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💡 TLDR
No but seriously, London’s afternoon tea scene is literally a scam. I’ve been sipping on these things for four years, and let me tell you—most of them are just a fancy way of charging you £200 for sog…
No but seriously, London’s afternoon tea scene is literally a scam. I’ve been sipping on these things for four years, and let me tell you—most of them are just a fancy way of charging you £200 for soggy scones and pastries that make you question your life choices. But hey, there are still a few gems hiding in the chaos. Think of it like a TikTok trend: some people are doing it right, and you’re supposed to follow their lead.
First up: the tea room above Bread Ahead in Chelsea. It’s like a cozy secret you’re not supposed to know about. Warm lighting, teal couches, and pillows that scream “I’ve been in a William Morris print.” Order the rose pouchong and dive into mini rolls with smoked salmon, coronation chicken, and Burford brown egg mayonnaise. The scones? Warm, fluffy, and slathered in jam and clotted cream. It’s all baked to perfection and costs less than half of what you’d pay elsewhere. From £35.
Next, the brasserie in St James’s—think Parisian vibes with a London twist. Start with jambon beurre, vadouvan chicken, and oeufs mimosa, then melt into a hazelnut choux or a vanilla babka. The sandwiches are generous, the pastries sublime, and the whole thing feels like a date with your future self. From £35.
The Dorchester’s Promenade is where the sandwiches finally get their due. Dorrington ham with truffle and parmesan? Yes, please. The scones are delightful, the desserts are a feast, and the ambiance is so lush you’ll forget you’re paying £125.
💫 Imagine a pianist serenading you with “Happy Birthday” while waiters materialize with mini cakes.
And if you’re celebrating something major, The Ritz’s Palm Court is your sign-off. Imagine a pianist serenading you with “Happy Birthday” while waiters materialize with mini cakes. The sandwiches are classic, the scones are fruit-forward, and the tea selection? A royal-level experience. From £81.
Key points: Skip the Instagrammable traps and go for places that prioritize flavor over filters. Opt for tea rooms with warm lighting and baked goods that don’t make you feel guilty. And if you’re celebrating, The Ritz is basically a VIP pass.
So, what’s your go-to afternoon tea spot? Drop your fave in the comments—let’s make this ritual less of a scam and more of a vibe.
❓ People Also Ask
What is the most expensive afternoon tea in London?
The most expensive afternoon tea in London is at The Ritz London, with prices starting at £250 per person, including diamond-shaped scones and vintage champagne.
Where can I find traditional afternoon tea in London?
Traditional afternoon tea can be found at The Savoy Hotel, offering classic British fare like scones, clotted cream, and finger sandwiches in a grand historic setting.
💬 What do you think? Let us know in the comments! 👇