Mostly About Chocolate Blog

So, there I was… sitting on the first floor (second floor for you North American types), having an afternoon tea at what both feels like the MOST exclusive place and yet is one of the most accessible places for afternoon tea in London. It has both luxury and elegance, but without attitude or artificial airs. I was invited by the PR but I have since returned and spent my own cash there because I liked it that much!

Mariage Frères in Covent Garden offers an exceptional afternoon tea experience that combines beautiful French elegance with the rich traditions of tea culture. One only has to look at the menu of what you can choose as your pot of tea to realise that this is an exceptional tea room (dozens upon dozens of teas). They offer a distinct afternoon tea experience with a delightful (I mean, I always say this but it’s true) selection of four tea-infused delicacies accompanied by two Parisian-style scones (SUPER tasty scones), served with butter and tea jelly, and your choice of tea from their extensive collection. This is all crafted with Mariage Frères’ signature “Cuisine au Thé” philosophy, incorporating tea as a delicate ingredient, spice, or flavouring in each dish. The most striking item was the handmade marshmallow with a flavour and tangy coating of Habibi tea. I could eat far too many of these marshmallows and I am so glad you can also buy them by the box <3

Located at 38 King Street, this flagship emporium is housed in a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse and features the world’s largest tea wall, showcasing nearly 1,000 varieties of loose-leaf teas. With an extensive tea menu, guests can choose from a wide array of blends, including classics like Earl Grey and Marco Polo, as well as unique offerings such as Kyoto Cherry Rose and Thé des Signes. I absolutely loved the Ume Cha tea which had a heady bouquet and a delightful illusion of sweet on the palate meaning you can drink it straight up without feeling the tannin or any bitterness. HIGHLY recommended tea (and not just because they invited me – I’m spending my own cash on marshmallows and tea with these folks on my own without the PR knowing).

But… I hear you thinking… I’ve said its nice and I liked the ambiance but what is it *like*. Well, the Salon de Thé has an ornate gallery flooded with natural light from the skylights and windows, and the upstairs has intricate heritage balustrades. The bathrooms might be in the basement, but there is a lift when you get older like me with dodgy knees. There are white tables in a black and white room over the shop entrance with lovely china for your tea, cakes, or whatever you order. The lighting is subtle but beautiful and the white chairs and tables make the whole room so light.

I have read the reviews and I know there is some negative press out there for the tea room… I honestly have gone in without the PR knowing and it is a bit full at times but still really nice. The staff when I went on my own were very nice, and when I went at the invitation of the PR they were equally as nice – I was not catered for any differently when I was splashing my own cash. I absolutely would take my mum there (and probably will depending on when she visits next) and I know I’ll get good value.

Afternoon tea is served daily from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made by contacting the restaurant part of the shop directly at +44 20 7836 1854. For more information, visit their official website: Mariage Frères London. Whether you’re a tea connoisseur or simply seeking a luxurious afternoon outing, Mariage Frères in Covent Garden offers a memorable and refined tea experience.