Prism Brasserie, just a stone’s throw from the magnificent Lloyds Building, and right in the heart of the City of London, is not the usual sort of place that you would expect to partake of an excellent afternoon tea. The historic building, complete with towering classical columns, was once occupied by the Bank of New York, and is now a Harvey Nichols brasserie favoured by City people. With a zinc bar, classic Mies van de Rohe 1930 ‘Brno chairs in brilliant red leather and American walnut waiter stations, the large airy room is a million miles away from a traditional tea room, but this a destination worth visiting. The two set teas are served from midday through to 5.30pm on weekdays, are quite splendid, and very generous in proportions. If the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, then the artisan baguette filled with warm salt beef, English mustard mayonnaise and pickles accompanied by a homemade scotch egg and followed by a fruit, custard and cream dessert, should do the trick. There is no point in being on a diet if you opt for the traditional tea here for apart from fantastic sandwiches, there is proper cake, maybe Victoria sponge and carrot cake, a fresh fruit and creme patisserie tart as well as an excellent scone with clotted cream and jam and a decadent cream-filled profiterole. You’d be best to have tea after you have finished sightseeing.
Prism Brasserie London Photo Gallery
Address: 147 Leadenhall Street, London EC3V 4QT
Tel: +44 20 7256 3888
Web: www.harveynichols.com/prism-london
Afternoon tea served: Monday to Friday 12-5.30 pm
Set teas: Traditional Afternoon Tea, Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea
Nearest underground station: Bank
Places of interest nearby: The Bank of England, Cornhill Exchange, The Gherkin, The Lloyds Building, Leadenhall Market, The Monument. St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London
