London’s afternoon tea scene has a new, intriguing player. Raffles London, situated in the historic War Office building, has launched "Secrets & Spies," an afternoon tea experience that blends culinary delights with a nod to espionage history. This isn’t a themed costume party, but rather a sophisticated affair that subtly weaves in the building’s storied past.
Key Takeaways
- The "Secrets & Spies" afternoon tea is hosted at Raffles London, located in the former War Office.
- The experience is sophisticated and subtle, not a costume party.
- Desserts are inspired by real female SOE agents from WWII.
- Savory items offer traditional elements with thoughtful twists.
- The tea selection is curated, including a special OWO blend and a Churchill blend.
A Taste of Intrigue
The Drawing Room at Raffles London provides an elegant setting for this unique tea. The ambiance, with its velvet furnishings and quiet lighting, evokes a sense of history, fitting for a building that once housed Churchill and was the birthplace of MI9.
The culinary offerings are where the spy theme truly comes alive, though with a refined touch. A standout dessert, "Time to Spy," is a blackcurrant-and-dark-chocolate cake artfully crafted to resemble a 1940s pocket watch. Other sweet creations pay homage to courageous women of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) during World War II, such as Noor Inayat Khan, Odette Sansom, and Violette Szabo. These desserts are designed to subtly reference their stories through flavor and presentation, offering a sophisticated tribute rather than overt sentimentality.
The savory selection maintains a traditional foundation but incorporates thoughtful enhancements. Expect elevated takes on classics like chicken sandwiches with parmesan, smoked salmon cured with beetroot and served with lemon confit, and cucumber sandwiches on rye bread with cream cheese and mint. Honey-roasted ham on caraway bread and egg sandwiches made with Arlington eggs and grain mustard also feature, each prepared with attention to detail.
Curated Sips and Historic Ambiance
The tea selection has been carefully curated to complement the theme. The OWO house blend features black tea with a delicate rose petal note, while the Churchill blend offers a smoky profile with lapsang and a hint of ginger. Familiar options like Darjeeling and Earl Grey are also available, all served with quiet confidence.
The true character of the "Secrets & Spies" experience is deeply rooted in the venue itself. The Drawing Room retains the gravitas of its former life as part of the War Office. The architecture and layout subtly remind guests of the historical significance of the space, where important military briefings once took place. It’s an atmosphere that allows history to whisper rather than shout, creating a memorable and charming afternoon tea.