Pretty in pink – writer Giverny Masso stops by The Capital for a bellyful of Prosecco-powered afternoon tea
A trademark of British cuisine, afternoon teas are often an extremely formal affair – sometimes to the point where they can feel a little impersonal and leave you craving a bit more relaxed comfort.
One hotel in Knightsbridge, however, has managed to combine the grandeur of a high tea with the cosy atmosphere you might feel sitting in your living room. The result? An experience that feels all the more special for being so intimate – in the form of a new Pink Prosecco Afternoon Tea.
The Venue
Tucked down a tree-lined street in the heart of Knightsbridge, The Capital is a five-star boutique hotel in a stylish Victorian building.
The hotel’s afternoon tea takes place in ‘The Sitting Room’, which has only four tables. The room has an eclectic feel with patterned wallpaper, red velvety chairs and small vases of pastel-coloured flowers.
The Food & Drink
While there are a fine selection of teas on offer, my friend and I both go for the signature English breakfast brew after listening to the waiter singing its praises. He isn’t wrong – as by the end of the tea I’d made my way through two pots, alongside a few glasses of the free-flowing Prosecco.
Our first course consists of three slivers of sandwich, in rainbow-coloured breads which are flavoured with Matcha, beetroot and turmeric. The sandwiches are so dainty we consume them in a few bites, with my friend opting for seconds while I hold on for the sweet courses to come.
Next are the scones, served with clotted cream and the hotel’s signature jams – cherry and pepper and strawberry and rose – which are exquisite and worth a special shout-out.
Out of the very generous selection of sweet treats, I most enjoy the miniature chocolate tartlet and the lemon and poppy cupcake – which, on the waiter’s recommendation, we save until last to cleanse the palate.
The Wordrobe Verdict
Stepping off the busy streets of London into The Capital hotel felt as though we were stepping back in time into the tranquillity of a Victorian aristocrat’s sitting room.
The afternoon tea felt special for its extremely personal and cosy feel along with the attention to small details – such as the jams – and the impeccable service. If you love pretty food (or maybe just all things pink) then it’s time for your next pitstop.
Make it happen
Where: 22-24 Basil St, Knightsbridge, London SW3 1AT.
How: visit warwickhotels.com to find out more and make a booking.
Words by Giverny Masso, writer.
