Afternoon tea at Sanctum Hotel

In Central London, afternoon tea at Sanctum Hotel reimagines the city’s favourite ritual with a modern palate. Two curated paths set the tone: the Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea and a Japanese Afternoon Tea, each exploring clean lines, bright flavours and an easy sense of balance.

The Gentleman’s edition leans into savoury finesse: tuna tataki glossed with ponzu, a tangle of crispy fennel and seaweed, and salmon tartare brightened by wasabi, coriander and mint with sweet pickled cucumber. Dessert keeps things intriguing, from whiskey chocolate and tofu mousse to mango sorbet with honeycomb. A pour of smoky hojicha or vibrant matcha sets a steady tempo.

The Japanese Afternoon Tea walks a similarly elegant line. Think tuna tataki with pickled cucumber and sea vegetables, and vegetable gyoza with dipping sauce, before a smooth landing of chocolate and caramel tart and pecan pie. With traditional hojicha and matcha in the pot, it is an afternoon that rewards unhurried conversation and a keen appetite.

For those seeking a thoughtful twist on tradition in the heart of the city, this is teatime worth lingering over. Take a seat, choose your brew, and let the afternoon drift deliciously by.