I want to treat myself and my other half to a posh afternoon tea for my upcoming 50th early December, as i’ve never been. I’m a huge foodie so only want something really nice… but i’m not very comfortable in very posh places and i don’t like dressing up… any expert suggestions for something posh with no dress code?
I was thinking Fortnum and Mason?
Thanks.
Fortnum & Mason would work. We dressed nicely as it was Christmas Eve Day. It was nice and elegant but the word posh doesn’t come to mind for our experience. We ordered two food towers for four of us, one savory, one sweet.
The Wolseley.
Mike, I'm forever trotting out the Zetter townhouse in response to this question. No dress code, not very posh. The service was friendly and casual. And the food and tea selection were A+ top-shelf. The décor probably makes it the most quirky place in the town to experience afternoon tea. Best on weekends. Maybe there'll be a wedding there, for added atmospheric value. Ditto an outdoors chess tournament.
Location: Clerkenwell, near St. John's Gate.
I am done. the something different
Thank you all, will check out all suggestions.
Cheers, Mike.
F & M fan here. The day we were there, they had a pianist, which really added to the ambience.
Edited: We have also been to the Wolseley and the staff there was really nice, but it's not the quiet experience that we enjoyed at F&M.
My absolute favorite is Fortnum & Mason Afternoon Tea. I’ve had lots of Afternoon Teas and F&M was by far the best. It’s expensive (€95 pp when we were there) but it was worth every penny. It’s all you can eat and the very highest quality. They serve delicious sandwiches, scones, little cakes, slices from large cakes, the best strawberry jam i’ve ever tasted, etc. It’s a very nice room and ambiance, with a piano player as cala mentioned, and it’s relaxed and friendly. I believe their website says dress should be “business casual” but they aren’t strict about it. As long as you look clean and nice enough you’ll be fine. I can’t wait to go back again some day.
I'd also recommend Fortnum and Mason, but their location at The Royal Exchange. Not outrageously expensive (only £35), and not stuffy, fancy either. Was just there a month ago and enjoyed it very much! There was no dress code, although those partaking were dressed nicely, not like they were going to the gym or anything.
Just so you know, the less expensive afternoon tea prices, under 50 pounds do not include refills of the food like the more expensive ones do. When we go, we make a meal out of it and not just a snack.
The posher places will have a dress code but keep in mind with $1500 Balenciaga trainers everywhere, the dress codes are less enforced.
Sketch is a really fun place for tea.
Thanks again for all the advice.
