The Lanesborough in London introduced the newest addition to the series of seasonal afternoon teas. Inspired by Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story and developed in collaboration with Netflix and Shondaland, this innovative offering was unveiled on May 4, 2023. With a contemporary twist, it aimed to capture the spirit of the Regency era, characterized by extravagant festivities, elegant soirées, and lavish feasts.
The exquisite Queen Charlotte Afternoon Tea unfolded within the resplendent dining room of The Lanesborough. During daylight hours, the room basked in the soft glow of a domed glass roof, casting a natural illumination. As evening descended, the scene was set ablaze by the gentle radiance of delicately lit chandeliers. The captivating space boasted bas-relief artwork meticulously sculpted from 250 unique moldings, complemented by the presence of Wedgwood china mounted on the walls—an homage to the neo-classical grandeur of the Regency period.
Head Pastry Chef Salvatore Mungiovino, renowned for his culinary expertise, dedicated his meticulous craftsmanship to curating an exceptional menu. The offerings paid homage not only to the prominent characters in Queen Charlotte but also to the illustrious history of “Lanesborough House.” Originally redesigned in 1825 by William Wilkins in the fashionable classical style of the Regency era, the building has since become an iconic embodiment of London’s quintessential Regency architecture.
The finger sandwiches comprised of tea-cured salmon with lemon and caper cream, Coronation chicken with golden raisins and fresh coriander, deviled egg mayonnaise with mustard cress, organic cucumber with cream cheese, basil, and chives, and Montgomery cheddar scone with cheese custard. To complement the savory flavors, The Lanesborough served delectable scones with cream and jam.
Head Pastry Chef Salvatore Mungiovino curated a selection of cakes and sweet treats, featuring four signature highlights:
- “Your Majesty” was a hand-crafted sharing cake dedicated to Queen Charlotte, adorned regally atop the cake stand. It showcased an elegant and delicate strawberry-scented cream bavaroise with infused orange gel, almond crunchy base, and a red chocolate spray. The edible crown, made from Royal Icing, added a fitting touch for a Queen.
- “King George Dreams of Venus” honored King George III’s passion for astronomy. This distinguished cake represented his affectionate nickname for his Queen and featured a planet sphere made of 54% chocolate mousse, jasmine-infused dark chocolate ganache, cocoa sable, and a blue and white glaze adorned with universal stars.
- “The Lady Violet” drew inspiration from Lady Violet’s elegant fashion. It presented an elegant chocolate bavaroise with mango compote, lime chantilly, seated on a shortbread base and finished with tempered chocolate and sugar flowers.
- “Danbury Delight” showcased Lady Danbury’s love for hats and jewels. It displayed the Danbury signature purple, with a Berryiolette pistachio gateau, vanilla whipped ganache, sitting on a vanilla sable base, and finished with purple tempered chocolate.
The Queen Charlotte Afternoon Tea also featured two special beverages. The “Queen Charlotte Cocktail” took inspiration from the original Regency Gin Punch, a staple of social life during the Regency period. Head of Bars, Mickael Perron, crafted a refreshing cocktail combining Fords Gin, Chambord liqueur, cranberry, exotic lychee, home vanilla sweetness, and lime sunshine, topped with Champagne. For those who preferred a non-alcoholic option, “The Queen Charlotte – Non-Alcoholic” offered Noughty Sparkling Rosé served with cranberry juice, exotic lychee, home vanilla sweetness, and lime sunshine.
The Queen Charlotte Afternoon Tea at The Lanesborough was priced at £75 per person. For an enhanced experience, guests could opt for the package including The Queen Charlotte cocktail, priced at £85 per person, or indulge in a glass of House Champagne for £90 per person. Children under 12 had the option of a specially curated afternoon tea menu priced at £35 per person. The menu catered to various dietary preferences, offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-free diets.
