5. Palm Court

You can do a lot better than the Ritz. You can book for what ever time you like, but you will be seated at half past the hour, with everyone else. Service is like a conveyor belt. If you ask for anything a little out of the ordinary, you may feel you are a nuisance. We asked for a plate of sandwiches without any meat. When the tea stand arrived, there was ham and chicken sandwiches. We asked again, and the waiter appeared most put out, banging the teapots on the table, to get to plate to remove it. When the next seating is due, the waiters start to come around to the table, interrupting conversations, asking if you are going to eat the rest of your cakes. I have had much nicer afternoon teas elsewhere.

The Palm Court is a very elegant setting. The quality of the food and tea was very high. Unfortunately our waiter had an attitude that should have him fired. One of my guests had coffee (doesn't drink tea!) and the waiter knocked the cup over spilling the contents on the table top. He did not seem too perturbed and we had to ask him to cover the large wet area with a clean napkin. Anywhere else would have had the whole cloth efficiently replaced in seconds. It spoiled the whole aura for us.

It is worth the experience...Perhaps some may think it's a bit pricey for afternoon tea, but you will not be disappointed! The room, the food and the staff are beyond words....Enjoy!