Pret A Portea at The Berkeley

One thing that always astonishes me about London, or any city really, are the experiences and places that exist right under your nose without you ever noticing.

I have so many of you email me, excited with news of a forthcoming trip to London – and you want to know: where to visit, where to shop, which places are a must-see that only a local would potentially know about?

This got me thinking. Though I’ve lived in London for most of my life, I’m guilty of frequenting the same few places – because they are tried and tested…and good!

"It’s this word-of-mouth, sharing knowledge format that has seen me steadily grow my “favorite places to visit” list."

But what I really love are the occasions when friends or colleagues take me to their favorite haunts. It’s this word-of-mouth, sharing knowledge format that has seen me steadily grow my “favorite places to visit” list.

Great examples are Ayla & Gilda, sharing Mews of Mayfair with me – perfect on a Summer’s Day, sitting outside in the narrow cobbled passageway, watching the world go by and sipping on one of their beautiful chilled cocktails.

Or Emma, who 9 years ago, took me to a very plain looking little restaurant in Marlow called The Hand & Flowers. She said nothing, but watched at my face as the food arrived and I took my first bite…
I soon found out that this restaurant, which looked very humble with its mismatched chairs and a few handpicked flowers on that tables – in fact boasted a Michelin Star.

The food was a theatre, and the unassuming atmosphere only doubled to make it feel like you’d found a diamond in the most unlikely location.

So this leads me on to a place I believe anyone who is into their fashion & luxury experiences should try – Pret A Portea at The Berkeley.

"The menu changes in-line with the fashion seasons, and desserts are updated to depict key trends seen on the runway."

Introduced to me over 10 years ago by my now husband; Pret A Portea is a beautiful, delicious, luxurious fashion-themed Afternoon Tea served at The Berkeley Hotel in London.

The menu changes in-line with the fashion seasons, and desserts are updated to depict key trends seen on the runway.

Begin your experience with a glass of Champagne, and select a tea from the wide range on offer. A beautiful selection of sandwiches arrive (of which gluten-free options are available), before you are taken onto the good stuff – the dessert!

£52 per person, served daily 1pm – 5.30pm. The dress code is elegant smart casual.

Reservation is required, and it can get quite booked-up.

The Berkeley, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7RL

+44 (0)20 7235 6000