LOCATED on the 32nd floor of The Shard, Oblix’s heavenly location is just one of the renowned restaurant’s attractions. The food is, of course, the ultimate focal point.
Split across two sides of the floor, Oblix offers different menus based on whether one chooses to dine on the West or East side of London’s most iconic landmark.
On the West side, classic dishes from the restaurant’s rotisserie and grill are offered via an a la carte menu – cocktails, desserts and brunch are also up for grabs. Meanwhile, the East side is particularly known for hosting afternoon teas. New for this winter, Oblix has launched a festive afternoon tea in order to celebrate this Christmas in style. Today, we’re here to give you a rundown on the new seasonal afternoon tea offering.
Afternoon Tea
Upon entering the East side venue, we caught our first glimpse of the infamous London skyline and marvelled at the location’s panoramic views for a few moments. Shortly after arrival, and accompanied by a soundtrack of lofi music, we were shown to our table where we explored the new menu.
To start, we were offered a glass of Champagne followed by a selection of teas. Opting for jasmine pearls tea – a scented green tea crafted by Liu Guoqing in Fujian, China – I was immediately impressed with the full-bodied floral drink. Similarly, we also tried the blackcurrant and hibiscus tea which was equally calming and delightful.
After the teas, we went on to try some of the new sandwiches on the menu. Served in perfect bite-size portions, the sandwiches are the quintessential savoury starter for the altitudinous dining experience.
All the sandwiches were carefully constructed in terms of flavour and form. However, I was particularly impressed by the severn & wye smoked salmon, seaweed and cucumber sandwich. The prawn and lobster roll with cocktail sauce, alongside the free-range truffle egg mayonnaise brioche bun, also acted as the perfect counterparts to our beverages.
Afternoon Tea Highlights
As with any afternoon tea, the scones and pastries were up next. To truly usher in the festive season, cranberry scones appeared next to classic baked scones which paired perfectly with the selection of supplementary toppings on offer – fresh honeycomb, whipped clotted cream and raspberry preserve.
Furthermore, guests will not be disappointed in the menu’s sweet treats and pastries. Oblix’s signature hazelnut rocher is presented alongside a decadent array of festive delights.
Amongst the festive delights lies a gingerbread spiced canelé with Christmas tree-shaped icing and a Santa hat-inspired caramel, coffee & crème fraiche tartlet. Additionally, the passionfruit, mango and pistachio bar is certain to enthral one’s palate.
Thanks to its excellent customer service, attention to detail and warm atmosphere, Oblix’s festive afternoon tea is an unmissable experience for those hoping to truly commemorate this Christmas and new Year.
Diners can choose between three different afternoon menus which differ in price depending on what drinks are included. The classic afternoon tea costs £58 per person and includes a selection of teas and coffees.
The rosé afternoon tea costs £78 and includes bottomless rosé wine, selected cocktails, teas and coffees. Finally, the champagne afternoon tea costs £105 and offers bottomless champagne, wine, selected cocktails, teas and coffees.
by Sophie Richardson
The festive afternoon tea menu is available to try until the 7th of January 2024 and runs every day from 12 pm to 4 pm. Reservations can be made here.