Afternoon Tea for Two at Harrods’ Georgian Restaurant Review
Reviewed by Melanie Allen
Buyagift.com, as it says on the envelope I received through the post, are ‘the gift experts’ and I totally agree with their slogan. On their website, they offer over 5,000 unusual and exciting gift ideas that can be bought in just a few clicks. Inside the gift envelope I received was a small folder containing all the information I needed to book my experience, which was ‘Afternoon Tea for Two at Harrods’ Georgian Restaurant’. I inputted the web address into my browser and in the top right-hand corner, I easily found the voucher activation link so I copied the details off the voucher credit card sized card from the pack. I chose the date I wanted and for this experience I either had to call Reservations at Harrods or email them. I called them up and double checked the dress code, and was told it was smart casual, but no trainers or flip flops. I then received email confirmation shortly afterwards – a very simple booking process.
The next day, me and my mum arrived in a sweltering London and found our way to Knightsbridge where the worldly infamous luxury shopping destination is located. It took a while (due to the size), but we eventually found the art deco inspired escalators to the fourth floor where the Georgian Restaurant was situated. We were greeted by friendly staff who asked for my voucher and then we were seated at a simple yet spotless table in the middle of the room, with napkins placed gently on our laps.
The Georgian restaurant is traditional in style with starched white pristine table cloths but with magnificent luxurious and extremely comfortable velvet chairs which were individual to each table. It reminded me of how I imagine the dining room to be on the Titanic. I was slightly disappointed by the lack of fresh flowers on the tables, which although were in water were actually made of silk. I also noticed that the dress code wasn’t being adhered to. There were plenty of customers wearing trainers, sportswear and baseball caps which didn’t bother me, but if they have a dress code then they really should stick to it to maintain their high standards. The clientele was mixed, with couples, families (including those with children) and businessmen.
We were brought the extensive tea menu by the distinguished and very polite waiter and offered a glass of iced water. I chose (from about 10 different choices) an English breakfast tea and my mum chose an afternoon leaf tea. Each arrived in a large and heavy silver teapot, a bit like Aladdin’s lamp, with a separate tea strainer. In the background was recorded pleasant piano music but this was an ideal volume and didn’t distract us from our conversation. We had fresh tea made for us after about an hour so that we continually had a hot cup of tea in our hand.
When the food arrived, it was immaculately presented on a silver three-tiered stand. On the bottom white china plate was a selection of finger sandwiches and a warm goat’s cheese and cranberry tart. The fillings included egg mayonnaise, smoked salmon, beef and horseradish and turkey and fig on tomato bread. When we cleared the plate, I wondered if we were going to be hungry, but I need not have worried. We were asked if we wanted more and rather greedily, we ordered the same again! I then realised that I might not have room for everything else…
On the next plate up were the condiments in silver dishes ready for the freshly baked scones (arriving later) which went above the usual traditional cream tea. As well as strawberry conserve and clotted cream, there was rose petal jelly and lemon curd. On the top layer were beautifully presented bite size pastries and cakes, the attention to detail was amazing. For chocolate lovers, there was a sumptuous chocolate mousse filled finger, for fruit lovers a tangy lemon curd bombe (with gold leaf) and a raspberry cream type profiterole which was my most favourite. Next, there was a mini vanilla slice (with silver leaf) and an exquisite sponge cake which was decorated with a real pansy on the top. The dilemma here was – is it edible?! I’m sure it was, otherwise we would have been warned, but I refrained from eating this. Our warm scones then arrived, one plain and one fruit each. I wasn’t sure about the rose petal jam when I read its name, but it was delicious and nothing like flowers. The lemon curd was the best I’ve ever tasted, but very rich and creamy.
Just when I thought I couldn’t possibly fit anymore in, a delightful mini trifle arrived which was made with fresh strawberries with a biscuit crumb topping. We were absolutely stuffed!
I’ve had a few afternoon tea experiences but nothing beats this one. The ambience, the attentive staff, the quality of the food and the uniqueness of it being at Harrods makes this a fantastic and special experience, one that I will remember forever.
Rating: 5/5
RRP: £88
For more information or to buy this gift experience visit www.buyagift.co.uk.
