Tea for two

Five in the afternoon. We fall on the small armchair at the Foyer, facing a pale green striped china teacup. We leave behind the frantic running, the suitcases and the planes. The first warm sip caresses the palate and soothes the stomach, neglected since morning. The second clears the temples; the third returns us to heaven. One hundred orchids at the centre, columns and screens, bathed in the colours of the 20’s.

Crystalline laughter and murmurs that trail eses like the ocean’s floor. Champagne glasses and trays dressed in white circling the tables. Bits of farms and groves trapped in tender breads. The diligence of an impeccable waiter erases small doubts and great sorrows. Succulent scones and rich clotted cream wake up our dreams. Another cup of tea. Time vanishes amongst jams and pastries.

Ladies and gentlemen in formal wear, girls whisper secrets to golden ladies in shiny dresses. A violin hums Cole Porter’s melodies wrapped in piano chords, enhancing varnished woods and lacquers. Velvet textures, the jingle of silver spoons. Four cakes fill the table with tropical scents. Tea time at Claridge’s, our favourite spot in London. An English tradition at its finest.

Afternoon tea at Claridge’s.  Brook Street. Mayfair. London W1K 4HR. Tel: 44 (o)20 74096307. Tea Guild Award of Excellence 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007