Tucked away in Aldwych, just off Covent Garden, The Delaunay offers a weekend afternoon tea that combines British tradition with a touch of Viennese flair. As the more approachable sibling of the luxurious Wolseley, The Delaunay provides a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a great spot for a leisurely catch-up.
A Brief History of The Delaunay
Opened in 2011 by renowned restaurateurs Chris Corbin and Jeremy King, The Delaunay draws inspiration from the grand cafés of Europe. Its design and menu reflect a blend of French and Central European influences, creating a unique dining experience in the heart of London.
Afternoon Tea Experience
Our afternoon tea began with a selection of finger sandwiches featuring classic fillings like smoked salmon, chicken, cheese and pickle, and egg mayonnaise. While the sandwiches were enjoyable, one or two were slightly dry, though this wasn’t a major concern. The scones, both fruit and plain, were served warm under a silver dome, accompanied by homemade strawberry jam and clotted cream—a delightful combination. The patisserie selection included a chocolate sachertorte, a pistachio and poppy seed cake with raspberry icing, and a cheesecake, all of which were homemade and very good. We didn’t ask for seconds of anything although we were a bit short on clotted cream and jam but our tea pots were regularly refreshed.
Service and Ambience
The Delaunay’s interior exudes a subtle glamour, reminiscent of a grand European café. The tea service was popular, with many other tables enjoying it. Service was attentive but not obtrusive, allowing us to chat to each other and the next table without feeling rushed. We had two hours there before we were asked to finish before the dinner service. It was relaxed and leisurely and the perfect place for a catch-up but definitely lacking in the grandeur of The Wolseley.
A Budget-Friendly Alternative: The Delaunay Counter
For those seeking a similar experience on a more modest budget the Delaunay Counter offers an enticing alternative.Adjacent to the main restaurant, this café serves classic European dishes, regional wines, and beers in a relaxed setting.Their cake and tea offer, priced at £9.95, includes a pot of tea and a selection of homemade cakes, providing excellent value without compromising on quality.
Plan Your Visit
- Address: 55 Aldwych, London, WC2B 4BB
- Website: thedelaunay.com
- Telephone: 020 7499 8558
- Nearest Tube: Covent Garden
Our Final Thoughts
The Delaunay’s afternoon tea offers a pleasant fusion of British and European culinary traditions in an elegant setting.While it may not have the grandeur of The Wolseley, it provides a charming and more accessible alternative for those seeking a refined afternoon tea experience. For an even more budget-friendly option, The Delaunay Counter’s cake and tea offer is a hidden gem worth exploring.
If you are an afternoon tea enthusiast you may find the limited selection of teas frustrating. And the sandwiches lacked the wow factor but this is offset by the attentive service, home-made patisserie and glam olde world almost library-ish ambience. However the next time that I am in Aldwych instead of having the full afternoon tea works in the main restaurant I will be looking for more budget conscious options at the Delaunay Counter.
