Afternoon tea at the Podium in London’s Hilton Hotel on Park Lane is not for those with a small stomach, more so for those who like to indulge.
There are six natural teas on offer and once selected the food show begins. In the first round there are six sandwiches – to be eaten with a knife and fork – the height of sophistication! Nana would be proud. These include smoked salmon, cream cheese and cucumber and honey roast ham with thin slices of cherry tomatoes. Sarnies are accompanied by a choice of Peach or Raspberry Bellinis which are presented with a glowing yellow or red mist at the bottom of the glass to really seal the deal that this is a classy joint.
The ‘main attraction’ is a two foot tall tier of cakes and delicatessens. This should be served with a warning; “can cause obstructed vision” as it was hard to see members of the table past the array of freshly baked scones, cupcakes lavished with sweetened butter and intricate chocolate frills, and finely embellished patisseries, ranging from chocolate anmille feuilles, small marshmallows tucked into small sugar coated cones and miniature brandy snaps encasing a creamy chocolate whipped cream. This is all presented on a hand-made chocolate plate which is completely edible.
Afternoon tea at the Podium is without question, a rich and elaborate food experience and at £25.50 per person, it’s a steal. Just prepare yourself for the huge number of sweet treats you will be consuming by skipping lunch.
Podium Park Lane Hilton, 22 Park Lane, W1K