Why go? First off, Sketch is in the perfect location, just off Oxford Street, and a welcome break once you're ready to drop after all that shopping - though be warned, it's so popular, you'll have to book in advance, especially at the weekend. You'll likely have seen the Wes Anderson-esque interiors of Sketch's pink gallery all over your Instagram, or at the very least a loo selfie in the space-like pods in the bathroom - but it certainly isn't a matter of style over substance as the food is incredible too.
The vibe: Afternoon tea tends to takes place in the aforementioned gallery, which is even better in real life. Stylish regulars and tourists alike sit in the powdery pink velvet chairs while sipping on tea from quirky cups. The walls are lined with artwork (installations change seasonally), and lust-worthy home accessories are everywhere you look. The fact that waiting staff are dressed in retro-inspired outfits only adds to the overall magic.
What to order: Like we said, this is so much more than meets the eye at Sketch. This is quite possibly the best afternoon tea we've ever had, and even your stomach will be wonderfully full by the end of the meal, you'll be begging for more.
There are two options at Sketch: the classic afternoon tea (£59 pp) and the Champagne afternoon tea (£73pp). You get tea on demand, and you'll be spoiled for choice with all the delicate blends - definitely try as many as you can.
In terms of the food, expect your traditional treats with a fancy twist. Start off with savoury bites that include but are not limited to egg truffle gougères, salmon and cream sandwiches and croque d'york, a nice take on your cheese and ham toastie. If you've got more of a sweet tooth, then the next bit is where it gets really interesting. As well as your usual scones with clotted cream and jam (cream first, naturally), the patisseries are worthy of any Parisian bakery. We love the strawberry cheesecake, marshmallow, caramel & chocolate eclair and Battenberg.
If you still have a little bit of room, you'll then be able to choose an extra cake from the trolley. Told you you'd be begging for more.