Step Inside the Vault: Afternoon Tea at Honey Restaurant, Hotel Gotham Manchester
Hidden behind the bold façade of one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings, Hotel Gotham invites guests to step into a world of 1920s glamour and indulge in a seriously stylish affair: the Lutyens Afternoon Tea. Named in honour of Sir Edwin Lutyens, the building’s original architect, this is not your average tea-and-scones experience—it’s a decadent event crafted for those who appreciate detail, drama, and deliciousness.
A Setting That Tells a Story
Every inch of Honey Restaurant is wrapped in theatrical flair. From the dark polished woods and gold accents to the Art Deco curves and plush leather banquettes, the space exudes old-school luxury. The setting, inspired by the building’s banking past, feels like a well-kept secret shared only among those who know where to look.
Afternoon Tea here isn’t merely served, it’s staged. There’s a deliberate pace, a rhythm that encourages you to slow down and savour.
The Lutyens Afternoon Tea Menu
The journey begins with a tower of sandwiches, each one boasting a flavour profile that’s bold yet balanced:
Chicken with Green Pesto & Rocket – earthy and peppery
Cheddar with Sun-Dried Tomato – rich and slightly tangy
Cucumber with Lemon Mascarpone – fresh with citrus notes
Smoked Salmon with Red Onion Pickle – a nod to classic pairings with a zing
Then comes the main act: the patisserie. Artfully plated and seasonally inspired, expect a line-up of:
A Strawberry & Rosemary Frangipane Tart that walks the line between sweet and herbal
A Pavlova with Pineapple & Mango Salsa that’s as vibrant as it is light
A Passion Fruit & Chocolate Macaron that hits all the right notes
A Plum & Madagascan Vanilla Upside-Down Cake, rich, sticky, comforting
Of course, no afternoon tea would be complete without scones. Gotham serves both plain and sultana, still warm from the oven, alongside proper clotted cream and fruit preserve.
Drinks Fit for High Society
Choose from Planters’ Teas, a collection that includes award-winning blends like:
Earl Grey with real bergamot oil
Planters’ Mistress, a citrus-scented golden tea
Ceylon Afternoon, light and floral
Not a tea drinker? You can opt for Prosecco or Champagne, depending on how celebratory you’re feeling.
The Practical Bits
Price: £39 for the classic tea, £48 with Prosecco, £54 with Champagne
Bookings: Highly recommended, this is a popular destination for both locals and city break travellers
Dietaries: Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options are available with prior notice
Who’s It For?
This isn’t a fussy, pinky-raised afternoon tea. It’s for:
– Design lovers
– Foodies
– Anyone with an eye for flair
– Visitors wanting to experience the indulgent side of Manchester
– Locals in search of a special treat
Reviews

We finally redeemed a gift at Hotel Gotham given to us for our anniversary whereby we enjoyed Champagne afternoon tea. Everything on offer was gorgeous and we had the nice little touch of an anniversary plate. Ali our waiter was fabulous and very attentive.

Came here for afternoon tea for my birthday. I loved everything about it. The service was fantastic and really attentive. The food doesn’t rush out; so I wouldn’t advice going really hungry. But we were really full by the end of it.

The best Gluten Free Afternoon Tea I have had! We visited for a champagne afternoon tea for two. Both Myself and my Wife are Gluten Free and I have to admit this was the best GF afternoon tea I have had. I would highly recommend.

The best Afternoon Tea we have had by far! Absolutely lovely and would recommend to everyone. Beautiful hotel and setting to eat. Staff were just lovely and made my mums birthday celebration extra special. Would definitely go again.

We pre-booked afternoon tea (one vegetarian). The restaurant was nicely laid out and had great views of Manchester and beyond. Our food and drink was amazing, the staff are all lovely and very helpful. We will return!
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Clayton Hotels
Enjoy a relaxed Afternoon Tea at Clayton Hotel Manchester City Centre, served in the stylish No.55 Restaurant. Expect classic sandwiches, warm scones, and seasonal mini desserts, with Prosecco upgrades available. Ideal for couples, families, and city-goers. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options offered. A modern, unfussy take on tradition.
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