Afternoon Tea at The Ritz: What To Expect
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3 months ago
The city stalwart serves one of London's finest afternoon teas
London is arguably the best destination in the world for afternoon tea, with a string of top-quality offerings to choose from across the city’s hotels. But if you really want the gold standard, a few hotspots rise above the rest – one being The Ritz. One of the capital’s most prestigious hotels, The Ritz’s afternoon tea is legendary, having been served there for over 116 years. Thinking of booking it for a special occasion? Here’s what to expect from the bucket list culinary experience.
The Ritz Afternoon Tea: Menu, Price, Dress Code
Afternoon tea at The Ritz is served within the opulent surroundings of the Palm Court, a beautiful space characterised by its gold decor, gilded ceilings and panelled mirrors. It’s the perfect setting from which to enjoy the British tradition, with an impressive spread of sweet and savoury treats on offer alongside champagne and over 20 types of loose-leaf tea.
Upon arrival, you’ll be presented with a three-tiered stand piled high with finger sandwiches, with a focus on classic fare with seasonal ingredients. At the moment, the menu includes sandwich fillings like Scottish smoked salmon with lemon butter, cheddar cheese and chutney, tarragon chicken, and egg mayonnaise and watercress. Next, some freshly baked scones will arrive at your table, which you can jazz up with Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserve, before getting stuck into the expertly crafted, perfectly sized sweet treats, which draw on nostalgic flavours.
It’s certainly enough to keep you full – but if you do fancy another sandwich or pastry, these can be replenished on request. But don’t go too overboard: there’s the cake trolley too. This tableside service offers diners the chance to pick a slice (or two) of cake from the famed guéridon trolley.
Naturally, tea is a big part of the experience too. The Ritz is the only hotel in the UK with a certified Tea Master, Giandomenico Scanu, who has travelled to plantations around the world to source the finest teas – from the traditional to the quirky. The selection on offer includes a range of special Ritz blends, including a Royal English, Chocolate Delight, and Black Lychee. Guests can also opt for a glass of Barons de Rothschild champagne, or a non-alcoholic alternative.
Like everywhere at The Ritz, you can expect the finest standard of service. And the cherry on the cake? All this is accompanied by music from the hotel’s resident pianist.
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Is There A Children’s Offering?
Planning a family affair? The Ritz has a special offering for children. The children’s afternoon tea menu includes a spread of finger sandwiches and pastries which are are chosen and sized for little diners.
What Is The Dress Code?
It’s important to be aware of The Ritz’s dress code. Men will need to wear a jacket and a tie for afternoon tea in The Palm Court, and ripped jeans, trainers, sportswear and shorts are not permitted in any part of the hotel.
How Much Is Afternoon Tea at The Ritz?
Prices start from £75pp for adults and £53pp for children.
How To Book Afternoon Tea at The Ritz
Afternoon tea is available to book from Monday to Sunday at 11.30am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 7.30pm. You can book online at theritz.com or by calling +44 (0) 20 7300 2345.
