Claridge's Afternoon Tea

Claridge's is simply the epitome of London luxury Afternoon Tea. Every aspect is presented with a grace and style that many hotels attempt to emulate but don't quite achieve - the mark of 150 years of practice.

"Set in the splendour of Thierry Despont’s magnificent Foyer, inspired by the 1930s’ heyday of art deco" the surrounds are beautiful, and nothing quite beats the soft tinkle of tea cups, soft jazz and tea chatter of an afternoon.

We were luckily enough last year to score a set of reservations (they are as rare as hen's teeth) through the gluten free afternoon tea queen Kelly - the lucky so and so had managed to score herself an accidental double booking. Unluckily I had contracted a lurgy, but nothing was going to stop me going.

Where to begin... how about with a cheesy grin, a pinky-raise and a wee plate of sandwiches? Perfect for fighting the flu.

Freshly baked scones with Marco Polo jelly and Cornish Clotted cream...

His n' hers (or gluten and gluten-free) patisserie.

From the moment we stepped foot in Claridge's to leaving, we were treated wonderfully. Our waiter was perfectly attentive - he didn't allow us to even lift the teapot, plate after plate of their trademark delectations were placed on our table and he even offered to take a photo of Mr Kiwi and I (being kind enough to take a couple of different angles until the photo was to his satisfaction, bless!).

As far as luxury afternoon teas go, Claridge's became been the standard I judge all others by, and it is worth the 5-star price tag without a doubt. Their patisserie chefs have proudly worked hard on ever single aspect - and it shows especially in the gluten-free options which can be really difficult to get tasty. Just look as those crumble free scones...

Our highlights of the tea tray were the citrus tart (Mr Kiwi) and an insanely moreish chocolate mousse (me, gluten free) and the gluten free sandwiches which were light and scrumptious.

 

My only two minor disappointments were entirely self-caused; not taking my camera to take better photos - I didn't want to be obtrusive to the other guests, and struggling to find the words for blogging about it until now.

Exit stage right with the obligatory exit foot selfie...

Would I revisit? In a heartbeat - even if I was dying with the flu again!