Let me tell you I recently had the most delightful afternoon tea experience at the Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar in London.
I’ve been to my fair share of afternoon tea spots but this one really stood out.
It wasn’t just about the classic finger sandwiches and scones although those were absolutely delicious.
It was the whole ambiance the impeccable service and the way they truly elevated the traditional afternoon tea into a truly unique experience.
Stepping into a World of Elegance
The Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar is located in the heart of Bloomsbury a neighborhood known for its literary heritage and charming cobblestone streets.
As soon as I stepped inside I felt like I’d been transported back in time to a bygone era of elegance and sophistication.
The décor is a mix of vintage charm and modern sophistication with plush velvet seating ornate chandeliers and a warm inviting atmosphere.
The restaurant itself boasts a grand entrance that sets the tone for a sophisticated afternoon.
The moment you walk in you’re greeted by a flurry of activity with staff swiftly moving about taking orders and attending to guests’ needs with impeccable timing.
The whole scene is a testament to the dedication and precision that defines the London service experience.
A Feast for the Senses
The afternoon tea itself was a veritable feast for the senses.
The presentation was exquisite with each element carefully arranged on a tiered stand.
The delicate finger sandwiches were filled with fresh ingredients like smoked salmon and cream cheese cucumber and dill and coronation chicken.
The pastries were a symphony of sweet and savory flavors with delectable mini-cakes mini macarons and creamy éclairs.
And of course no afternoon tea is complete without scones which were warm fluffy and served with clotted cream and homemade jam.
The Art of Tea
But the real star of the show was the tea.
The Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar boasts an extensive tea menu with a wide selection of black green herbal and fruit infusions.
As a tea aficionado I was thrilled to see so many unique blends on offer.
I opted for the Earl Grey which was a perfect blend of bergamot and black tea and my companion chose the Darjeeling known for its delicate floral aroma and refreshing taste.
The tea itself was a ritual in itself.
We were presented with a teapot a strainer and a timer to ensure the perfect brewing time.
The staff even provided us with a little history of the tea we had chosen which added to the whole experience.
A Truly Unforgettable Experience
The Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar is not just about afternoon tea; it’s about creating a truly unforgettable experience.
The ambiance the service the food and the tea all work together to create a truly magical and memorable afternoon.
Beyond Afternoon Tea: A Culinary Destination
While the afternoon tea is undoubtedly a highlight the Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar is much more than just a tea room.
It also serves a delicious lunch and dinner menu offering a range of classic British dishes with a modern twist.
I’ve had the pleasure of trying their roast chicken which was perfectly cooked and tender and their fish and chips which were crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside.
Embracing the Bloomsbury Spirit
Beyond the food and ambiance the Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar truly embraces the Bloomsbury spirit.
The restaurant is named after the iconic Bloomsbury Group a group of intellectuals writers and artists who lived and worked in the neighborhood in the early 20th century.
The restaurant often hosts events and exhibitions celebrating the arts and literature creating a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Bloomsbury.
A Must-Visit for Any London Visitor
If you’re looking for a truly unique and unforgettable afternoon tea experience in London then the Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit.
Whether you’re a tea enthusiast a lover of fine dining or simply looking for a charming and sophisticated afternoon out this restaurant will surely leave a lasting impression.
The Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar: More than just a Restaurant
The Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar transcends its role as a dining establishment.
It’s a cultural touchstone a haven of sophistication and a celebration of London’s rich history and vibrant contemporary spirit.
It’s a place where you can truly savor the experience lose yourself in the ambiance and create lasting memories.
The Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Afternoon Tea Delights: More Than Just Tea
But let’s get back to the heart of the matter: afternoon tea.
It’s a British institution a tradition deeply woven into the fabric of society.
And yet it’s so much more than just tea.
The Origins of Afternoon Tea
The origins of afternoon tea can be traced back to the 17th century when King Charles II introduced tea drinking to the British court.
Tea quickly became a popular drink among the upper classes and was often served as a social gathering.
In the 19th century afternoon tea became even more popular.
Anna the seventh Duchess of Bedford is credited with popularizing the tradition.
The Duchess who lived in a grand estate in the English countryside found herself getting peckish between lunch and dinner.
She would often ask for a tray of tea and light snacks to be brought to her private rooms.
Afternoon Tea as a Social Ritual
Over time the Duchess’s private tea ritual evolved into a social gathering with friends and family joining her for a spot of tea and a light meal.
The tradition quickly spread throughout British society becoming a popular way for people to socialize and enjoy a moment of respite from the day’s activities.
The Modern Afternoon Tea Experience
Today afternoon tea is a popular activity for tourists and locals alike and it’s a tradition that has evolved with the times.
While the core elements of the tradition remain the same—the tea the sandwiches the scones and the pastries—the modern afternoon tea experience is often elevated with creative twists and unique touches.
The Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar: Elevating the Tradition
The Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar is a prime example of how modern afternoon tea can be reimagined.
They use locally sourced ingredients they offer an extensive tea menu with unique blends and they pay attention to the smallest details from the presentation of the food to the ambiance of the restaurant.
Afternoon Tea for Every Occasion
Afternoon tea is a versatile tradition that can be enjoyed for any occasion.
It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary or it can be a simple way to unwind after a long day.
Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated afternoon tea experience or a more casual gathering the Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar is the perfect place to indulge in the British tradition of afternoon tea.
The next time you find yourself in London be sure to make a reservation at the Bloomsbury Number Twelve Restaurant & Bar and experience the magic of afternoon tea for yourself.