Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens Hotel

4.5

65 Reviews

£41 and over

Afternoon Tea

Make a booking

2 people

21 Dec 2024

19:00

Booked 1 time today

Experiences are available.

Great for brunch
Charming
Fancy

Indulge in the epitome of a quintessential English Afternoon Tea experience at The Rubens at the Palace, where refinement meets tradition. Immerse yourself in the charming ambience of our Palace Lounge, offering panoramic views of the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace, or enjoy your tea within the opulent surroundings of our exquisitely designed English Grill.

At the helm of our pastry kitchen is the exceptionally talented Sarah Houghting, a pastry chef of distinction who has showcased her skills on Bake Off: The Professionals on Channel 4. Sarah takes pride in crafting the freshest pastries and cakes, ensuring a delightful feast for our discerning guests.

Renowned as one of London's finest Afternoon Teas, we honour the classic British tradition while infusing innovative twists to captivate your palate. Our commitment extends to catering for diverse dietary preferences, with thoughtfully curated menus that include vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal choices.

Order delivery or takeout

Private dining

Book your next event with us

View details

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Elegant
Price
£41 and over
Cuisines
Afternoon Tea
Hours of Operation
Mon–Fri, Sun 12:00 pm–5:00 pm Sat 12:00 pm–6:00 pm
Phone number
020 7834 6600
Website
http://www.rubenshotel.com/
Payment Options
AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Smart Casual
Executive Chef
Ben Kelliher
Private party facilities
Whatever the occasion The Rubens offers the perfect venue for your afternoon tea celebration. With our Events Manager, your function will be meticulously planned and executed, with personalised menus, bespoke themes, and thoughtful touches that reflect your unique style and preferences.
Private party contact
Meetings and Events at The Rubens: 020 7834 6600

Location
39 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0PS
Area
Victoria
Cross Street
Bressenden Place
Parking details
Valet
Public transit
The Queen’s Gallery: 1-minute walk The Royal Mews: 1-minute walk Victoria Station:2-minute walkVictoria Palace Theatre (Hamilton): 5-minute walk Buckingham Palace: 6-minute walk Apollo Victoria Theatre (Wicked): 6-minute walk Westminster Abbey: 4-minute cab ride Palace of Westminster: 7-minute cab ride Oxford Street: 10-minute tube journey West End theatre district: 14-minute cab rideValet parking is available at the nearby secure car park with a charge of £50 for up to four hours or £70 per 24-hours, available daily with our concierge team from 8am to 8pm. Should the value of your car exceed £300,000 please contact us directly.
Additional
Dog Friendly, Gluten-free Options, Indoor Fireplace, Vegan

Experiences

Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea
£45.00 - £127.00 per person
18 Nov 2024 - 5 Jan 2025
Enjoy the festive version of this traditional English occasion at The Rubens at the Palace overlooking the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace. The pastry kitchen at The Rubens is led by our Executive Head Pastry Chef Sarah Houghting, producing unique, delectable pastries for our guests to enjoy. With a reputation as one of the best in London, we pay respect to the tradition of Afternoon Tea whilst incorporating fresh twists along the way. Our delicious Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea features mouth-watering seasonal pastries, finger sandwiches and scones. £82 per adult including a glass of mulled wine; add a glass of champagne: £102; bottomless champagne: £127; £45 children under 12
Little Prince and Princess Afternoon Tea
13 Dec 2024 - 5 Jan 2025
Our Prince and Princess Afternoon Tea includes bite-size sandwiches, freshly baked scones, pastries, and a choice of milkshake, hot chocolate, tea or soft drink. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Expect a scrumptious feast of seasonal flavours that pay tribute to the English tradition of Afternoon Tea, including a glass of mulled wine and if you're dining on Christmas Day, a glass of champagne. Time: Sunday to Friday 12 to 5pm, Saturday 12 to 6pm and on New Years Day 12 to 5.30pm Prices: £82 per adult with a glass of mulled wine, £102 with a glass of mulled wine and a glass of champagne, £127 bottomless champagne, £45 children under 12
Winter Wonderland Christmas Day Afternoon Tea
£55.00 - £105.00 per person
Prepaid
25 Dec 2024 only
Enjoy a festive twist on our award-winning Afternoon Tea, specially curated by our Executive Pastry Chef Sarah Houghting, who was a finalist in Bake Off: The Professionals. Expect a scrumptious feast of cakes, pastries, and seasonal flavours that pay tribute to the long-standing English tradition of Afternoon Tea, including a glass of mulled wine and if you're dining on Christmas Day, a glass of Champagne. Set against the tranquil backdrop of live piano in The Palace Lounge. The Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea is served between 12-5pm Price: £105 per adult including a glass of champagne; £55 children under 12. Non-alcoholic alternatives are available. Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal and Gluten Free Menus are also available

