8 Top London Afternoon Teas for Savory Lovers

While most afternoon teas are a celebration of sugar, a growing number of London’s top chefs are flipping the script for those who prefer salt over sweets. If you’d rather have an extra gourmet sausage roll than a macaron, or a mini venison slider over a slice of sponge, these menus are designed specifically for you. Here are eight highly-rated savory afternoon teas in London that replace the sugar rush with high-end, umami-rich flavors.

The Goring, Belgravia

Holding a Royal Warrant, The Goring offers one of the most prestigious savory teas in the capital (~£75 per person). Their "Savoury Tea" swap replaces the cake tier with exquisite items like lobster En Croûte, Montgomery cheddar Welsh Rarebit, and delicate venison puffs, all served in their iconic, sun-drenched garden room. View details and ratings: The Goring

The Beaumont, Mayfair

Drawing inspiration from the classic American grill, The Beaumont’s savory offering is a sophisticated, masculine take on the tradition (~£70 per person). Expect sophisticated bites like Devilled eggs with caviar, Reuben sliders, and smoked salmon bagels, making it a perfect choice for a hearty, transatlantic-style afternoon. View details and ratings: The Beaumont

L'oscar London, Holborn

This incredibly stylish hotel, set in a former Baptist church, offers a dedicated "Savory Afternoon Tea" that is a masterclass in French-inspired flavor (~£55 per person). Highlights include truffled croque monsieurs and savory éclairs filled with goat's cheese, providing a rich and indulgent alternative to the classic sweet stand. View details and ratings: L'oscar London

St. Ermin’s Hotel, Westminster

Known for its rooftop bees and focus on local produce, St. Ermin’s provides a fantastic savory-led menu (~£45 per person). Their stand features hearty, farmhouse-style savories like pork and apple sausage rolls and stilton and walnut tarts, all served in a relaxed, historic setting. View details and ratings: St. Ermin’s Hotel

The Wolseley, Piccadilly

For a grand, European grand-café experience, The Wolseley’s savory options are legendary (~£45 per person). While they offer a full tea, their savory-heavy high tea focus—featuring grilled kippers and Welsh Rarebit—is a favorite for those who want a more substantial, traditional meal in a spectacular setting. View details and ratings: The Wolseley

InterContinental London Park Lane, Mayfair

Located at one of London’s most prestigious addresses, this tea focuses on the best of British savory craftsmanship (~£65 per person). Their menu often features elevated classics like beef Wellington bites and smoked trout mousse, providing a sophisticated, meat-and-fish-led experience. View details and ratings: InterContinental Park Lane

The Mandeville Hotel, Marylebone

The Mandeville’s "Reform Social & Grill" afternoon tea is a nostalgic nod to British gentleman’s clubs (~£40 per person). It is a highly accessible, savory-forward menu featuring items like mini steak and ale pies and scotch eggs, making it a great choice for those who want a filling, no-nonsense afternoon. View details and ratings: The Mandeville Hotel

Town House at The Kensington, South Kensington

While famous for their themed teas, Town House offers an exceptional savory alternative (~£58 per person). Their savory selection is often the star of the show, featuring inventive tartlets and rich, cheese-based pastries that pair perfectly with a crisp glass of English sparkling wine. View details and ratings: The Kensington Hotel

London’s savory tea scene is proof that you don't need chocolate to have an indulgent afternoon. Whether you're a cheese lover or a fan of gourmet pies, these spots offer a brilliantly salted twist on the tradition. Be sure to leave a review on our site once you’ve found your favorite savory stand.