Afternoon Tea @ The Connaught
As part of birthday celebrations, I booked the reservation (highly recommended) at least a week ahead. Arriving, I was thoroughly pleased to have dined on the terrace, with its vibrant stained glass in the wonderful London sunshine! (Sunshine, rare... right?) :)
Curated by Michelin Chef Jean Georges Vongerichten, the experience, of course, includes finger sandwiches, scones and sweet treats. The setting is polished, the staff - courteous & eager to assist with the myriad of selections, tailoring to one's preferences and/or willingness to explore outside of the norm.
Starting with champagne of your choosing, the amuse bouche follows shortly thereafter. Following that, one is encouraged to try as many teas as possible, several being sourced from Southeast Asia, amongst the British standards.
The finger sandwiches were surprising in flavor vibrant, save for the standard cucumber sandwich - being quite bland as it was. The teas I savoured were most delicate and not overpowering. Promptly, the tea tower arrived with scones and playful sweets. The scones, fresh and warm, were served with clotted cream, apricot and strawberry spreads. Imho, the strawberry could easily be replaced by a more unique flavor - boysenberry, pumpkin, gooseberry - anything other than what we can find in our local grocer. If Chef is going for a singular experience, this is a great talking point. But the two flavors served, didn't take away from afternoon tea, either.
On to the sweet delights: Full disclosure, I wanted unique presentation, and these served. Of all the deserts, only one fell flat. The varied in flavor intensity and texture, making each new one a surprise for the palate.
I was surprised at the manner of dress, as some dined in jeans, though most dressed for the occasion.
Nevertheless, I would definitely recommend.
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