Traditional Plain
Fruit
Served with Pear and Cinnamon Preserves, Lemon Curd & Clotted Cream
Plain | Spiced Fruit | Cheese
Served with Pear and Cinnamon Preserve, Lemon Curd & Clotted Cream
Plain | Spiced Fruit | Cheese Scones
Served with Pear and Cinnamon Preserve, Lemon Curd & Clotted Cream
Plain Scone
Served with Pear and Cinnamon Preserve, Lemon Curd & Clotted Cream
Spiced Fruit Scone
Served with Pear and Cinnamon Preserve, Lemon Curd & Clotted Cream
Cheese Scone
Served with Pear and Cinnamon Preserve, Lemon Curd & Clotted Cream
Plain Scone
Served with Pear and Cinnamon Preserve, Lemon Curd & Clotted Cream
Spiced Fruit Scone
Served with Pear and Cinnamon Preserve, Lemon Curd & Clotted Cream
Cheese Scone
Served with Pear and Cinnamon Preserve, Lemon Curd & Clotted Cream
Plain | Spiced Fruit | Cheese Scones
Served with Pear and Cinnamon Preserve, Lemon Curd & Clotted Cream

Pastries

Santa’s Hat
Red Velvet Cupcake, Cream Cheese Frosting
Doughnut Wreath
Chocolate Glaze, Pistachio Whip
Gingerbread Man
Ginger-Spice, Vanilla Marshmallow

Savoury

Spicy Egg Mayonnaise & Mustard Cress
on Brown Bread
Smoked Salmon, Caviar & Chive Cream Cheese
on Capseed Loaf
Cucumber, Apple and Minted Goats Cheese Cream
on Norfolk Crumb
Chicken and Grain Mustard Mayonnaise, Toasted Almonds
on White Bread
Barber's Cheddar Cheese & Plum Tomato
on Onion Bread
Roast Turkey, Cranberry Mayonnaise
Smoked Salmon, Caviar & Chive Cream Cheese
Cucumber, Apple and Minted Goats Cheese Cream
Roast Beef Sirloin & Horseradish
Barber's Cheddar Cheese & Tomato
Spicy Tofu Egg Mayonnaise & Mustard Cress
Cucumber, Mint Cream Cheese
on Norfolk Crumb
Tindle Chicken Sandwich, Toasted Almonds
on White Bread
Baba Ghanoush, Grilled Vegetables, Vegan Parmesan
on Spinach Bread
Vegan Cheddar Cheese & Plum Tomato
on Onion Bread
Spicy Egg Mayonnaise & Mustard Cress
on Brown Bread
Cucumber, Apple and Minted Goats Cheese Cream
on Norfolk Crumb
Tindle Chicken Sandwich, Toasted Almonds
on White Bread
Baba Ganoush, Grilled Vegetables, Vegan Parmesan
on Spinach Bread
Barber's Cheddar Cheese & Plum Tomato
on Onion Bread
Roast Turkey & Stuffing, Cranberry Mayonnaise
on Charcoal Bread
Smoked Salmon, Caviar & Chive Cream Cheese
on Capered Loaf
Cucumber, Apple and Minted Goats Cheese Cream
on Norfolk Crumb
Roast Beef Sirloin & Horseradish
on Beetroot Bread
Barber's Cheddar Cheese & Plum Tomato
on Onion Bread

Sweet

Chestnut Tart
Clementine Jelly, Chestnut Frangipane
Coffee Caramel Swiss Roll
Chocolate Sponge, Millet Nougatine
Cranberry and Vanilla Cheesecake
Ivoire and Biscuit Crumb
Almond Profiterole
Almond Whipped Ganache, Cinnamon Toffee Apple
Chestnut Tart
Clementine Jelly, Chestnut Frangipane
Coffee Caramel Delice
Chocolate Sponge, Millet Namelaka
Cranberry and Vanilla Cheesecake
Ivoire and Biscuit Crumb
Almond Profiterole
Almond Whipped Ganache, Cinnamon Toffee Apple
Chestnut Tart
Clementine Jelly, Chestnut Frangipane
Coffee Caramel Delice
Chocolate Sponge, Malt Ganache
Vanilla and Cranberry Cheesecake
Cranberry Compote, Oat Biscuit Crumb
Almond Financier
Amaretto Whipped Ganache, Toffee Apple Gel
Chestnut Tart
Clementine Jelly, Chestnut Frangipane
Coffee Caramel Delice
Chocolate Sponge, Malt Ganache
Vanilla and Cranberry Cheesecake
Cranberry Compote, Oat Biscuit Crumb
Almond Financier
Amaretto Whipped Ganache, Toffee Apple Gel
Chestnut Tart
Clementine Jelly, Chestnut Frangipane
Coffee Caramel Swiss Roll
Chocolate Sponge, Millet Nankhatai
Cranberry and Vanilla Cheesecake
Ivory and Biscuit Crumb
Almond Profiterole
Almond Whipped Ganache, Cinnamon Toffee Apple

