In the name of research, Louise Allen-Taylor was helped by friends as she tucked into some fine fare at the Radisson Blu Edwardian.
Around 20 years ago, afternoon tea was a custom which, largely, seemed consigned to the past.
It was something that genteel old ladies, possibly wearing twinset and pearls, would enjoy in old-fashioned guest houses or the very grandest hotels. But then something happened and the popularity of afternoon tea was re-established.
It still seems to be a treat enjoyed by ladies, rather than chaps, and we’re now spoilt for choice: you can have a decent afternoon tea in thousands of restaurants, hotels, tea rooms and farm shops up and down the country. We seem to all make an outing of it, and why not?
We are now spolit for choice. How do you decide which venue to choose, especially if you want to be sure of something extra special when the occasion demands? There’s Residence in Nantwich which has a super afternoon tea, the Chester Grosvenor and the Alderley Edge Hotel; but those locations aren’t convenient for the group of friends I had a date with. No problem. One of my favourite places for this daytime delight is the Radissson Blu Edwardian Hotel in Manchester.
It is, of course, the former Free Trade Hall so it’s a grand setting. There are echoes of its musical past all around. We are seated in the elegant Opus One restaurant window area and indulge in a delicious selection of sandwiches (smoked salmon, egg mayo to name two) pastries and scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam. It was all served with a choice of specialty coffees and teas...and our celebration demanded champagne too.
As well as serving the traditional afternoon tea, two of our party tucked into the hearty Gentleman’s Afternoon tea, with mini steak and ale pies, chicken slider with mini fish and chips, sandwiches and scones. Both versions were £22.50 per person (without champagne). You can add a glass of Prosecco for £29.50 per person or pint of beer.
We had a delightful time. Recommended.
Radisson Blu Edwardian, Free Trade Hall, Peter Street, Manchester M2 5GP.
Tel: 0161 835 9929 www.radissonblu-edwardian.com
