Afternoon Tea at The Berkeley: Fashion, Flavour, and Flair
Afternoon Tea at The Berkeley is not your traditional affair. Here, patisserie meets runway in an experience known as Prêt-à-Portea, a playful, high-fashion take on the British tea tradition. This is a destination for those who appreciate fine detail, bold creativity, and a little glamour with their cake stand.
The Prêt-à-Portea Concept
Served in the light-filled Collins Room, The Berkeley’s Afternoon Tea reinterprets the latest season’s fashion collections as edible couture. The menu changes every six months in line with the fashion calendar, meaning guests can enjoy treats inspired by the latest designs from houses such as Prada, Fendi, and Balenciaga.
The inspiration behind each pastry is carefully chosen, not just for visual appeal but also for its translation into flavour and texture. Expect to see biscuits shaped like handbags, cakes glazed to match fabric patterns, and confections that mirror silhouettes from the catwalk.
A Runway of Sweets and Savouries
The experience begins with a selection of savoury navettes, delicate finger sandwiches made with precision and care. Fillings vary with the season but often include classics like smoked salmon and cream cheese, coronation chicken, and egg with truffle mayonnaise.
This is followed by the centrepiece: the cake stand of fashion-forward sweets. Highlights have included the Red Apple and Passion Fruit Entremet, a glossy, mirror-finished dome packed with tropical sharpness, and the Grapefruit Pavlova, which balances crisp meringue with soft citrus mousse. Guests may also enjoy items like the Peanut Cookie or a miniature handbag-shaped choux bun, all themed around designer looks of the season.
The Tea and Champagne Selection
Complementing the food is a carefully curated tea list, featuring both traditional and rare blends. Options range from Earl Grey and Darjeeling to more contemporary choices such as green teas with yuzu or white teas with floral notes. Those wishing to upgrade their experience can enjoy a glass of Laurent-Perrier champagne, or even explore a tea and cocktail pairing.
Who It’s For
Prêt-à-Portea is designed for those who appreciate both fashion and flavour. It’s particularly popular with stylish friends enjoying a day out, couples marking a special occasion, or visitors to London seeking an Afternoon Tea with personality. Its playful nature also makes it suitable for birthday celebrations or luxury gifting experiences.
The chic interiors of the Collins Room, complete with marble tables and soft-toned upholstery, enhance the sense of occasion while keeping the atmosphere relaxed and contemporary.
Availability and Booking
Afternoon Tea is served daily, with sittings throughout the afternoon. Menus update biannually in spring/summer and autumn/winter, reflecting changes in the global fashion scene. Advance booking is essential due to high demand, especially during London Fashion Week and festive seasons.
Address :
Wilton Place, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7RL, United Kingdom
Opening Hours :
Daily
12:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Reviews
The Prêt-à-Portea afternoon tea at The Berkeley is a delightful fusion of fashion and flavor. Each pastry is inspired by the latest designer collections, making it a visual and culinary treat.
An unforgettable experience! The attention to detail in the presentation and the quality of the teas and treats were exceptional. The staff were attentive and made our visit special.
The Collins Room provides a serene setting for afternoon tea. The sandwiches were fresh, and the pastries were both creative and delicious. Highly recommended for a luxurious tea experience.
A unique twist on traditional afternoon tea. The fashion-themed pastries are not only beautiful but also delectable. A must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in a stylish tea experience.
The Berkeley's afternoon tea is a perfect blend of elegance and creativity. The seasonal themes keep the experience fresh, and the quality of the food and service is consistently high.
The Lane
Enjoy a regal Afternoon Tea at The Lanesborough, inspired by Bridgerton and served in The Lanesborough Grill. Expect elegant finger sandwiches, warm scones, and character-themed pastries, all paired with fine teas or themed cocktails. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and children’s options available. A luxurious, theatrical experience perfect for fans and traditional tea lovers alike.
The Palm Court
Celebrate the holiday season with a luxurious Festive Afternoon Tea at The Palm Court, blending British tradition with seasonal flavours in a glamorous Art Deco setting. Enjoy savoury treats like roast turkey & cranberry brioche and egg & truffle sandwiches, alongside warm cranberry scones and Christmas-inspired pastries such as gingerbread choux and mulled wine macarons.
Pair with festive teas or Champagne upgrades. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus available. A magical Christmas afternoon tea experience in Mayfair’s iconic setting.
The Ampersand Hotel
Inspired by The Science Museum, The Science Afternoon Tea at The Ampersand Hotel offers a fun, interactive twist on tradition. The menu features planet-shaped cakes, petri dish desserts, and “volcanic” scones, making it perfect for families and science lovers.
Guests enjoy savoury bites, chocolate dinosaur eggs with raspberry mousse, and a smoky dry ice cocktail. A selection of specialty loose-leaf teas is available. Vegetarian and gluten-free options can be requested. Served daily from 12:30 pm – 6:30 pm. Advance reservations recommended.
The Savoy
Experience iconic British elegance with Afternoon Tea at The Savoy, served in the stunning Thames Foyer under a glass-domed ceiling, accompanied by a live pianist. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream, and exquisite pâtisserie, all handcrafted by The Savoy’s world-class chefs.
With premium loose-leaf teas and Champagne upgrades available, this is London’s most refined afternoon tea experience, perfect for special occasions, visitors, and tea connoisseurs alike. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
Queens of Mayfair
For an elegant yet modern afternoon tea, Queens of Mayfair offers a boutique-style experience in one of London’s most exclusive districts. Known for its artisanal produce, exquisite patisserie, and specialty coffee, this intimate venue provides a refined take on British tradition.
Enjoy gourmet savouries, buttermilk scones with house-made preserves, and beautifully crafted desserts, including pistachio éclairs and signature macarons. Pair with luxury teas, single-origin coffee, or Champagne. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. A sophisticated and artisanal afternoon tea in Mayfair.
Ladurée Covent Garden
Experience a Parisian-inspired afternoon tea at Ladurée Covent Garden, blending French elegance with British tradition. Set in Covent Garden Piazza, enjoy savoury delights like smoked salmon brioche and Brie & truffle on sourdough, followed by buttery scones with Ladurée preserves. Indulge in signature pastries, including the Mini Ispahan and chocolate éclair, alongside world-famous macarons.
Pair with premium teas or upgrade to a Champagne Afternoon Tea. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus available. A chic, luxurious treat in London’s most vibrant setting.
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