Afternoon tea in London isn’t just about the food – it’s about the entire experience. British high tea culture must meet a specific set of criteria: impeccable service, elegant surroundings, a carefully curated selection of savouries and sweets, and an outstanding tea range. Rosewood London not only meets these expectations but redefines them, offering a truly unique and artistic afternoon tea. The Art Afternoon Tea, designed by Executive Pastry Chef Mark Perkins in collaboration with Scottish artist John Booth, is a celebration of creativity, art, and culinary craftsmanship at its finest.
From the moment you step into Rosewood London’s courtyard, there’s an undeniable sense that something special awaits. As you pass through the grand entrance, under sleek Art Deco lighting, you are guided into the Mirror Room. It feels like stepping into a luxurious, mirrored jewellery box where sophistication fills the air. The ambience is nothing short of enchanting, enhanced by stunning fresh flower displays. We were fortunate to be seated next to one of these striking arrangements – a perfect backdrop for a photo opportunity, we might add.
But let’s get to the heart of the experience: the afternoon tea itself. The John Booth Collection is a whimsical tribute to London’s vibrant art scene, with each element – whether food, drink, or décor – feeling like a curated piece of an art exhibit. Inspired by Booth’s colourful and bold style, Perkins has designed an afternoon tea menu that is as much a visual treat as it is a culinary one.
We opted for the Ruinart Rosé Art Afternoon tea; an indulgence paired with a rare tea selection from the London Tea Exchange. The additional £19 supplement for the rare tea pairing may seem indulgent, but it truly enhances the experience – the unique pairings magnified the flavours of each course, taking the tasting journey to a whole new level.
The sandwiches set the tone for the experience, but they aren’t your typical afternoon tea sandwiches. They are reimagined classics with a Rosewood London twist, striking a perfect balance between tradition and innovation. The cucumber and cream cheese sandwich is modernised with pickled courgette and olive tapenade on turmeric bread. A smoked salmon sandwich, paired with avocado purée on charcoal bread, was another highlight—unconventional yet utterly delicious. Each sandwich, from ham to chicken, is thoughtfully crafted and beautifully presented. Refills are available, but you may find yourself holding off to save room for the other courses.
Next up, the scones: bite-sized, warm, and delicately crisp on the outside. Served with the traditional English strawberry jam, but also with homemade lemon curd and Cornish clotted cream, they manage to strike the perfect balance of lightness and richness. These scones are so perfectly baked that you’ll likely find yourself reaching for seconds without a second thought.
The true stars of this afternoon tea, however, are the pastries, all inspired by John Booth’s artwork. They are almost too beautiful to eat…almost. The attention to detail is flawless, and each pastry feels like its own miniature masterpiece.
The standout pastry is undoubtedly The Twins. This dome-shaped cake pays homage to Booth’s life as a twin and features a complex yet harmonious blend of chocolate date sponge, praline crunch, and vanilla custard. Each bite reveals layers of unexpected textures and flavours.
Next is the Tropical Tulip, a vibrant and fruity creation inspired by Booth’s tulip motif. The mango mousse, paired with orange passionfruit jelly and pistachio sponge atop a sable biscuit base, delivers a tropical burst of flavour that is both refreshing and indulgent.
Lastly, the Painter’s Palette adds a fun and playful element. This colourful dessert layers creamy vanilla with raspberry jelly and pink sponge, finished with a crispy base. It’s a burst of flavour and colour, ending the tea experience on a delightful high note.
What truly elevated the experience was the impeccable service. The team at Rosewood London goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable, offering deep knowledge of every aspect of the menu – even suggesting the perfect order in which to enjoy your finger sandwiches to complement the tea pairing.
The John Booth Collection at Rosewood London isn’t just an afternoon tea; it’s an artistic journey that showcases both culinary skill and visual creativity. From the art-inspired pastries to the elegant surroundings, it’s an experience that feels indulgent, imaginative, and utterly unforgettable.
Whether you’re a regular afternoon tea enthusiast or someone looking for something a little more out of the ordinary, this is an experience that will leave you eager to return.
Afternoon Tea served Monday – Sunday from 12pm – 5.45pm
Ruinart Rosé Art Afternoon Tea, £95 + Tea Pairing £19 supplement
Rosewood London, 252 High Holborn, London
