Kona Afternoon Tea

£98 - £120 / British, Contemporary

51 Buckingham Gate, London

Awards

Excellent Seafood 2024

Opening hours

Closed

Sunday 12PM-5:30PM
Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 12PM-5:30PM
Friday 12PM-5:30PM
Saturday 12PM-5:30PM

Enchanting Tea Experience Amidst Secret Gardens

Kona at The Taj St. James's, nestled in the heart of London, is not just an afternoon tea; it's an experience that dances delightfully between whimsical and lavish—a clear homage to its Secret Garden theme. Stepping into this serene abode feels like uncovering a hidden gem amidst the capital's bustling streets. Gently floral notes greet you as you settle in, the decor rich with meticulous attention to detail—an admirable blend of grandeur and whimsy. The menu is an enchanting narrative in itself, each section of the afternoon bursting with surprises that tease your taste buds elegantly.

The selection is exquisitely varied, though the nasal tea and jasmine blends, especially, crowd-pleasers among frequent patrons. My journey through their delicately spiced snacks was both unexpected and extraordinary—the Indian flavors bringing a refreshing twist to traditional tea-time fair. Complemented by hospitable mastery—courtesy of superb servers like Arzan, Shruti, and Abi who bring graciousness to every interaction—you are ensured an experience that's not only gustatorily but holistically fulfilling. For any aficionado of afternoon tea, Kona is a delightful bloom in the dense garden of London's culinary scenes, reminding one of the power found in the union of excellent service, innovative cuisine, and enchanting storytelling. — Audrey Al Dente