What to get a picky person for Christmas: Afternoon tea at Ladurée

Shopping for Christmas presents should be fun – but if you don’t know what the person wants and they haven’t written a wish list, it can be a tough and stressful task.

The holidays are about spending time with loved ones, so what better to give than an experience?

Of course, the coronavirus pandemic does put some limits on where, who with and how you can hang out but we recommend you embrace the spirit of the season by hoping for the best and booking yourself in for a fancy meal – even if it has to take place in a few weeks or months.

Our suggestion? Hit up Ladurée in Covent Garden.

We visited the charming French patisserie, best known for its fantastic macarons, a few weeks ago for a luxurious afternoon tea – and it did not disappoint.

The treats are classics done well, with everything you would expect; from finger sandwiches with ham and cheese, smoked salmon, eggs and caviar and cucumber and mint, to warm fluffy scones with clotted cream and jam.

And, of course, the pastries. There is plenty to choose from with the team eager to recommend the baker’s latest creation – a sumptuous chocolate mousse cake decorated with the brand’s gold logo (which was delicious but a bit heavy) and a lemon-flavoured cheesecake-inspired slice of heaven.

Let’s not forget the macarons. You get to choose the flavours, we went for pistachio, chocolate and coffee, all of which were very yummy.

Pair with a glass of champagne and a cuppa – or coffee, if you prefer – and you’re all set.

And thumbs up to the staff, the service is polite but not intrusive and social distancing rules are thoroughly observed.

Top tip: request a table up on the balcony; it is covered in an arrangement of beautiful flowers (albeit fake) and greenery, and also has cover and heaters to keep you warm in these colder months.

You get an excellent view of the Covent Garden Piazza, too.

No stress, no queues and LOTS of treats. See, we told you it’s the perfect Christmas gift.

The Ladurée afternoon tea costs £45 per person, £55 if you’d like a glass of champagne included.

It is recommended that you book in advance and check the venue’s website before you head over to stay updated on any sudden changes due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Website: https://www.laduree.co.uk

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaisonLaduree

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladureeuk