When it comes to my perfect day. Spending the day shopping in London followed by afternoon tea at a swanky hotel is up there as one of my favourite things to do. My mum and I have a tradition where for the past eight years or so, we treat ourselves to Afternoon Tea about four times a year. We’ve been to some amazing ones including the Hilton on Park Lane, Luton Hoo and the Ritz. But one that I’ve always wanted to go to is Prêt-à-Portea at the Berkeley Hotel.
The legendary designer afternoon tea is inspired by the themes and colours of the fashion world. As Prêt-à-Portea is 10 years old, the collection is full of the 10 best fashion moments as chosen by their Pastry Chef.
So here are the 10 greatest fashion moments recreated in exquisite biscuits, bakes and fancies:
- Dolce and Gabbana’s duo of blackcurrant bavarois and star anise pannacotta, topped with chocolate owl dress design.
- Jason Wu’s romantic cherry bavarois and coconut cream topped with playful pink skirt and biscuit heel.
- Manolo Blahnik’s Hangisi quintessential pointy toe stiletto ginger biscuit.
- Burberry’s classic trench coat chocolate biscuit with creamy royal icing.
- Charlotte Olympia’s dramatic cinnamon biscuit boot with black and red icing
- Simone Rocha’s ethereal embroidered tulle dress vanilla éclair filled with salted caramel crème patissière.
- Nicholas Kirkwood’s pearl pump sachertorte layered with raspberry, chocolate ganache and Valrhona crémeux topped with delicate silver pearls.
- Jimmy Choo’s glittery gala pointed-toe shoe velvet praline cream cake with hazelnut croquant and sweetheart bow.
- Lanvin’s almond sponge, honeycomb and chocolate mousse draped with a light meringue ruffle.
- Moschino’s blood orange Victoria sponge ‘yellow M’ handbag encased in red chocolate.
Along with the cakes you also get the usual sandwiches. As with most of the Afternoon Tea’s I’ve been to, there was so much food here! My mum and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and I have to say this Afternoon Tea is probably my favourite. From the beautiful Paul Smith crockery and exquisite sweet creations to the stylish setting and welcoming atmosphere. This tea had it all.
Prêt-à-Portea is available at the Berkeley Hotel and costs £52. Or £62 per person for Champagne Prêt-à-Portea. Or £72 per person for Couture Prêt-à-Portea.
Do you like afternoon tea? Have you ever been for Prêt-à-Portea?