Every so often it’s nice for a girl to share a decadent treat with her sister. So, on this occasion we decided on afternoon tea at Pret-A-Portea in the luxurious 5-star Berkeley Hotel in London’s Knightsbridge.
However, this was not your traditional afternoon tea this was a fashionistas fantasy! Self-described as “celebrating a joyful and vibrant Spring/Summer ’21 collection” the Pret-A-Portea did not disappoint.
On arrival we were greeted warmly and led through the elegant hotel to the bright and airy Collins room. We were given a central table in the extended glass pavilion which had a perfect view of the serene space.
We were instantly relaxed in the light filled dining room which was set out with soft silver chairs and sleek glass tables dressed with beautiful sartorial Bernardaud china.
We plumped for the Couture Champagne Prêt-À-Portea which includes a chilled glass of Laurent-Perrier Rosé.
The Pret-A-Portea draws inspiration from the latest catwalk trends each season showcasing the colours of the fashion world. The menu is transformed every six months by Head Pastry Chef, Mourad Khiat, to follow the changing seasons in fashion.
Sandwich selection
Corn-fed chicken on onion bread, cucumber with brown butter boursin cream, Scottish salmon, peppered pastrami and duck egg mayonnaise.
There were also some tasty canapes including a smoke duck profiterole with pickled girolles, orange capers and chives.
A palette cleanser of marinated cherry toms with melon yuzu jelly, currents, basil and elderflower was a refreshing break before the sweets arrived!
Cakes and fancies
Gasps of wow escaped our lips as the cake stand arrived. The first thought in my head was gosh such beautiful intricate details and vibrant colors “can I really bite into these perfect miniature works of art!”
The helpful waiter described each cake and which designer they were celebrating inspired by the spring/summer 2021 catwalk.
Isabel Maran; a purple ensemble is an almond sponge with jelly centre glazed in glittering violet and tied with a bow.
Valentino’s gown; a pistachio fancy topped with a perfect sugar lily.
Tod’s neon shopper; a citrus victoria sponge with florescent green icing making the bag details.
Versace’s; ocean inspired dress complete with a shimmering sugar starfish.
Loveshack’s; high shine strawberries were my favourite made of strawberry and rhubarb cheesecake so delicious.
Anna Wintour’s Moschino puppet was an iced shortbread biscuit with a cute tiny red pout and dark sunglasses – perfect to nibble with a rich coffee.
Finally, the star of the show and absolute show stopper had to be Halpern’s creation. This was a sharing cake in the form of a chocolate dome with praline crunch and filled with raspberry compote. Topped off with a pair of wafer dancing legs. Truly scrumptious.
We left happy and felt not only had we thoroughly channeled our inner Carrie Bradshaw but also satisfied the sweetest tooth. This was a fun, fashionista flamboyant treat and a memory to treasure.
Oh, and the very chic doggy bag packed with the cakes we could not fit in even survived the tube journey home. Go and enjoy!
