The Gatsby’s Room

The Beaumont Hotel exudes a timeless charm that suggests it has been a part of the city for decades. The Art Deco facade and elegant interior create a sophisticated atmosphere, featuring a chessboard entrance hall and panelled walls. I paid a visit with my best friend to Gatsby’s Room, an intimate space inspired by the 1926 origins of the building.

Here’s a fact I came across which may be of interest. Surprisingly, The Beaumont Hotel’s origins trace back to 1926 when it served as a luxurious parking space for what is now Selfridges. Transformed into a Grade II listed 5-star luxury hotel, it is a testament to architectural ambition. The refurbishment by Thierry Despont, following a change in ownership by Corbin & King, introduced Gatsby’s Room, an intimate space adjoining The Colony Grill, the hotel’s main restaurant.

The Gatsby’s Room

The Gatsby’s Room had a beautiful fireplace and eclectic artwork, emanating a cosy yet spacious ambience. Live music from a tucked-away pianist and plush seating added to the overall experience, creating a distinct townhouse feel. The doors are decorated with bookshelves, which makes it relatively homely.

The menu

The menu presented decisions, from tea choices to adding a touch of effervescence with bubbles. The tea offering featured an array of choices, including gluten-free and vegetarian options. The sandwich selection, a highlight, showcased classic flavours, with a tempting offer for seconds, an indulgence that proved hard to resist.

But we have chosen a sensible afternoon tea, which consisted of:

Sandwiches

• Devilled Egg: A flavour of adventure which featured a perfectly cooked Cacklebean farm egg infused with the warmth of biber chilli and the exciting twist of kimchi. Each bite promises a harmonious blend of spice and savoury goodness
• Caesar Salad: The smoky allure of smoked chicken is perfectly complemented by the aged Parmesan and the creamy embrace of a signature Caesar dressing. It’s a sophisticated take on a classic favourite
• Cured Lox: The freshness of the Cured Lox sandwich, where citrus-cured salmon meets the crispness of fennel, the creaminess of yoghurt, and a hint of mint. This combination creates a refreshing and sophisticated symphony of flavours
• Philly Cheesesteak: Hereford beef, caramelised onions, and the velvety richness of Ogleshield cheese come together to create a mouth-watering masterpiece. It’s a carnivorous delight that satisfies every savoury craving

Scones and pastries

• Plain and Raisin Scones: Warm scones are always comforting, at The Gatsby’s Room, plain and raisin scones are nothing new. Fresh from the oven, these warm delights are accompanied by the silky richness of Cornish clotted cream and the sweet embrace of homemade strawberry jam. A classic pairing that whispers indulgence in every bite

Desserts:

• Peach Baba: The allure of the Peach Baba, a pastry masterpiece that marries the sweetness of ripe peaches with the subtle sophistication of amaretto. The result is a heavenly creation that balances fruity delight and nutty undertones
• Haupia: A tropical journey with the Haupia pastry. The creamy embrace of strawberry and coconut mousse takes your taste buds on vacation, offering a luxurious and exotic escape with every delightful bite
• S’more: One for those with a sweet tooth. The S’more, a hazelnut and chocolate tartlet adorned with toasted meringue. It’s a decadent treat that captures the essence of a classic campfire favourite, creating a symphony of textures and flavours
• Éclair: We ended the afternoon tea with the Éclair, a refined creation featuring the rich notes of black forest cherry, the timeless elegance of vanilla, and a subtle kick of black pepper. Each bite is a journey through layers of sophistication and flavour complexity

Although the afternoon tea was delicious, the ‘star dish’ was the lovely birthday cake that was prepared for my best friend. If you are near The Beaumont Hotel, consider trying the afternoon tea at The Gatsby’s Room.