The Vintry & Mercer boutique hotel is warm and intimate and with the City of London on its doorstep, it’s a great place to settle for a while. A hop from Mansion House tube, it’s on the doorstop of the beautiful city where it’s easy to meander for hours taking in the architecture and buzz.
We made our way to the hotel via The Royal Exchange to make a couple of Christmas pressie purchases from Fortnum & Mason, before strolling along the cobbles of Garlick Street. Soon after arriving we were welcomed at this intimate space and found ourselves sipping a delicious glass of Champagne, looking forward to our afternoon feast.
Inspired by the vibrant colours and excitement of the circus, Vintry & Mercer’s Circus Afternoon Tea sets out to bring the magic, spectacle and playful wonder of the big top straight to the table. A beautifully presented three-tier stand takes centre stage, delivered by our friendly server, before being brought to life with a pour of dry ice, creating a swirling, theatrical effect that set the tone perfectly.
Beginning with an impressive savoury layer featuring roast beef with horseradish tucked into a Yorkshire pudding with rich gravy; truffled egg mayonnaise in a soft brioche bun; coronation chicken with mango chutney and smoked salmon with cream cheese sandwiches finished with a flourish of caviar.
After the delicious savoury treats, we made our way up to the second layer of light and fluffy homemade buttermilk scones, served with traditional Cornish clotted cream and strawberry jam.
The show-stopping finale, and top layer was a selection of beautifully crafted pastries, features The Big Top raspberry and lemon curd mousse, Carousel Macarons with peach and raspberry; Bobo the Clown blackberry and white chocolate cheesecake with Bourbon marble sable; and Popping Apple-Dini, cherry apples coated in fruit pulp and popping candy. Each creation brought surprise and delight, both visually and in flavour.
To accompany the experience, guests can choose from Vintry & Mercer’s Tea Parade, or elevate the occasion with a glass of Charles Heidsieck Brut NV or Rosé Champagne. For those seeking something more playful, the Circus Tea Pot Tails – the hotel’s exclusive range of tea-infused cocktails, add a touch of theatrical flair to the afternoon. For younger guests, the Junior Circus Tea offers its own magical performance, complete with a specially curated menu designed to enchant little ones and make the experience a feast for all the senses and the perfect treat for families, friends, and food lovers alike.
Available on weekends and during school holidays from 12.30pm to 5pm in the hotel’s Vintry Kitchen, starting 22nd November. The Circus Afternoon Tea costs £54.50 per person, £69.50 with a glass of Charles Heidsieck Champagne Brut or £74.50 with a glass of Charles Heidsieck Champagne Rosé. The Junior Circus Tea menu costs £39.50 per child.