Photo by Kemey Lafond
This Valentine’s Day, Langham London Executive Pastry Chef Andrew Gravett will offer guests a romantic and rich Afternoon Tea menu made especially for the day.
Kemey and I got a sneak preview of the one-off menu this week along with a VIP tour of Chef Gravett’s kitchen. We relished every indulgent moment of our delicious sitting in The Langham’s elegant Palm Court and felt more than privileged to have been granted behind-the-scenes access to the kitchen during working hours.
Photo by Kemey Lafond
Gravett’s kitchen was spotless, members of his team were precise but cool in their method, and their creations were utterly gorgeous and delicious. Kemey and I learned a few things applicable to our own home cooking during our tour but mostly were made aware of how detail-oriented and extremely knowledgeable one must be to produce such high quality pastries and cakes at the level, rate and volume required at a venue as renowned and popular as The Langham.
During our tea, we enjoyed a range of treats from the Valentine’s menu including a Where’s Cupid? coffee and Orelys chocolate filled choux; a Marry Me pink almond praline tart; a Love is All Around hibiscus and red berry mouse; and an extra gooey and oh-so rich You Melt Me warm chocolate fondant with vanilla ice cream.
Of course before the sweets came the sarnies and scones. Finger sandwiches included roast beef and horseradish on rosemary bread; duck egg brioche with artichoke and truffle, smoked salmon with preserved lemon on a seeded cracker; crab and avocado with coriander on a brioche roll; and obligatory cucumber and cream cheese on white bread. Scones (plain and with raisins) were served with Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserves. The Langham’s list of teas is a thorough one. We enjoyed the hotel’s own Langham Blend with our serving.
Service was swift, warm and polite during our visit (Stefano was especially gracious). A Palm Court pianist played classic and contemporary tunes. We were provided with a lovely Say It with Roses takeaway cake to share at home on our way out.
The Valentine’s Day Afternoon Tea costs £59 per person (+£19 when served with Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut NV, +£26 with Perrier-Jouët Blason Rosé NV, +£30 with Perrier-Jouët Blanc de Blancs NV).
A Say It with Roses rose-shaped chocolate mousse and passion fruit cake in a pink tea caddy will be offered per couple as a takeaway gift with each booking.
Lovebirds with a penchant for luxury and fine pâtisserie should book now to ensure a spot this February 14th.
The Langham London is located at 1C Portland Place, Regent Street, W1B 1JA. Find out more at london.langhamhotels.co.uk.
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