Afternoon Tea Options

Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea£82.00
Champagne Afternoon Tea£102.00
Bottomless Champagne Afternoon Tea£127.00
Vegan Champagne Afternoon Tea£102.00
Halal Sparkling Afternoon Tea£99.00
Prince & Princess Afternoon Tea£45.00
Christmas Day Champagne Afternoon Tea£105.00
Christmas Day Prince & Princess Afternoon Tea£55.00

What 65 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.5

4.5 based on recent ratings

4.4Food
4.6Service
4.6Ambience
4Value

Noise • Moderate

65 Reviews

J
Julissa
Central Coast
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 27 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We loved our afternoon tea experience. It hit all the marks for food, service and atmosphere.
Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens HotelResponded 2 days ago
Thank you for taking the time to share your review following your recent visit for Afternoon Tea. As much valued guests I am delighted to read that you loved your experience with us. Feedback such as yours serves as great motivation for our team and I will be thrilled to share this with them. I do hope that we may have the opportunity to welcome you back one day. Warm regards, Malcolm Hendry, Managing Director.
Is this helpful?
s
steve
Oxford
5 reviews
1.0
5 reviews
Dined on 22 September 2024
1. Overall 1
2. Food 1
3. Service 3
4. Ambience 3
Compared to other high end teas this fell down on food quality - uninspiring sandwiches, dry scones, limited cake variation etc
Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens HotelResponded on 30 September 2024
Thank you for sharing your review following your recent visit. I am very sorry that we did not meet your expectations with regards to your Afternoon Tea experience. We appreciate all feedback and I will be sure to pass this on to our Kitchen Team so that they can take your comments on board, as we continuously work hard to improve the facilities and services we provide. I do hope that one day we may have the chance to welcome you back. Warm regards, Malcolm Hendry, Managing Director.
Is this helpful?
SA
SharonA
Orange County
8 reviews
5.0
8 reviews
Dined on 23 June 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
A family favorite, we always try to have afternoon tea at the palace lounge on trips to London.
Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens HotelResponded on 4 July 2024
Thank you for your wonderful review following your recent visit. As regular and much valued guests I am delighted that we have once again met your expectations and our Afternoon Tea continues to be a family favourite! I will be thrilled to share your kind words with our team, ensuring their hard work is duly noted. We look forward to welcoming you back when you next visit London! Best regards, Malcolm Hendry, Managing Director.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
New Mexico
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 27 April 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Welcoming, attentive staff. Beautiful presentation & environment.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
London
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on 15 April 2024
1. Overall 3
2. Food 3
3. Service 2
4. Ambience 5
Beautiful hotel, beautifully presented Afternoon tea. Service was a little slow but plentiful food and wonderful scones Very disappointed when the bill arrived that 15% service charge was applied!! Thank goodness this is discretionally I was happy to tip £10
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
London
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 10 March 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Absolutely outstanding experience. From the delicious food, to the ambience, to the personable service. All of our needs were catered to and the environment was calm and cosy. We will definitely be back.
Is this helpful?
S
Sophi
New York City
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on 10 March 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Lovely experience. Delicious afternoon tea. Caters to different options - gluten free, vegan, kids, & more. Live pianist was excellent. Shout out to Aby for her friendliness & professionalism. Highly recommend.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
London
1 review
1.0
1 review
Dined on 10 March 2024
1. Overall 1
2. Food 1
3. Service 1
4. Ambience 1
Sadly awful service from Carlota on Mother’s Day - mean to my mum and myself. Very disappointing as we’ve had many lovely celebrations and events there in the past. Not again.
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M
Marjorie
Birmingham
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on 14 February 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Booked for my parents anniversary and the absolutely loved it.
Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens HotelResponded on 28 October 2024
Thank you for sharing your positive review following your parents' recent visit for Afternoon Tea. It is wonderful to read that they loved their special anniversary celebration with us and I will be thrilled to share this with our team. I do hope that we have the opportunity to welcome them back one day soon. Warm regards, Malcolm Hendry, Managing Director.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
VIP
New York City
43 reviews
3.0
43 reviews
Dined on 26 December 2023
1. Overall 3
2. Food 3
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
Came for afternoon winter tea. It was just okay. Over priced. Amazing service. Wouldn’t do it again
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FAQs

Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens Hotel offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at 020 7834 6600.

Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens Hotel is rated 4.5 stars by 65 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a booking

2 people

21 Dec 2024

19:00

Booked 1 time today

Experiences are available.

