In this case, we are not exaggerating since this Afternoon Tea experience is actually called “Fancy Tea.” Lyaness is the new bar and concept from Ryan Chetiyawardana (Mr Lyan) and team at Sea Containers London. Set within the iconic Sea Containers building – originally designed by American architect Warren Platner – this iconic hotel is on London’s South Bank, and continues to push the envelope with their culinary offerings.
Taking a playful approach to the traditional afternoon tea and keeping classic Lyan fun at the forefront, Fancy Tea is a tongue-in-cheek take on a high-end 80s dinner party with a bold Lyan twist and cocktails created by the talented team. Lyaness boasts a daring offering that brings a cook’s approach to cocktails and flavor creation which has, in turn, been used in Fancy Tea to bring cocktails into the afternoon tea setting. Guests are served a menu of typical English party foods from sausage rolls and deviled eggs to trifle and eclairs, alongside expertly-crafted cocktails using Lyaness’ forward-thinking, house-made ingredients.
Fancy Tea is enjoyed in the elegant surroundings of Lyaness with views across the river Thames and City of London acting as the perfect backdrop. The layout of the space reimagined by Creative Director, Jacu Strauss and his team at Lore Studio, emphasizes two important features of Lyaness: the theater of the bar and its views across the Thames and the city of London. The new color palette sees a mixture of pale blues and soft greys used in the lounge furniture and seating areas, echoing the comfort and elegance of the 1920’s – with a hint of 1970’s retro.
Taking 80s dinner party inspiration and giving it a Lyan twist…
Made up sandwiches, savories, scones and sweets as well as four different cocktails; guests enjoy an indulgent menu full of bold flavors and 80s-inspired delights that make for an unforgettable experience. You can choose to go the distance and go with the inventive cocktails, or play it safer with the Champagne or traditional tea options. Regardless of what you choose, you will have plenty of opportunities to snap some amazing photos for Instagram.
Note: Fancy Tea is priced at £58 for the full tea selection, four paired cocktails, cakes and savories. The Boozeless Tea (£38) and a Champagne Tea (£48) are also available. Fancy Tea is available in Lyaness from Thursday to Sunday, between 12pm and 5pm. Last sitting at 4pm.
Glasshouse Spritz
Ultra Raspberry, cherry tomato, bubbles
Sandwiches
Roast beef on focaccia, rosemary mayo and rocket
Poached salmon on dark rye bread, tarragon mayo and watercress
Coronation sweet potato and squash, crispy shallots and baby gem on walnut bread
Carter Cobbler
Infinite Banana, Grey Goose, green tea bianco
Savories
Deviled eggs
Sausage rolls
Jasmine Gimlet
Purple pineapple, Bombay Sapphire, jasmine, citrus cordial
Scones
Pineapple upside down scone, clotted cream, cherry jam
Sweets
Sunflower Salt tea cake
Strawberry and mascarpone eclair
Fruit trifle
Cold Brew Palmetto
Havana 3yo Rum, cold brew tea, peach
