AFTERNOON TEA THAT BLENDS BRITISH TRADITION WITH ROOFTOP CHIC

By Tanya Howard | Founder, The Live Review · @glamglitzlondon | Press Invite

Afternoon Tea with a royal twist and skyline views of London? Sign me up. The Crown Afternoon Tea at Mercer Roof Terrace manages to feel both luxurious and welcoming. A bright, airy space with floor-to-ceiling windows and just enough glamour for an Instagram-worthy afternoon, without tipping into pretentious territory. The staff were friendly and attentive, which always sets the tone for a great experience.

There are four afternoon tea pricing options, starting from £49.50 with the classic selection. And topping out at £69.50, which includes a glass of Charles Heidsieck Champagne Rosé. We went for the £64.50 option, which included a glass of Charles Heidsieck Champagne Brut (or a Royal Tea Pot Tail if you prefer). You also have the choice between the standard offering or the vegetarian alternative.

CLARENCE TAKES THE CROWN: A SANDWICH TIER WORTH GOING BACK FOR

Let’s start with the sandwiches. The standout for me was Clarence: Coronation chicken vol-au-von, mango chutney. I’m hit and miss with coronation chicken, but here it was creamy, gently spiced, and perfectly lifted by the sweetness of the chutney. The Windsor: Roast beef, horseradish, Yorkshire pudding, gravy, was rich, hearty, and packed with the kind of savoury punch you expect from beef and gravy.

The Kensington: Smoked salmon, herb cream cheese, wholemeal bread, went straight to my friend, who was thrilled to take it off my hands. I’ve just never been a salmon fan. The Balmoral: Truffled egg mayonnaise, brioche bun, was more enjoyable than I’d anticipated. The delicate truffle note didn’t overpower, but the cucumber slice had to go. You can get one full top-up of the sandwich selection, and we were not about to skip that offer.

The Buttermilk scones, coming in both plain & raisin, were served warm with Cornish clotted cream, Earl Grey jelly, and strawberry jam. We swapped the cream for butter, with no fuss from the staff, and I stuck with the classic strawberry jam. You can’t really go wrong with a scone, comforting, soft, and classic. I’ll just always pick raisin over plain any day.

PASTRIES THAT LOOK LIKE THEY BELONG IN THE TOWER’S TREASURE ROOM

Finally, the pastry tier. Basically, a miniature gallery of edible jewels. My favourite was the Apply & (Penny) Blackcurrant Stamp: Butter sponge, blackberry jelly, Pink Lady apple mousse. Light sponge, tangy jelly, and the fresh mousse were a great combination. The Strawberry Victoria Cake: Vanilla sponge, strawberry butter cream, strawberry pipette, marzipan, was a close second. Minus the marzipan, because no times infinity.

The detailing was stunning; chocolate sceptres, royal coins, glossy “Sovereign’s Orbs”, all picture perfect. They were almost too pretty to eat… I said almost. Though a few did lean too heavily on dark chocolate for my personal taste. And whatever happened to classic caramel, everything is salted caramel these days. Visually though, 10/10.

It’s a spot you could take friends, family, or even a date. The staff recommended sitting indoors to avoid the desserts melting, which was a great shout. But do stick around after for a seat outside to enjoy the views. It’s not the cheapest afternoon tea in London, but it’s far from the most expensive. With Champagne in hand and the city skyline around you, it does feel like a treat worth savouring.

WEBSITE

READ MORE FOOD REVIEWS