Six of the best Power Tea venues
TeaSpoon+ at Sanderson
50 Berners Street, W1 (020 7300 1400)
In the vanguard of the new Power Tea movement, TeaSpoon+ offers the fashion tea of the moment. A selection of speciality leaf teas, sandwiches and berry compote, plus a glass of champagne, costs £25.
Le M?ridien Piccadilly
Piccadilly, W1 (020 7851 3100)
A plush, opulent room where customers are entertained by pianists and harpists while consuming the usual finger sandwiches, scones and French pastries. Tea costs £23.50.
Connaught Hotel Carlos Place, W1 (020 7499 7070)
The most discreet of the Power Tea venues. In the Connaught's recently refurbished drawing room, the menu includes tomato, egg and smoked-salmon sandwiches, plus scones and fruit cake, for £25.
The Ritz
Piccadilly, W1 (020 7493 8181)
The Ritz's Palm Court is the spiritual home of afternoon tea. Always an impressive venue, particularly for visiting relatives up from the country. For £27 you get a selection of sandwiches, pastries and scones.
Brown's Hotel
30 Albemarle Street, W1 (020 7493 6020)
Famed tea venue, frequented by the Power Tea Set. A tea of finger sandwiches, egg muffins and French pastries, served in a series of intimate, darkened niches, costs from £23.
