Inspired by the V&A’s “Marie Antoinette: Style” exhibition, five-star London hotel The Kensington serves Let Us Eat Cake, a Marie Antoinette–themed Afternoon Tea in the Drawing Room of its Georgian townhouse near South Kensington.

The Kensington’s Drawing Room is a graceful setting for a themed tea: pale panelling, a crystal chandelier and a gilt mirror over the fireplace create a luxurious backdrop, while coral accents and abundant rose arrangements pick up the Marie Antoinette thread. Duck-egg china and a gold-tasselled, fan-shaped menu give a neat Versailles flourish.

The savoury tier is classical and neatly put together, blurring the lines between traditional and contemporary Afternoon Tea in the best way possible. A soft egg salad on a brioche roll has a subtle richness without feeling heavy. French chicken with tarragon is layered on traditional white bread, the herbal flavours coming through cleanly. Pastrami with horseradish cream and baby rocket on hearty brown bread brings a precise peppery lift. The savoury pink brioche filled with avocado purée, sundried tomato and crumbled feta adds colour and freshness. Together, the set feels balanced and satisfying.

Warm plain and fruit scones arrive tucked beneath linen wraps. They’re soft-crumbed yet hold well, taking The Kensington Hotel's delicious clotted cream and homemade strawberry jam generously. It’s a simple, well-executed course that bridges savouries and sweets smoothly.

The pâtisserie course presents four petite, well-finished pieces in soft pinks and ivory: Le Gâteau du Jardin, an airy strawberry génoise layered with vanilla Chantilly and fresh strawberry, dressed with a striped chocolate collar and sugar tuile; Le Brisé de la Dauphine, a crisp, fan-shaped lemon shortbread that brings a clean citrus pause; La Robe de la Reine, a tartlet of lemon curd topped with smooth blackberry mousse and a white-chocolate “dress,” the curd keeping the mousse bright; and Le Macaron Petit Trianon, almond shells with raspberries and white-chocolate ganache montée, giving a light crack and soft, fruit-forward finish.

The Rare Tea Company selection is classic, from English Breakfast and Earl Grey to green and herbal infusions. Brewing guidance is thoughtful and refills are timely. If you’re celebrating, Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve NV is available by the glass. Or perhaps The Queen’s Coupe - comprised of Belvedere Vodka, Pimm’s, Earl Grey cordial, clarified with clotted cream and finished with Champagne, served with a rose-petal and raspberry rim, pairing incredibly well with the sweets, a must try!

‘Let Us Eat Cake’ is a thoughtful, well-crafted, delicious Afternoon Tea, with precise sandwiches, warm scones and patisserie, all served in a room that suits the theme beautifully.

Available from 20th September 2025, find out more the ‘Let Us Eat Cake’ menu and The Kensington Hotel here.