.

Tea first started with the champagne course and enjoyed a French Brut. As you finish, you move to order two teas to accompany the savory sandwich course.  The Earl Grey has been brewed in the same place since the last 1300s! Both were delicious and a perfect start to the course. The sandwiches were divine – there were 5 tea sandwich types: smoked salmon, cucumber, ham and mustard, coronation chicken, and egg salad. My personal favorite was the coloration chicken, a curried chicken salad. The seasonal savory was a cheddar crusted vegetable quiche which was also delicious.

Following the savory course, I moved on to the scones and pastries. Two types of warm scones arrived first – plain and raisin, These we accompanied by clotted cream and berry jam. Delicious!! The sweets were the final treat of the day, emmaculately presented with touches of edible gold flakes. My favorite was the hazelnut chocolate mousse. The other treats included a lemon cheesecake, a chocolate coffee cake, a fig filled tart with marscepone cheese. I also ordered two more teas to try- a spearmint tea and a light, herbal infusion tea. A refreshing way to end the experience!

The last was a surprise “welcome to London” treat presented to me by  the attentive waitstaff who I told about my recent move to London. The ‘Welcome” was alongside a strawberry shortcake and chocolate peanut crunch bar. I was stuffed but happily squeezed in a few more bites for these decadent treats!

Claridge’s lives up to the hype and is well-deserving of the recognition it receives. From the food and tea to the live cello and piano to the exclusively customized china, everything as flawless. If you are planning a trip to London, remember to book your reservation at least 30-60 days in advance! It’s well worth the planning and price tag. I cannot wait to go back!!

-MAL