Rubens at the Palace: A Royal Afternoon Tea Review

Afternoon tea, well, it’s an absolute British institution, right? And there’s something extra special about having it near Buckingham Palace. I mean, you’re practically soaking up the royal vibes as you sip your tea! Getting tea at The Rubens, very near the palace, seems it takes that experience to a completely different level. You could say I was very excited to find out if the hype was real, you know? Was this experience truly fit for royalty—or at least someone who wants to feel like royalty for a couple of hours? Keep reading, that’s what you should do if you’re thinking about going, or just fancy a little armchair travel, and that, hopefully, it’s what you’ll get!

First Impressions: Setting the Scene

Okay, so walking into The Rubens at the Palace, well, that’s quite something. You know, the location is obviously amazing, almost smack-bang opposite the Royal Mews. The hotel, too, it gives off a really elegant, very classic vibe as soon as you step inside. That decoration, I want to say it felt grand, but without feeling stuffy, if that makes sense? That reception, very warm, and that staff, pretty friendly and efficient, I found. And I suppose, that sort of set the tone for what, hopefully, was a super experience. I was shown to The Palace Lounge, where afternoon tea happens, and it had these views of the Royal Mews – people love to point this out!. Check it out online if you want to get an idea of the decor before going.

The Tea Selection: A Brew for Every Mood

Right, let’s talk tea, yeah? The Rubens, you see, they have a pretty impressive selection – too it seems like there’s very something for every tea lover. Now, I am usually, a bit of an Earl Grey person, and you should consider it, but I thought, as a treat I’d be adventurous. So, well I asked the server for a recommendation, and they pointed me in the direction of a very special blend created for the hotel. That aroma was so fragrant, and the taste was super smooth and delicious. You get unlimited tea, too its worth pointing out, so, really you could try a few different ones if you wanted to, you know? It’s all part of the experience! Tea at Rubens at the Palace allows a true taste sensation.

The Food: A Tiered Delight

Ah, now this is the exciting bit, almost isn’t it? That food, that’s what people are interested in! When that tiered stand arrives, well, I can tell you, my eyes lit up. First, those sandwiches, yeah? All the classics were there, a bit, like cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon, that chicken, but the bread, you know, was super fresh, and that fillings were generous and full of flavor. Crusts off, of course – very proper! The scones, warm, almost straight from the oven, and served with clotted cream and jam. Both, very very delicious. As you may have predicted, the highlight, actually was the pastries, little works of art, very nearly too pretty to eat! These flavors, all amazing, and they were obviously made with so much care. One more thing, they catered brilliantly for my friend’s dietary needs. No fuss, no problem at all, actually – something, I think, it is very important. Afternoon Tea booking, is definitely worthwhile.

The Service: Fit for Royalty

Let me tell you, those staff at The Rubens, they, that’s what really makes the experience amazing. From when you arrive until you leave, that, you really do feel like a valued guest, well you can argue. Everyone, helpful, very polite, and really attentive without being intrusive. That server, they explained all the teas and the food, answered all our questions, and just generally seemed they wanted to make sure we were having a wonderful time. The service was just impeccable, seemingly. Make reservations online or via phone call.