The Four-Course Afternoon Curiosity at Dukes London introduces an innovative twist to this quintessentially British tradition in collaboration with Louis Roederer champagne and luxury tea brand, JP’s Originals, served at the hotel’s heritage-style Drawing Room.
Since it opened its doors in 1908 in the heart of St James’s, Dukes has been a favourite for royalty, celebrities and artists of all kinds, including Ian Fleming, the man who created James Bond. Steeped in history, Dukes celebrates British luxury in a very distinctive way. On this occasion, the luxury London hotel has thrown the Afternoon Tea rulebook out of the window to create the Four-Course Afternoon Curiosity.
Amuse-bouche and savoury treats in the Four-Course Afternoon Curiosity.
Gone is the conventional tiered stand. This original menu is a refined and immersive affair that honours British tradition while catering to modern palates. Each course is designed to take guests on a culinary journey, with an emphasis on flavour, presentation, and engagement. Executive Chef, Nigel Mendham, told us, “We’ve reimagined every detail, blending the best of British tradition with innovative flavours and presentation. From the amuse-bouche to the final sweet touch, we want our guests to feel both indulged and entertained.”
There is no stuffy or over attentive service here; the exceptional staff are knowledgeable and on hand to cater to your every need. Expertly led by the Manager, Mercedes Prado, each course and the inspiration behind it is explained with passion and enthusiasm down to the finest detail.
We accompanied our playful dessert course with a glass of Louis Roederer champagne.
The journey begins with an amuse-bouche of Eggs Drumkilbo, a dish beloved by the Queen Mother and a nod to the hotel’s royal connections. This is followed by a savoury course, where guests can expect creative, contemporary takes on classic flavours, think beetroot and goats cheese cone and leek and cheddar cheese muffin with a fig relish.
The third course showcases a flight of Scones, which includes three unique flavour combinations paired with condiments crafted to enhance their delicate notes. My favourites were the Camomile with salted butter and Lavender with honey crème pâtissiere. Finally, the indulgent dessert course offers interactive sweet treats that encourage guests to playfully engage with their food. The hand-poured chocolate tart was divine, and a close second was the lime, coconut and basil cake.
The teas by JP’s originals are exceptional and include sustainable, artisanal whole-leaf speciality teas, infusions and even sparkling tea options. Of course, no Afternoon Tea experience is complete without champagne, and the Louis Roederer was the perfect companion. Non-alcoholic alternatives as well as a vegan menu and any other dietary requirements are available.
From arriving at the hotel till our last spoonful of desert, this is a place where you will arrive as a guest and leave as a friend. This isn’t just Afternoon Tea; it’s a true gourmet experience.
Further information and reservations, HERE.
Dukes London
35 St James’s Place, London SW1A 1NY.
Author: Linda Hunting
A fan of Afternoon Tea? Read about Festive Afternoon Tea at The Great Scotland Yard Hotel HERE and about five other luxury Afternoon Tea experiences in London, HERE.
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