Location: Jumeirah Carlton Tower Afternoon Tea by Eric Lanlard, master patissier and star of Channel 4's Baking Mad.
Why go: 'Rêves d'Orient' goes beyond the usual cucumber sandwiches and scones. This is culinary aesthetics at its best: a stylish stand filled with sweet and savoury treats inspired by the Orient and Middle East, via the chef's native France. Your seating area is even scented with a subtly perfumed mist to ensure a full sensory experience.
Who goes there: Guests of the hotel, local residents or shoppers in the know - it's slightly hidden, just off Cadogan Place.
What to wear: You're in the heart of Knightsbridge so we suggest you leave your jeans and trainers behind.
What we ate: From traditional favourites with a twist like egg mayonnaise in brioche buns and cucumber sandwiches as a roulade, to pistachio financiers with rose-flavoured cream, lemon tart with raspberries and cones of chocolate ganache topped with Persian candy floss (completely unlike the fairground favourite, and all the more delicious). We didn't finish everything so were given a stylish take-home box for the remaining treats.
Why EL loves: It feels like a gourmet experience with exciting new flavours, but there are still the best elements of the traditional English tea - the cream scones remain their delicious, straightforward self.
Address: Chinoiserie, Jumeirah Carlton Tower, Cadogan Place, London SW1X 9PY. Jumeirahcarltontower.com
