Metropolitan London

The Met Bar really is seriously cool and as one of London’s celebrity hot spots, the place oozes ‘attitude’. It’s chic, sleek and cutting edge and afternoon tea in the legendary Met Bar, or in the Lobby Lounge on a really busy day, reflects the avant-garde style of the hotel. The Metropolitan’s innovative Afternoon De-Light is designed so you can indulge yourself without worrying about your waistline. This really is a delight – all the traditional elements are there but none of the guilt – and is truly trend-setting. There is an uncompromising emphasis on using organic and locally-sourced produce. Everything, including the ‘pretty-as-a-picture cupcakes and macaroons, are made using healthy alternatives such as rice flour for the scones, fruit purees instead of unrefined sugars, and olive oil in place of of butter. The idea of ‘no-bread sandwiches may seem quirky, but the advantage is that you don’t feel full-up when you’re finished. Served in glass pots, you’ll have a selection that might include tomato jelly, crab, lime and avocado, another of chicken jalapeno mousse and coriander, along with hummous, cucumber jelly and cherry tomatoes with a honey cumin dressing. A fourth cup has seasonal stewed fruit, which could be a chance to try some quince. You’ll have room for the savoury muffin and the super scones served with a really good low-fat creme fraiche and strawberry jam just bursting with tiny berries and full of flavour, before embarking on the sweet treats. There are three varieties of iced cupcakes here, typically jasmine and orange, lemon and rhubarb, and passion fruit, not forgetting the excellent kaffir lime macaroon, a perfect balance of sweet and sharp. Top this with a glass of Champagne and a good cup of tea – you can choose from English Breakfast, Earl Grey, Darjeeling, fresh mint, mint and Verbena, green tea, jasmine or ginger and you’ll already be booking your next Afternoon De-Light date. An excellent choice for girly birthdays, baby showers or discreet bridal celebrations.