Kona, a sophisticated but uncomplicated add-on to Taj 51 at Buckingham Gate Suites, is the perfect place for a spot of afternoon tea or breakfast. The stylishly decorated restaurant features soft beiges with accents of gold, greys, rose gold and exotic greens brought in through the table centre pieces. Laid out in a fine dining style, it gives off a luxurious feel but promises a relaxed and homely ambience, perfectly pairing with tea and breakfast visits. The dining room is found in one of the suite’s Victorian townhouse and its history is also highlighted by the furnishings.
The Kona serves up creative afternoon teas from just after midday and unpretentious early-morning breakfasts from 7.30am in a welcoming and warm way, making guests feel at home in the lavish environment. It also offers hotel residents a welcoming spot to enjoy happy hour from 6pm. Diners can either sit in the historic dining room or move into the separate library room which has a fireplace, armchairs and plump sofas, where they can take advantage of the early evening tipples.
The menu uses traditional cooking techniques, but executes them in a contemporary European fashion, creating innovative dishes that serve up its own interpretations of colours, flavours and textures. Kona’s afternoon teas are served every day and offer three themed teas that aim to delight.
Choose between A Midsummer Night's Dream or The Jasmine Indian Afternoon Tea. Step into an enchanted forest and discover fairy-tale delights like Puck’s Elderflower Meringue and Titania’s Petal Tart. Sip on a Moonlit Orchard Potion and savour an Oberon’s Garden finger sandwich, with fresh cucumber and herbed cream cheese on beetroot bread.
Otherwise, take a trip to India with shots of caramel lassi at Jasmine’s tea and munch on chicken tikka wraps and curried egg mayo sarnies. Be sure to try the gulabi scones with mango compote. From the candy-striped carousel, enjoy Scottish smoked salmon and quail eggs on rye or the spoonful of love with strawberry and rose flavoured fromage gateaux served on a chocolate spoon.