116 at the Athenaeum

£36 / British, European

116 Piccadilly, London

Opening hours

7AM-10:30PM

Sunday 7AM-2:30PM
Monday 7AM-9:30PM
Tuesday 7AM-9:30PM
Wednesday 7AM-9:30PM
Thursday 7AM-9:30PM
Friday 7AM-10:30PM
Saturday 7AM-10:30PM

Impeccable High Tea: Unmatched Creativity & Service

Tucked away just a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace, my recent visit to this delightful gem of a restaurant was nothing short of enchanting. The afternoon high tea is their crowning jewel - a gastronomic delight that marries traditional fare with innovative twists. The scones, golden and crumbly, could start a torrid love affair alone. Each sandwich was an individual masterpiece, crafted with evident care and creativity. Desserts were the literal icing on the cake, not just treats but works of sugary art warranting a museum exhibit. I certainly could see myself standing on a pedestal, proclaiming praise for these delicacies.

Service here swept me off my dining feet; whether it was handling dietary requests with finesse or sprinkling an Irish charm generously (here's looking at you, Amanda), the staff was a crucial ingredient to the memorable experience. Ensconced outside in sunny glory, despite the marginal wait for drinks, the breeze paired sublimely with our meals. The vegan and pescatarian menus danced across the table with flair if not exactly filling fortitude, while the club sandwiches and rib-eye steak provided tried-and-true satisfaction. Even those minor hiccups seemed trivial against the backdrop of a venue that made each celebration feel personal, thanks to its capable staff and charming atmosphere. If you want to dazzle yourself or event guests, this place is as royal as it gets. And don’t worry, there’s space enough for strollers—expected chaos notwithstanding! — Milo Tastemaker