I recently had the joy of indulging in afternoon tea at Engel and Jang - and it was simply magnificent.
Tucked beneath the grand arches of The Royal Exchange, this elegant new experience is pure magic. Picture this: nibbling on exquisite cakes and sipping champagne in the company of Queen Victoria, King John, and King Richard III - all immortalised in the 24 historic murals that line the walls of this iconic London landmark.
It felt like slipping into a regal daydream, all while the vibrant energy of the city pulsed just beyond.
This isn’t your average afternoon tea. The Engel and Jang Afternoon Tea has been expertly crafted by pastry chef Lorena Tommasi, whose impressive résumé includes the Caprice Group, Jeremy King’s restaurants, and Claude Bosi.
She’s created a refined yet playful menu, full of elegance and flair, served with a touch of theatrical charm. In a delightful twist, the Afternoon Tea is served on a silver stork, lending a whimsical flourish to an experience that’s already elegant, imaginative, and beautifully curated.
The menu struck a perfect balance between savoury and sweet. I started with open sandwiches: smoked salmon with trout mousse and pickled cucumber, prettily topped with nasturtium flowers; roast beef with celeriac remoulade and rocket, adorned with edible allium blossoms; and a vibrant plant-based option of pickled beetroot, hummus, and baby spinach, brightened with calendula petals. Each bite was as thoughtful as it was delicious.
Then came the showstoppers: Lorena’s cake. From a decadently rich sachertorte to delicate apple choux and a trio of seasonal tartlets (think zingy lemon and fresh fruit), everything was executed with finesse. The highlight for me? A moist, flavourful slice of Three O’Clock Coffee Cake; a beautiful nod to British tradition with a luxe twist.
Of course, no afternoon tea is complete without scones, and Engel and Jang delivers. Both plain and cheese scones served warm, with strawberry jam and clotted cream, a classic done just right.
To accompany all of this, I chose from a tea menu by JING that offered everything from traditional English Breakfast to herbal options like chamomile, peppermint, and blackcurrant hibiscus. I also indulged in a glass of Hattingley English Sparkling Wine, because, really, what’s afternoon tea without a bit of bubbly?
Set on the mezzanine level of The Royal Exchange, the ambiance is breathtaking. It’s the perfect vantage point to soak in the grandeur of this Grade I listed building while enjoying a leisurely pause in the middle of the city. Whether you're popping in post-meeting or catching up with friends, it feels both special and accessible.
A fabulous new addition to London’s afternoon tea scene; I’ll definitely be back.