The Savoy, one of the world’s iconic hotels, provides the glamour of yesteryear with the functionality of today. Originally opened in 1889, the hotel has made its place in history, hosting royalty, world leaders and celebrities.
About the Savoy
Elegant, comfortable and very much a home from home, The Savoy’s guestrooms and suites are the perfect place to stay in the heart of London. Honouring the hotel’s two main aesthetics, English Edwardian and Art Deco, the rooms seamlessly blend the traditional with the latest in discreet technology. Designer Pierre Yves Rochon has used the finest materials from murano glass chandeliers and silk wall coverings to Italian linens and marble floors. No two rooms are the same, with many boasting original features, such as original fireplaces. Many also benefit from the views over the River Thames and the city of London.
History of the Savoy’s Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea at The Savoy is an enduring custom that has been a feature of hotel since its opening. Surviving menus show that today’s sandwiches, followed by patisserie were then established parts of Afternoon Tea. Other offerings included toast, English muffins, ice cream, fruit salad, and boxes of chocolates. Tea itself might have even be substituted by coffee or hot chocolate. Such sweet indulgence was offset by a little gentle exercise: The Savoy offered thés dansant. This was when the house dance bands provided a background of popular tunes, while the professional dancers demonstrated the latest steps and danced with the guests. Today, the concept and the surroundings have been updated, giving the classic elegance of The Savoy’s iconic Afternoon Tea a modern twist.
Afternoon Tea at the Savoy
Having won OpenTable Diners’ Choice Awards 2018, the Thames Foyer is very much the heart of The Savoy. A stunning glass dome floods this sociable spot with wonderful natural light. Beneath this, a pianist serenades guests, as they enjoy the world-famous afternoon tea. Afternoon Tea at The Savoy is an long-lasting tradition where guests can choose from a range of teas served with finger sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream & jam. The selection of seasonal cakes and pastries is created by The Savoy’s Executive Pastry Chef Daniel Pearse. Pearse and his team hand-craft them each morning to be served on the day. A glass of Louis Roederer Brut Premier or Deutz Rosé can be added to make the experience extra special. In addition to our renowned traditional Afternoon Tea and High Tea, the hotel also offers a Vegan Afternoon Tea and a Vegetarian Afternoon Tea.
Our Afternoon Tea Experience
Stepping into the beautiful Thames Foyer, my expectations have been high. I heard a lot about it’s afternoon tea, so I can’t wait to start the experience. I have ordered a Traditional High Tea with a courteous waiter, who suggested starting with a glass of Louis Roederer Brut Premier. A selection of sandwiches came straight after the champagne. My favourite was the Coronation Chicken with Mustard Cress on Black Olive Bread. Next came the hot dish – Herb Steamed Salmon Wild Forest Mushrooms & Oscietra Caviar. It was delicious but it felt a bit strange to have that between the sandwiches and scones. Finally, the 3-tier stand came with scones and cakes. The scones were good, but the strawberry jam was a bit too runny for me. As for the cakes, there were only 2 types – choux and lemon cake.
The Verdict
I liked the selection of teas and sandwiches. However, I expected a lot more variety and creativity from the desserts, so that was a disappointment. The good thing is that the sandwiches, scones and cakes were unlimited, and we could take some home!
