The Ritz might have celebrated its centenary in 2006, but London’s most famous hotel still delivers a quintessentially British experience for the most quintessential of British pastimes.

The Venue
The Ritz’s grand entrance sets the tone as you are greeted by some of the finest concierge staff in the world (with HRH Prince of Wales royal warrant to bag). The main event takes place in the spectacular surroundings of the Palm Court with its Louis XV chandeliers, decadent gold detailing on the walls and opulent marbles. Traditional tables with some nice Gainsborough-style chairs add to the overall splendor.

The Atmosphere
Everyone is here for one reason only, to sample the great British institution of afternoon tea. Due to the no jeans and trainers policy all guests are smartly dressed from little girls in frilly dresses to distinguished gentlemen with the three-piece suits. This doesn’t detract from the relaxing ambiance though, and there’s a low buzz of people simply focusing on having a good time in a quite sedate environment.

The Food
Afternoon tea at the Ritz is so popular that there are three sittings, but at a price of around £36.00 per person you do receive great value for money. Firstly there’s a stunning all silver three tier cake stand which is crammed with all kinds of goodies, including a full bottom tier with beautiful sandwiches using the freshest bread on the day. Fillings include classics such as smoked salmon, egg mayonnaise with cress, chicken and mayonnaise and cucumber with cream cheese.

The next tier up is chock-a-block with warm and exceedingly fresh raisin and apple scones served with Devonshire clotted cream, fruits of the forest compote and organic strawberry preserve. Finally the top tier is piled high with indulgent cream cakes and patisseries like coffee eclairs, chocolate millefeuilles and mini fruit tarts. At Christmas the Ritz becomes a magical winter wonderland with a spectacular Christmas tree taking pride of place in the lobby and cascades of lights hanging from the rotundas above. The menu features some sumptuous homemade mince pies and Christmas cake. To avoid disappointment, reservations especially at the weekend are essential.

The Drink
Even the tea is served from a decadent Royal Worcester set and there’s a constant liquid replenishment whenever the cup becomes empty. Choose from an extensive selection which features some exotic infusions including the Darjeeling First Flush, Russian Caravan, a blend of China, Formosa & Darjeeling leafs and a light and gentle Rose Congou, which is a Chinese black tea from the Guangdong province enriched with rose petals and flavored with rose aroma. There’s also a rich Ritz own blend filter coffee to choose from.

The Last Word
The Ritz Afternoon tea is truly an unforgettable experience and opulent in every sense of the word.

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