ON MY PLATE: Prêt-à-Portea @ The Berkeley Hotel, London, UK
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On My Plate: Prêt-à-Portea, Berkeley by MFD’s Food ed, Tamara Samman
Prêt-à-Portea – “A Fashionista’s Afternoon Tea”. Afternoon teatime at the Berkeley Hotel in Knightsbridge, London sounds so surreal. The exciting thing about this teatime experience in particular is not just because you’re enjoying it at a posh venue, but because of the “fashionista twist” of which it boasts. Starting off with a choice from a selection of appealing types of teas amongst them being fruit infusions, pear caramel or even a satisfying chocolate mint truffle tea – just to name a few! We decided to be a little less daring and enjoyed Herbal Infusion teas of Wild Blossom, as well as a Fresh Mint. The teas were fresh, rich and perfect to warm you up after a long day.
The mouthwatering selected tea sandwiches were more than just appetizing as they satisfied our taste buds through the different flavors of coronation chicken, egg salad on a mini bun, caramelized onion on a brown toast bread, salmon tuna, crab, cream cheese and mozzarella on a sundried toast bread.
Next was when it got a whole lot more exciting. The Spring/Summer collection 2012 desserts were presented to us on a 3-tier display stand. The maître explained each delicate and creative dessert with the help of a catalogue, which resembled the latest catwalk designs of the season. These desserts were fashion forward and ranged from delish types of mousse, biscuits, cheesecakes and moist cakes. The designer resembled desserts included Dolce & Gabbana, Jason Wu, Mulberry, Valentino and Christian Louboutin, and more! On the display stand, there was also a variety of flavorful taster spoons of chilli beef and peanut roulade, and creamed feta mousse ad quince jelly.
It is recommended to do booking at least 3 days in advance! – this could be done online or over the phone.
Perfect for: Definitely a great place to meet over the love of fashion or a sisters day out (which is what we did!)
Fun Facts:
From the 29th of May to the 9th of June 2012, Berkeley will be celebrating the Diamond Jubilee in noble style with the launch of Prêt-à-Portea. The Royal Collection will include fancies, biscuits and choux buns that have been altered to look like the most memorable hats that are worn by the Royal Family.
Price:
£39 – No alcohol (includes teas/coffees, Berkeley tea sandwiches, Spring/Summer collection 2012 desserts)
£49 – same as above but with a glass of Laurent Perrier
£14 for an additional glass
£55 – Couture champagne tea time, includes a glass of Billecart-Salmon Rosé, Laurent Perrier Ultra Brut, Laurent Perrier Grand Siècle.
Location:
The Berkeley Hotel, Knightsbridge, London
SW1X 7RL
Telephone: 020 7107 8866
Timings: 1pm – 6pm daily for a limited time only