What does a British gentleman’s tea look like? Picture ales, whiskeys, and savory scones that are a perfect way to celebrate Dad.
High tea is synonymous with white cloth napkins, pink frosted miniature pastries, and scones slathered in a whipped pillow of clotted cream and jam. Sunday best comes to mind, and china cups held high with a regal finger extended. Bucking with tradition, one British hotel is introducing a new menu that could be your next Father’s Day win.
The Milestone Hotel in London’s posh Kensington neighborhood launched their first Gentleman’s Tea last June, and this year, they intend to make it an annual staple, just in time for Father’s Day. The more masculine minded offering pairs a flight of three British Ales and three varieties of whiskeys with a more savory selection of scones and sandwiches.
Located on the edge of Hyde Park, The Milestone sits at the crossroads of British history, with Kensington Palace just within eyeshot. Leaded windows dating back to the 1890s blend with a warm, light filled room complete with crimson drapes and chaises, with even the shelves of books lining the wood paneled walls papered in scarlet hues. It’s a scene that is utterly transportive; a fitting location for such a fresh take on the oft-overlooked afternoon tea. Gone are the soggy finger sandwiches and stale crumpets that are all too often associated with High Tea. Here you’ll find freshly whipped clotted cream so light and airy it might have floated down from the overcast London skies. Scottish smoked salmon and Welsh rarebit accompany their sweet counterparts, and a pianist sits in the corner, amenable to personal requests.
As the meal comes to a crescendo, ask for a to go box and you’ll find a beautifully presented package, perfect for a pre-show bite in Hyde Park or snuck into your seats at the neighboring Royal Albert Hall.
Planning a visit from overseas? Complete the decadent weekend and treat Dad to a well-priced business flight on La Compagnie for nonstop service in style.
