Saturday 16 March 2013

The Afternoon Tea Club Reviews: The Marriott Victoria and Albert Hotel, Manchester

PLEASE NOTE: THIS TEA HAS NOW BEEN UPDATED. READ OUR REVIEW OF THE NEW V&A OFFERING HERE

Last week the Afternoon Tea Club were invited to the Marriott Victoria and Albert Hotel in Manchester for a riverside tea!


Environment

Caroline:
Located by the River Irwell, on the edge of Manchester City Centre, the Marriott Victoria and Albert Hotel offers country lodge settings in a city environment. Decorated throughout in warm shades of brown and accented with relaxing blue hues, this brasserie-style bar is a place of modern comfort. Similarly the side gallery, where tea is served, also offers a pleasant atmosphere, with exposed brick walls and comfortable leather chairs which create a wonderfully  intimate feel - perfect for a coffee and a catch up!


Laura:
The Marriott brings the the rural homeliness of the country right to the heart of the city. Olive green furnishings and crisp white table settings serve this restaurant well and compliment the almost 'New York' inspired accents shown in the dim wall lighting and bare brick walls.
The best thing about this hotel is the calming view of the River Irwell, made even more picturesque by the surprise snow that fell during our visit! A simple and relaxing setting.

Food

Caroline:
Served on pretty floral cake stands, Afternoon Tea at the Victoria and Albert Hotel offers simple yet traditional fare. Their menu includes: a selection of finger sandwiches (Salmon, Cucumber, Ham and Egg), Fruit Scones with Clotted Cream and Bonne Maman Strawberry Conserve (my jam of choice) and a selection of mini cakes and pastries.

My favourite layer had to be the patisserie, which consisted of a variety of bite-size classics: a rich chocolate cake, mini-vanilla slice and a zesty orange macaroon. Being a fan of all things chocolate the cake was a clear winner, being wonderfully chocolaty and moist.

The tea, a staple classic Twinings Earl Grey, was served in a lovely white tea service and replenished regularly - much to my delight!


Laura:
This traditional afternoon tea comes served with brilliant views, a bottomless coffee pot and a little bit of history. On our table was a small card which explained the origins of our favourite pastime which was a really lovely touch.
Our three tier stand was quite adorable with multi-coloured floral layers that gave a complete contrast to the venue's rural layout.
To start we had a good range of sandwiches, my favourite being the ham and mustard which was surprisinly filling. To follow we indulged in some classic fruit scones which came partnered with yummy cream and a mini pot of jam each.
Finally the dessert selection included a mini chocolate cake, custard slice and also an orange cream macaroon. The macaroon was a clear winner for me as it was nice to try a less than traditional favour for this increasingly popular dessert.
All I would point out is that perhaps by trying to stick with a 'traditional afternoon tea' theme, this tea lacks the excitement and variation you might find at other venues at a similar cost. I do feel that this afternoon tea could be fantastic with just a few changes such as slightly larger desserts and perhaps homemade scones.

Service


Caroline:
The service at the V&A was attentive without being at all invasive. Out teacups were topped and our places promptly cleared. I particularly appreciated the presence of the doorman who greeted us upon arrival - He offered a very warm welcome, pointing out the direction of the lounge area with great enthusiasm. Very good service!


Laura:
Like Caroline, I really appreciated the gentleman greeting us at the door. We were made to feel very welcome throughout our stay with staff being appropriately attentive - very well mannered too!

Overall Thoughts


Caroline:
If you’re looking for a no-frills afternoon tea in a great environment, then the Marriott Victoria and Albert Hotel could be just the place for you. The hotel itself is lovely and the staff are very attentive - a great place for a relaxed afternoon.


Laura:
The Marriott Victoria and Albert is a very pleasant afternoon tea venue. It's offers simple afternoon tea in idyllic surroundings and the lovely staff make you feel right at home. A really enjoyable afternoon.

Cupcake Rating:
 


The Marriott Victoria and Albert Hotel is located along the River Irwell on Water Street, Manchester City Centre. Afternoon Tea Price start at £14.50pp. For more information please visit their website HERE  

As is common in the catering and leisure industry, we were provided with complimentary services for review purposes. Whilst this has not influenced our review, we believe in the full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest.   
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