Lazier hotels than the InterContinental simply go through the motions at teatime, serving a bill of fare that wouldn’t raise eyebrows at a WI meeting. Guests at the drop-dead gorgeous Wellington Lounge (every table has a view of the Wellington Arch) can expect so much more, both with the renowned tea service and throughout the day. An all-day menu touts a line-up of international best-sellers, along the lines of Heritage beetroot-cured salmon gravadlax, beautifully flavoured and served with roasted baby beetroot and crème fraiche, biryani cooked with prawns and classic fish and chips, deliciously flaky fish with unimpeachable presentation.
It’s obvious that a chef has had a hand in the creation of all three enticing tea menus. The ‘botanical’ dares to be different by kicking off with cardamom and vanilla-infused Champagne ahead of out-of-the-ordinary sweets and savouries such as nettle-marinated asparagus rolled in rare beef or Victoria plum and celeriac torte. The ‘royal’ version stays closer to classic English tradition, while the ‘best of British’ proudly champions the British Isles’ finest ingredients, both modest and luxurious. Tea choices include a bespoke blend by Tea Palace.
A crisp, smart address that effortlessly mixes high standards with pleasing informality. Ideal for flexible West End dining.