Fortnum & Mason: St James's Restaurant

 

Tea salon with amazing views along Piccadilly and reputation as being the world's tea specialists.

From the day Fortnum and Mason opened its doors to the nation back in 1707, tea has been one of their main concerns. The St James’s Tearoom opened just a few years after the British discovered their now beloved cuppa. Fortnum’s is the original London tea house; the fabulous food hall downstairs stocks over a century of blends including India, Nepal, Japan, Sri Lanka, along with their own in-house infusions, green teas and all sorts of fruity numbers. Tea tasting really is a fine art and these are the experts with nearly 300 years’ experience. The calm atmosphere, well-spaced tables, pacifying piano and broad view of Piccadilly makes the St James's Tearoom a tranquil haven away from the sea of shoppers outside. St James’s attracts a more mixed clientele than many of London’s other major afternoon tea establishments, so is the perfect option for those who want to experience the elegance of afternoon tea without much of its associated performance and preening. The reputation of Fortnum’s food hall precedes it - the sandwiches and pastries more than live up to expectations. Choose from a Traditional Tea, a Champagne Tea or the more substantial High Tea.

Best for:
Fortnum's famous food hall, in-house infusions, relaxed clientele.

Did you know?
Fortnum's had firm links with the British East India Company – credited with introducing the world’s best teas to Britain.

What to wear?
Dress code is smart casual. Long trousers are obligatory for men. No open toe sandals or beach wear allowed.