When a “royal” invitation is extended for high tea at the Ritz Hotel in Piccadilly, London - one does not feign or have second thoughts. The RSVP was immediately “I accept”. My second cousin is royalty in her own right and this very British tradition is celebrated by many on special occasions. Luckily, one no longer needs to be royalty, aristocracy or celebrity to enjoy high tea at the Ritz.
side view of the Ritz hotel
A high tea can be anywhere in the world but since it is quintessentially British - hopping on the plane to sip tea at the Ritz is possibly a one time experience that I wanted to be a part of. Opinions vary about the high tea experience at this luxury hotel; therefore I preferred to find out for myself.
reception area
Upon entering the hotel, one will take pause to enjoy the beautiful reception area. I love these unique cabbage flowers. I went closer.
The reservation was at the perfect time - 3:30 pm. I arrived at 3pm in order to have ample time to enjoy the hotel and make photos. The stylish Louis XIV decor was apparent. Many people stopped by this pretty stairwell to take photos.
The interior of the hotel is ostentatiously luxurious.
The long hallway beckoned me to keep walking.
High tea is served in the Palm Court.
The space is beautiful from every angle.
The interior has not changed from its original decor and splendour - since its opening in 1906. To maintain standards, there is a dress code: no jeans, sportswear, sneakers and men must wear a jacket. If you forget - one will be provided.
Needless to say, wandering around the hallways in this opulent, cream-coloured decor was very pleasant.
Even the entrance to the ladies room (powder room) is gorgeous.
Everywhere is classically and gracefully decorated. It was even more evident when seated for the high tea in the Palm Court.
The eye catching high covings with gilded trellis work were so impressive and complemented the ornate and shiny chandeliers. It was truly special to sit here.
A waiter confirmed our previously communicated preferences and asked for our wishes from a selection of 18 teas.
a portion of the menu
Each person received individual pots of tea. I had the Lapsang Souchong and then the Lemon Verbena. We toasted my cousin with a glass of champagne. The price was obscene but this was a wonderful celebration.
I requested gluten-free sandwiches (which are usually dubious) however they were tasty enough. The sandwiches were perfectly cut and beautifully presented.
my separated gluten-free servings
The other traditional selection of sandwiches looked equally tasty.
It was unanimous - the pastries were mouth watering.
The expected clotted cream and strawberry preserve, with freshly baked scones were also served.
On one half of the scone - I place the clotted cream first then the preserve above and vice versa 😀. This is an old discussion - both ways were equally as tasty.
The sandwiches and pastries were plentiful because when finished - the waiters immediately replenished the servings. It was impossible to finish them all. I waited for the last serving. This was a delectable slice of cake from the cake trolley. I chose the chocolate cake - it was worth the indulgence.
The ambience was lovely and we delighted in our tea sandwiches as we sipped on our favorite teas. The waiters were extremely attentive, pouring tea and offering more sandwiches as needed. In the background, we were entertained by a pianist. At a certain point the pianist serenaded by cousin with the happy birthday song and she received her own smart tart and a short applause from all those present. The pianist renditions were lovely throughout the high tea and at the right volume and timing. I went over to compliment her and was allowed to make this photo.
Tea time lasts 1 ½ hrs. One cannot linger much longer. I was surprised that the waiter offered to box the patisserie on the table to take home (not sandwiches as on they would become soggy). They placed them in beautiful boxes to go. They would be dispose of - so they quietly offer them to their guests. My table enjoyed the delicious treats whilst there - it was a lot more fun to do so. We managed to savor the experience for an extra 30 minutes whilst finishing our pastries. Maybe it's because we were celebrating a special occasion. However, soon it was time to go. High tea at the Ritz is clearly a thriving business. If you are enticed to visit for your own experience - remember to book 6 months in advance.
Needless to say, my cousin had a wonderful time with her family and friends. The experience met our expectations.
Would I visit again? A resounding yes.
entrance to the cloakroom
High tea at the Ritz was a lovely experience. The atmosphere was cosy, friendly and of course elegant. I guess this is the ultimate tea experience. 😀
the walls by the cloakroom
The afternoon was very special and can only be eclipsed by its own beautiful setting and grandeur of the Palm Court. The hotel truly embodied the meaning of its own name by being ritzy and spectacular.
It was time to go. It was an amazing afternoon and time well spent.
All photos are my own