Helen Wilcock pays a visit to 108 Pantry for an autumnal afternoon tea experience
It’s no secret that Marylebone is an extremely sophisticated part of London. Everything about 108 Pantry showcases that, especially the seasonal afternoon menu created by Executive Chef Russell Ford and Pastry Chef Moinal Islam.
Using only the finest ingredients, the new menu has been designed to encapsulate an idyllic autumnal English country garden setting – and it doesn’t disappoint.
The Venue
A stunning space located in The Marylebone Hotel’s Edwardian townhouse, 108 Pantry is just a short walk from Oxford Street. The interior design is simply beautiful with gold accents and stylish china showcasing the best in vintage accessories.
Located away from the main restaurant it has a relaxed yet buzzy atmosphere for a Saturday afternoon.
The Drinks
To make to most of your time at 108 Pantry I would definitely recommend trying one of the four English Sparkling Wines carefully selected to pair with the menu. We chose the Gusbourne Estate Brut Rosé from Kent and it was divine.
For the all-important tea aspect of your visit, the restaurant has partnered with The Rare Tea Company founded by Henrietta Lovell, the company not only sources and supplies the world’s best tea but also focuses on sustainable practices for both the land and the farmers.
The menu features a large choice of teas including a variety of black tea, green tea, white tea and herbal infusions so there is an option for everyone.
The Food
The focus on the use of seasonal ingredients means that it is not a stereotypical afternoon tea found everywhere in London, which one of the many wonderful things about 108 Pantry. Another is that they offer a gluten-free option which is showcased in the same regard as the standard menu, rather than it being second thought as is the usual case.
We enjoyed the standard menu which consists of two different scones, four savouries and four desserts. The homemade scones were plain and Pear & Cardamom, which we devoured and my only issue was that they were too small.
The savoury dishes included Smoked Salmon on Guinness Brown Bread, a Coronation Chicken Tartlet, Dorset Crab Crumpet with Apple and Watercress and Truffled Brie with a Jerusalem Artichoke Crisp.
While the four sweets were Quince Fool, Chocolate & Orange Battenberg, an Apple & Blackberry Custard Tart and a Plum & Pistachio Delice. Each mini dish was delicious and allowed the seasonal ingredients to shine – but my favourite was the Dorset Crab Crumpet, stunning crab topped with thinly sliced apple which added a great texture.
The Wordrobe Verdict
A beautiful setting to relax with a glass of English sparkling wine and enjoy a delicious afternoon tea. Expect brilliant service from the a front of house team who know every detail of the menu. This, paired with the seasonal take on a traditional offering makes it the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
For £42 per person it is also extremely well-priced, especially as you will be likely to leave carrying a box of delicious offerings that you were unable to finish.
Make it happen
Where: 108 Marylebone Ln, Marylebone, London W1U 2QE
Bookings: Click here to make a reservation.
