In the heart of Chelsea, the Belmond Cadogan Hotel offers a quietly luxurious take on afternoon tea in its elegant Cadogan Lounge. The experience here blends British refinement with a modern culinary edge, crafted under the guidance of Chef Benoît Blin, one of the UK’s most respected pastry talents.
Setting the Scene: A Refined Chelsea Escape
The Cadogan Lounge provides a calm and intimate space, ideal for relaxed conversation and unhurried indulgence. The décor reflects the hotel’s heritage, with plush seating, refined detailing, and large windows that overlook the private Cadogan Place Gardens. It’s a setting where tradition is respected but never rigid – a comfortable space that invites lingering.
A Modern Take on a Timeless Tradition
The afternoon tea menu features a well-balanced progression of savoury and sweet, with thoughtful updates to classic items. Sandwiches are carefully constructed and imaginative, with highlights including:
Paprika-smoked cornbread with roast chicken and sweetcorn
Cucumber and whipped cream cheese on beetroot bread
Duck egg and truffle on rye
Warm savouries add a further layer of richness and texture – items like wild mushroom tartlets or Welsh rarebit croquettes often make an appearance depending on the season.
Pastry Showcase: Technical Precision Meets Playful Presentation
The patisserie selection is where Chef Blin’s expertise shines. The menu typically features a selection of beautifully presented sweets, such as:
Religieuse choux filled with vanilla diplomat cream
Apricot and thyme tarts with sablé bases
Delicate chocolate délices with citrus or nut elements
Each item is crafted in-house and plated to perfection, offering a balance of familiar comfort and unexpected detail. The visual appeal is undeniable, but the flavours are equally well-considered and not overly sweet.
Warm plain and fruit scones are served with Dorset clotted cream and seasonal preserves add a nod to tradition that completes the sequence beautifully.
Tea Pairings and Alternatives
Guests can choose from a carefully curated list of loose-leaf teas, sourced from around the world. From floral Darjeeling to robust Assam and fragrant oolongs, the selection is designed to complement the menu’s changing flavour profiles. Tea is poured and refreshed with care, and recommendations are readily available for those unsure of their pairing.
Champagne is also available to enhance the experience, ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or celebratory outings.
Who It’s For
The Cadogan Lounge afternoon tea is well suited to couples, small groups, and anyone seeking a quietly indulgent experience in central London. Children are welcome, though there is no formal kids’ menu listed, so advance notice is advised for family bookings.
Booking and Practical Details
Served Daily: 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Price: £80 per person
Booking: Strongly recommended
Location: Belmond Cadogan Hotel, 75 Sloane Street, London SW1X 9SG
Address :
75 Sloane St, Chelsea, London SW1X 9SG
Opening Hours :
Daily
12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Reviews
Afternoon Tea by Benoît Blin showcases fine seasonal produce with a decadent French twist, offering a unique take on the English classic.
The Cadogan Lounge provides a luxurious afternoon tea experience, featuring a selection of finger sandwiches, home-baked scones, and fine teas.
The service was amazing and the staff were so helpful. The afternoon tea comprises a number of sandwiches including coronation chicken, smoked salmon, and egg mayonnaise.
The Cadogan Lounge offers a refined setting for afternoon tea, with a menu that includes a variety of teas and delectable pastries.
Our tea experience was the highlight of our trip; everything from the service to the quality of the food and tea was above expectations.
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