London by Lily Vanilli: Extravagant Afternoon Tea Launches at Four Seasons Tower Bridge

Famous East End artisan baker, Lily Vanilli, is launching an extravagant afternoon tea, along with a new Aperi-tea concept that'll be hosted at the Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge.

Entitled, 'London By Lily Vanilli' the decadent afternoon tea will be served in the grand Rotunda Bar and Lounge, and as day turns to evening, the menu will entice guests with an Aperitivo-style service and a fun night-time energy.

Of course, Lily is renowned for her spectacular cake designs and colourful creations that nod to nostalgia, and she's worked with the brand-new team at the Rotunda Bar and Lounge to create an afternoon tea that goes beyond just tea and scones, it speaks to the stylish Londoner.

Think divine cakes, decadent bakes and savoury bites, all paired with mini cocktails; this includes the Lily Royale, a mix of Beluga Noble vodka, cacao blanc, raspberry cordial, and Champagne, and the Salted Espresso, a take on the classic espresso martini with Patrón tequila, Los Siete Misterios mezcal, fresh espresso, Pedro Ximénez, and salted caramel syrup, as well as classic cocktails and mini martinis.

Lily Jones, owner and founder of the Lily Vanilli café, says, “I am so excited to bring my take on the perfect afternoon tea experience to the Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge.

"The Rotunda Bar and Lounge is a truly special backdrop to our menu of sweet and savoury delights. Guests can expect a contemporary spin on both the Lily Vanilli and English classics, all served with a slice of grandeur only the Four Seasons could provide."

She continues, "The aspect I’m most looking forward to seeing come to life is how the vibe evolves over the course of the day, with the evenings bringing great music, dimming lights and a fabulous menu of sweet and savoury bites that perfectly pair with champagne and cocktails. We will also offer a mini version of the menu for anyone who wants a smaller selection - this is an afternoon tea for Londoners - somewhere you can come for drinks after work - or even after dinner!”

The seasonal opening menu pays tribute to spring's pastel hues and sense of renewal with highlights such as Lily's signature Celebration Cakes with her decadent icing, a creamy Crème Brûlée Basque Cheesecake complete with a sour cherry compote, and a Tiramisu Tart featuring coffee and brandy-soaked sponge, custard mascarpone cream, and coffee caramel in a crisp chocolate tart.

Additionally, her renowned, delicate, cake-like scones are served with clotted cream and seasonal fruit compote.To complement the Aperi-Tea hour, there will be a whole host of bite-sized savoury delicacies, cue the house Gilda--anchovy, green olive, and pickled chili skewers, a traditional bar snack from the Basque region; light Parmesan gougères, cheese scones paired with pickled cucumber and dill, and crispy confit potatoes topped with smoked salmon, crème fraîche, and lime.

A feast for the eyes and tastebuds, Victoria Lebedeva, Director of Food and Beverage at the Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge, says, “The London by Lily Vanilli promises a feast for the senses with delicious bites, perfectly paired cocktails and a stylish vibe.

Whether it’s a mid-afternoon graze, late night tipple or special occasion blow out, this is the only afternoon tea date you need in your diary. The Rotunda bar will ooze Lily’s signature style all year round as the menu evolves with the seasons, bringing Londoners trending tastes and flavours from spring to winter.”

London by Lily Vanilli is priced at £48 per person and will be available from Friday to Sunday, with reservations open from 2pm until 7pm.

fourseasons.com/towerbridge.