New Afternoon Tea Menu At Abode Chester

SOME hotels are a destination in their own right, and some afternoon teas are worth planning a whole day out around. At Abode Chester, they've put together an afternoon tea menu for their champagne bar that's exciting enough to inspire a summer day trip to the walled city.

The setting is one thing – perched on top of this new designer hotel, the Michael Caines Champagne and Cocktail bar is out to make an impression. Bold furnishings sit underneath dramatic photography of music icons by Brian Aris, whose work has featured in Vogue, LIFE and the National Portrait Gallery.

Try to out-stare the huge portrait of a moody-looking Blondie, or if you prefer, just gaze out of the floor-to-ceiling windows at the racecourse below. There's an outdoor terrace (free viewing for the races if you go at the right time) and space enough for group gatherings.

All the ingredients on the menu are from local food producers making it a truly regional high tea. Confidential has done many champagne afternoon teas in our time – and this one looks like it wants to top them all.

It includes tea and coffee, finger sandwiches (traditional fillings such as roast beef and horseradish, and smoked salmon with cream cheese and chive), a selection of cakes including chocolate fudge cake, lemon madeira and carrot cake, and scones with strawberry jam and big dollops of clotted cream.

Extra special elements include a fruit tart and a macaroon (a delicious cake delicacy that needs to be experienced if you've never had one). Plus a glass of Michael Caines' excellent Champagne Blanc de Blanc n/v. The afternoon tea costs £23, or £15 without the champagne.

So why not drop in during your next shopping trip to Chester? For a summer treat or sophisticated celebration, it's hard to beat.

Book an afternoon tea at Abode Chester on 01244 347 000.