In recent years, the traditional practice of taking afternoon tea has evolved into an exhibition of culinary artistry. Dainty sandwiches and glistening cakes crafted with meticulous attention to colour and detail. Where better to experience this very British art than at a globally renowned creative institution? Afternoon Tea at Tate Modern is an unmissable opportunity to sample creative cakes and savouries inspired by artistic movements, all with a view over London.
Set on the sixth floor of the Natalie Bell Building, the Tate Modern afternoon tea isn’t just a chance to enjoy gorgeous miniatures inspired by current collections, it’s a celebration of seasonal dishes created with produce from local suppliers. At the time of writing, afternoon tea is inspired by the artist Wassily Kandinsky, known as the pioneer of the abstraction movement and famed for striking paintings that incorporate lines, shapes, and bold colours.
The Tate Modern afternoon tea menu begins with brioche rolls filled with Rhug Estate egg mayonnaise and watercress, miniature bagels with chalk stream trout and black pepper cream cheese, and brioche buns of honey roast ham and grain mustard. Scones arrive still warm from the oven with strawberry preserve and Cornish clotted cream. The pastry selection includes jaffa cake macaroons half-dunked in chocolate, Bramley apple spheres, and passion fruit and layered caramel opera cakes. There’s also a gluten-free menu and a varied selection of teas and coffee. But if you really want to treat yourself, you’ll have the opportunity to upgrade with a cocktail or glass of Coates & Seely Brut Reserve.
It’s not just afternoon tea on offer. Before you sit down to indulge in the delights, you can experience a guided discovery tour and explore the main collections and must-see artists at the Tate.