I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the renowned afternoon tea at Intercontinental London Park Lane, which truly is an experience like no other. The regal ambiance from their Wellington Lounge is the perfect setting for a lovely afternoon! The venue exudes elegance and sophistication, setting the perfect stage for the stunning seasonal afternoon teas they bring us throughout the year. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, it offers the perfect backdrop for indulging in the time-honored tradition of afternoon tea at Intercontinental London Park Lane.
The afternoon tea at Intercontinental London Park Lane is a true testament to the hotel’s commitment to excellence. The extensive menu, carefully curated in collaboration with the East India Company, offers a selection of teas that perfectly complement the array of delectable dishes available.
I had the chance to try their summer special this time: The Scents of Summer Afternoon Tea. It is a unique offering at Intercontinental London Park Lane, clearly showcasing the culinary expertise of the hotel’s team. This collaboration with Yardley of London elevates the afternoon tea experience at the hotel to new heights. The dishes were inspired by fragrance profiles! So, this truly is a sensory journey like no other, indulging in rich flavors as we discover the fresh and delicate scents of English flowers! From chilled green peas and chives bisque to lavender-smoked halibut rillettes, every bite was a testament to the culinary creativity that afternoon tea at Intercontinental London Park Lane offers.
The savories collection at their afternoon tea is a delightful and creative medley of flavors and textures. There are two options for this new menu, the standard and vegetarian. We decided to go for the standard! Each bite is a culinary adventure, starting with the chilled young green peas and chives bisque. Moving on, the Spiced Royal Gala apple takes center stage, accompanied by a vibrant green kohlrabi slaw and a velvety smoked aubergine purée. The combination of sweet and smoky flavors creates a harmonious balance. For meat lovers, the grilled wagyu beef steals the show, paired with organic asparagus, radish, and a tangy Yorkshire onion chutney. The tender wagyu beef melts in the mouth, while the accompaniments add a delightful crunch and tangy kick. The lavender-smoked halibut rillettes offer a delicate seafood option, enhanced by the cream cheese and smoked tomato relish. Finally, the slow-roasted Jerusalem artichoke, English peach, watercress, and honeyberry aioli create a symphony of flavors, combining earthy and fruity notes with a hint of sweetness.
The cakes and pastries at afternoon tea at Intercontinental London Park Lane are miniature works of art. From the blueberry and English lavender éclair to the cherry blossom-poached peach tart, each confection is meticulously crafted to perfection. The flavors and presentation of these delectable treats showcase the attention to detail that sets afternoon tea at Intercontinental London Park Lane apart.
Of course, no mention of afternoon tea at Intercontinental London Park Lane would be complete without highlighting the scones and delightful assortment of cakes and pastries. Their classic plain and Mandarin orange scones are a testament to the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Accompanied by Madagascan vanilla and British berries jam and Cornish clotted cream, they are a true delight.
Beyond the culinary delights, the overall experience of afternoon tea at Intercontinental Park Lane is enhanced by the attentive service and live music that fills the Wellington Lounge. The live music, from 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm on Wednesdays through Sundays, creates a soothing ambiance that complements the indulgent feast. It’s these little touches that make afternoon tea at Intercontinental London Park Lane an unforgettable experience.
In conclusion, their afternoon tea is a truly exceptional culinary experience. The Wellington Lounge offers an inviting and elegant setting. The carefully curated menu, the collaboration with Yardley of London for their summer special, and the impeccable service all contribute to making afternoon tea at Intercontinental London Park Lane a must-try experience in London. What’s more, you will also receive Yardley London’s modern classic English Lavender Eau de Toilette (50ml) and a set of the brand’s Contemporary Range Eau de Toilette vials when visiting. So, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the timeless tradition of afternoon tea, Intercontinental London Park Lane is the place to be.
