A Colourful Affair: Afternoon Tea at Mariage Frères, Covent Garden

Tucked away in the heart of Covent Garden lies a true hidden gem for tea aficionados and culinary explorers alike — Mariage Frères, the legendary French tea emporium. With its grand Parisian interiors, iconic black-and-white tiling, and the soft clink of fine china echoing across a sun-drenched tea salon, it’s easy to feel transported straight to the Left Bank of Paris.

But the real magic begins with their French-inspired afternoon tea, a vibrant reimagination of a British classic.

We were served both a savoury and sweet selection, and what arrived was nothing short of edible art. Each plate was bursting with colour and character, delicately composed with flair and bursting with bold, well-balanced flavours. Think: smoked salmon and dill mille-feuille, miniature quiches with truffle and goat cheese, and dainty beetroot and cream cheese roulades — each bite a thoughtful harmony of texture and taste.

The sweet course continued the symphony: jewel-like matcha financiers, tea-infused macarons, delicate rose and lychee tartlets, and the showstopping Earl Grey-infused madeleines — an elegant nod to the maison’s tea mastery.

And speaking of tea — oh, the tea. With a menu boasting over 1,000 varieties, it’s an aromatic journey in itself. We opted for the Marco Polo, a signature black tea with floral and red fruit notes, and the Blanc & Rose, a white tea kissed with rose petals — light, fragrant, and the perfect complement to the rich flavours of the food. Each tea is presented with ceremony, carefully steeped and timed to perfection by staff who clearly live and breathe the art of tea.

Mariage Frères doesn't simply serve afternoon tea — they elevate it into a theatrical, sensory experience, full of French charm, bold creativity, and of course, tea leaves worth travelling for.

The Olive Guide Verdict:

A must-visit for anyone seeking an indulgent yet refined experience in London. Perfect for a long, luxurious catch-up or a quiet solo afternoon of self-care, wrapped in the heady aroma of the world’s finest teas.

Don’t Miss:

– The Marco Polo or Blanc & Rose teas

– The savoury mini quiches and tea-infused desserts

– A browse through their boutique tea wall and curated gift selection post-meal

📍 Address:38 King Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 8JS, United Kingdom

🌐 Website:www.mariagefreres.com