What is millennial pink, has a "caviar man," and causes popular bloggers to burst into tears from pure joy? London's Sketch, that's what. After enjoying afternoon tea in the Wes Anderson-esque "pink room," aka the Gallery, I can attest that it is, in fact, worth the hype.
Do it for the 'gram, sure, but also for the experience — it'll literally have you tickled pink!
A few things to keep in mind before you go: it is expensive but comparable to other fancy high teas. You're paying for much more than tea (as you will see), and it's definitely a full meal. The classic afternoon tea is $72 per person, while the Champagne afternoon tea is $90 per person. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance and specify the Gallery, as there are multiple rooms with different food offerings.
The plush pink seating and bubblegum walls are the epitome of Instagram-worthy.
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Tara Block
The cheeky art will keep you entertained while you wait for your server.
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Tara Block
Every detail is perfection.
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Tara Block
The "tea master" will bring over this funky cart and talk you through the different varieties, passing you the leaves in labeled cups for you to smell. She will also inform you about which ones pair best with the different courses.
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Tara Block
One of my favorite teas was the vanilla black. (Also check out the amazing Champagne cart in the background. Definitely need one of those.)
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Tara Block
If you choose to do the Champagne afternoon tea — and I suggest you do — your (adorable) waiter will pour it with flair. This is just one of the many ways Sketch goes above and beyond with service.
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Tara Block
Rosé Champagne is a must, obviously. Pink on pink.
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Tara Block
Speaking of impeccable service. There's, no joke, a "caviar man," who comes to your table — in a pink suit, no less — and educates you on the caviar you're about to consume (where it comes from, the flavor profile, etc.) in addition to some pro tips for how to eat it and in what order.
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Tara Block
The caviar pairs delightfully with the cheesy toast sticks and quail egg, aka egg and soldiers.
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Tara Block
The afternoon tea sandwiches and pastries are almost too pretty to eat. The pistachio profiterole was the standout here.
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Tara Block
In addition to the selection of complex finger sandwiches and desserts, you'll also be served scones with clotted cream and jam and various cakes from a trolley. Needless to say, you get your fair share of carbs. Pace yourself!
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Tara Block
It's not just the endless amount of tea that will have you visiting the bathroom. It's an attraction unto itself! The bathrooms are out of this world . . . literally. Enter your toilet "pod," where you'll hear spaceship sound effects while you do your business.
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Tara Block
The Gallery is only one component of Sketch; each room has a different dining experience and impeccably designed aesthetic. For instance, the Glade, pictured here, has an "enchanted fairy-tale forest" theme and offers breakfast, afternoon tea, comfort food, and evening cocktails. Altogether there are five restaurants and bars.