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens Hotel

39 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0PS

Additional information

Cross Street
Bressenden Place
Area
Victoria
Hours of Operation
Mon–Fri, Sun 12:00 pm–5:00 pm Sat 12:00 pm–6:00 pm
Price
£41 and over
Cuisines
Afternoon Tea
Dining style
Casual Elegant
Dress code
Smart Casual
Parking details
Valet
Public transit
The Queen’s Gallery: 1-minute walk The Royal Mews: 1-minute walk Victoria Station:2-minute walkVictoria Palace Theatre (Hamilton): 5-minute walk Buckingham Palace: 6-minute walk Apollo Victoria Theatre (Wicked): 6-minute walk Westminster Abbey: 4-minute cab ride Palace of Westminster: 7-minute cab ride Oxford Street: 10-minute tube journey West End theatre district: 14-minute cab rideValet parking is available at the nearby secure car park with a charge of £50 for up to four hours or £70 per 24-hours, available daily with our concierge team from 8am to 8pm. Should the value of your car exceed £300,000 please contact us directly.
Payment Options
AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
Executive Chef
Ben Kelliher
Additional
Dog Friendly, Gluten-free Options, Indoor Fireplace, Vegan

Website
http://www.rubenshotel.com/
Phone number
020 7834 6600
Private party facilities
Whatever the occasion The Rubens offers the perfect venue for your afternoon tea celebration. With our Events Manager, your function will be meticulously planned and executed, with personalised menus, bespoke themes, and thoughtful touches that reflect your unique style and preferences.
Private party contact
Meetings and Events at The Rubens: 020 7834 6600

Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens Hotel

Make a booking

Order delivery or takeout

Private dining

Additional information

Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea

Little Prince and Princess Afternoon Tea

Winter Wonderland Christmas Day Afternoon Tea

Sandwiches

Raspberry Jam & Smooth Peanut Butter

Smoked Ham & Cheddar Cheese

Roast Chicken, Basil Pesto

Roasted Hazelnut Spread

Burford Brown Egg Mayonnaise

Scones

Traditional Plain

Fruit

Plain | Spiced Fruit | Cheese

Plain | Spiced Fruit | Cheese Scones

Plain Scone

Spiced Fruit Scone

Cheese Scone

Plain Scone

Spiced Fruit Scone

Cheese Scone

Plain | Spiced Fruit | Cheese Scones

Pastries

Santa’s Hat

Doughnut Wreath

Gingerbread Man

Savoury

Spicy Egg Mayonnaise & Mustard Cress

Smoked Salmon, Caviar & Chive Cream Cheese

Cucumber, Apple and Minted Goats Cheese Cream

Chicken and Grain Mustard Mayonnaise, Toasted Almonds

Barber's Cheddar Cheese & Plum Tomato

Roast Turkey, Cranberry Mayonnaise

Smoked Salmon, Caviar & Chive Cream Cheese

Cucumber, Apple and Minted Goats Cheese Cream

Roast Beef Sirloin & Horseradish

Barber's Cheddar Cheese & Tomato

Spicy Tofu Egg Mayonnaise & Mustard Cress

Cucumber, Mint Cream Cheese

Tindle Chicken Sandwich, Toasted Almonds

Baba Ghanoush, Grilled Vegetables, Vegan Parmesan

Vegan Cheddar Cheese & Plum Tomato

Spicy Egg Mayonnaise & Mustard Cress

Cucumber, Apple and Minted Goats Cheese Cream

Tindle Chicken Sandwich, Toasted Almonds

Baba Ganoush, Grilled Vegetables, Vegan Parmesan

Barber's Cheddar Cheese & Plum Tomato

Roast Turkey & Stuffing, Cranberry Mayonnaise

Smoked Salmon, Caviar & Chive Cream Cheese

Cucumber, Apple and Minted Goats Cheese Cream

Roast Beef Sirloin & Horseradish

Barber's Cheddar Cheese & Plum Tomato

Sweet

Chestnut Tart

Coffee Caramel Swiss Roll

Cranberry and Vanilla Cheesecake

Almond Profiterole

Chestnut Tart

Clementine Jelly, Chestnut Frangipane

Coffee Caramel Delice

Chocolate Sponge, Millet Namelaka

Cranberry and Vanilla Cheesecake

Almond Profiterole

Chestnut Tart

Coffee Caramel Delice

Vanilla and Cranberry Cheesecake

Almond Financier

Chestnut Tart

Coffee Caramel Delice

Vanilla and Cranberry Cheesecake

Almond Financier

Chestnut Tart

Coffee Caramel Swiss Roll

Cranberry and Vanilla Cheesecake

Almond Profiterole

Afternoon Tea Options