Afternoon tea at the Wellington Lounge

After enjoying the Wellington Lounge’s Botanical afternoon tea last year, I’ve since been back for cocktails, mince pies and a moment of refuge from the Saturday shopping crowds. Needless to say, I was happy to be invited back to try their Wellington Tea as inspired by Arthur Wellesley, a former Prime Minister and Duke of Wellington. Starting with an open sandwich of Spanish ham and Monte Enebro cheese and a glass of champagne, there was little doubt that my afternoon at the Wellington Lounge was going to be anything but delicious and relaxing, which is what afternoon tea is about after all.

Afternoon tea without sandwiches simply won’t do. Sirloin beef with a hint of horseradish to a surprisingly tasty Portuguese sardine and honey variety. With dessert including the ultimate pairing of chocolate and coffee in the form of Sachertorte, layered blackberry and vanilla sponge bavarois, a Basque-style cake with a rich black cherry jam and a pairing of some of my favourite ingredients: coconut and pistachio tart. Hmmn, yes please! As I’ve come to expect, the presentation was exquisite. Every time I slice into a cake, those feelings of angst arise and I half expect to be told off for ruining the dessert. Fortunately, I was left in peace to indulge further. I don’t like to choose favourites but the buttermilk scones get my vote every time. Served warm with hip-widening clotted cream (is there any other way?), and strawberry preserve, the texture was perfect. Making scones is no laughing matter, which is my my rather bleak efforts have yet to make an appearance on the blog. Scone classes needed!

The Wellington Tea costs £28 per person (excluding champagne).

Wellington Lounge
InterContinental London Park Lane
One Hamilton Place
Park Lane
W1J 7QY
44 (0)20 7318 8509

Not Just Another Milla was a guest of the Intercontinental Park Lane.