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Royal Afternoon Tea at The Rubens.
The Rubens at the Palace: a fitting setting for a Royalty-inspired celebration
With the Diamond Jubilee on everyone’s lips recently, I took up the opportunity to sample afternoon tea at Rubens at the Palace Hotel, located just a short walk from Buckingham Palace. The hotel is part of the Red Carnation Collection whose other properties include Montague on The Gardens where I recently attended the opening of the pop up secret garden along with several other highly-rated boutique properties.
I visited this 4 star boutique hotel on a Sunday when the Palace Lounge across the road from The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace was packed to the rafters. A piano player set the scene and the traditional luxury decor created a laid back and yet distinguished ambience. I tried the Royal Afternoon Tea to celebrate the Jubilee and unlike the classic Rubens afternoon tea this one also comes with a celebratory glass of champagne!
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The sweets, scones, and sandwiches were all completely fresh and delicious
My conveyor belt of indulgence began with an iced sweetcorn parfait and polenta sponge followed by sandwiches based on proven combinations like egg & cress and ham & mustard. A wide range of teas are offered too and I went for the Earl Grey which came in a gorgeous teapot.
After the sandwiches came the heavenly cake selection, including coffee éclairs, carrot cake, brownies and shortbread – talk about being spoilt for choice! Scones came with cream, jam and homemade chocolate spread. Just when I thought it was all over, I was serenaded with a chocolate and chilli soup accompanied by a zesty Elderflower sorbet. Utterly delish.
Service was fit for royalty as you’d expect this close to the Palace, not surprising in a hotel known for its attention to the tiniest detail. The Rubens is definitely a great place to try a traditional London afternoon tea.
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Photo credits: London Hotels Insight blogger Jules.
Disclosure: Jules was a guest of Rubens at the Palace.
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I have not tried the afternoon tea at Rubens, but you can see my guide to London’s best afternoon tea at the link below:
http://www.bonvivant.co.uk/blog/2010/02/26/londons-best-afternoon-tea-venues/
Thanks,
Emyr