Is This The Ultimate Cool Girl Afternoon Tea?

1 day ago

London baker Lily Vanilli is shaking up the British tradition

This post may contain affiliate links. Learn more

Not interested in egg and cress sandwiches and a pot of peppermint? Don’t write afternoon tea off just yet: buzzy East London baker Lily Vanilli has given the quintessentially English tradition a modern spin with an oh-so-aesthetic (and delicious) new offering launching at Four Seasons Hotel at Tower Bridge.

A New Lily Vanilli Afternoon Tea Is Coming To London

Served in the hotel’s Rotunda Bar and Lounge, the experience is all about Basque-inspired savoury snacks, trendy pastel cakes and mini cocktails. Kick off with bite-sized delicacies like the Gilda, a traditional bar snack hailing from San Sebastian made with anchovy, green olive and pickled chilli; parmesan goujères; and feta and spinach savoury scones.

Lily Vanilli is famous for its beautifully designed, colourful cakes made with decadent icing, so of course sweet stuff will play a big part too. Pastries will herald the beginning of spring with pastel colours, with the menu including creme brulée Basque cheesecake served with sour cherry compote, and a tiramisu tart with coffee and brandy-soaked sponge. Lily’s signature cake-like scones will also feature, served with clotted cream and seasonal fruit compote.

On the drinks side, diners can enjoy miniature cocktails (one of this year’s biggest drinks trends), such as the Lily Royale, made with Beluga Noble vodka, cacao, raspberry cordial and champagne. The Salted Espresso, meanwhile, is a twist on the classic espresso martini made with Patrón tequila, Los Siete Misterios mezcal, fresh espresso and salted caramel syrup. There will also be mini martinis and classic cocktails. As the evening draws closer, diners will notice a shift in atmosphere as ‘Aperi-tea’ begins, with the menu changing slightly and adding more cocktails into the mix.

Lily Vanilli founder Lily Jones says: ‘Guests can expect a contemporary spin on both the Lily Vanilli and English classics, all served with a slice of grandeur only the Four Seasons could provide. The aspect I’m most looking forward to seeing come to life is how the vibe evolves over the course of the day, with the evenings bringing great music, dimming lights and a fabulous menu of sweet and savoury bites that perfectly pair with champagne and cocktails. We will also offer a mini version of the menu for anyone who wants a smaller selection – this is an afternoon tea for Londoners – somewhere you can come for drinks after work – or even after dinner!’