The Academy Proudly Unveils Mr Ma’s Afternoon Tea, Bloomsbury
Celebrate and Indulge in Chinese-inspired pastries and exotic teas at Bloomsbury’s Newest Hotel.
YTL Hotels’ elegant Gower Street property, The Academy, is thrilled to announce the launch of Mr Ma’s Afternoon Tea, paying homage to the hotel’s literary and cultural connections to Bloomsbury. One of the most important Chinese authors of the last century, Lao She’s novel, Mr Ma and Son, has inspired The Academy’s quintessentially English High Tea with an Asian twist.
The historic novel draws on the writer’s own experiences, following his arrival to 1920s London. Mr Ma and his son journey through the chaotic streets and daily struggles of life in London as they take over an antique shop they have inherited. As they navigate life through the streets of Bloomsbury, their love for tea keeps the connection to their Chinese heritage and allows them to find solace, peace and comfort.
Available to guests and locals alike daily from noon – 6pm, Mr Ma’s Afternoon Tea offers a unique glimpse into the poignant melding of two cultures that have shaped the colourful Bloomsbury neighbourhood of today. Jing Tea have developed an exclusive blend for The Academy, Mr Ma’s Special Blend, which is presented in an Asian inspired tea service. The sophisticated hotel, designed by New York-based award-winning Champalimaud Design, is steeped in laidback luxury and offers the perfect backdrop for a peaceful High Tea away from the hustle and bustle of Central London life. Throughout the summer months, guests can also experience Mr Ma’s offerings in the beautiful courtyard, a true hidden gem at The Academy Hotel.
The Academy have worked in conjunction with Jing Tea to design a stunning new and delicious Tea Menu, featuring a selection of Asian teas such as Jade Sword, Oolong and Mr Ma’s Special Blend, as well as a collection of English staples. Asian influenced traditional Afternoon Tea dishes include ginger and cinnamon scones with Devonshire clotted cream, Chinese egg tarts and Sesame Jian Dui Dough Balls.
The Academy also invites guests to indulge in Mr Ma’s Tea in the afternoon or evening with a tempting tipple! Guests can enjoy their Afternoon Tea with a glass of Bloomsbury Sparkling Wine or treat themselves to a G & T(ea) service, which includes any Gin Cocktail from The Academy’s menu.
The Academy Hotel is part of YTL Hotels’ growing UK portfolio, a collection of hotels that specialise in beautiful design and understated luxury that includes The Gainsborough Bath Spa, The Glasshouse, Edinburgh, and newly open Monkey Island Estate, Bray-on-Thames. The interiors of The Academy take on the same design cues as The Gainsborough Bath Spa, with elegant and traditional features and soft furnishings blending with contemporary touches.
Mr Ma’s Afternoon Tea at The Academy from £25, available 7 days a week, between noon to 6pm. Bloomsbury Sparkling Wine or Gin Afternoon Tea available for £10 supplement per person.
Rooms at The Academy Hotel start from £300. www.theacademyhotel.co.uk
