Taking inspiration from the classic Gentlemen's clubs of the nineteenth century, Park Plaza Cardiff has introduced a rather delicious and altogether debonair new take on the traditional afternoon tea.
The new Gentlemen’s Afternoon Tea, offers a masculine twist on the traditionally feminine afternoon past time, swapping finger sandwiches for mini venison burgers, and dainty scones and macaroons for chorizo Scotch eggs and Sirloin stuffed Yorkshire puddings.
More culinary stars of the new menu include seared Welsh sirloin steak with caramelised red onions and garlic mushrooms on toasted ciabatta and miniature prawn cocktail shots, and for those with a sweet tooth, how does warm chocolate fondant with clotted cream and Rum Baba filled with Chantilly cream and raspberries sound?
All of this can be washed down with the traditional choice of tea or coffee, but the discerning gent may also wish to indulge in a Penderyn Whisky cocktail, or perhaps a classic Martini (a la 007!).
The Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea will also be supporting Velindre Cancer Centre, with a percentage of each Tea being donated to Wales’ leading cancer centre.
Andrew Morris Head of Fundraising at Velindre said “We are delighted to be involved with the Park Plaza’s new venture – Velindre Fundraising has a reputation for innovative fundraising activities, and this new twist on a traditional event is something we will actively be supporting.
“The Teas will help us to continue to raise funds to provide exceptional care and support to patients and families dealing with cancer in Wales”
Fronting the campaign is Blues Captain and British Lion Matthew Rees, who last year was diagnosed with testicular cancer.
"I hope the Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea is a great success and raises lots of money for Velindre” said Matthew.
“Since my diagnosis, I have been truly overwhelmed by the fantastic support I have received from the rugby world, friends and family, throughout my treatment.
“It has meant a huge amount to me. I also want to pay a special thank you to everyone at Velindre Hospital in Cardiff, in particular the specialists and nurses on the Princess Margaret Ward for everything they have done for me.”
Margaret Waters, General Manager at Park Plaza Cardiff, said; “We are delighted to be supporting an exceptionally worthy charity such as Velindre Cancer Care.
“We hope that our exclusive Gentlemen’s Afternoon Tea will raise a substantial amount of money for the centre.
“We are honoured to have the support of Matthew Rees and Bradley Davies who have lent their backing to our campaign”.
The Gentlemen’s Afternoon Tea isn’t just for guys, either - it will also appeal to women who find cupcakes and puff pastries just a tad too girly for grown-ups.
This new take on the traditional afternoon tea also offers the perfect opportunity for daughters, wives and girlfriends to treat the special man in their lives. And with Father’s Day just around the corner, it could be the perfect moment to spoil your dad!
Laguna Kitchen & Bar at Park Plaza Cardiff is the first restaurant in Wales to offer an innovative twist on the traditional afternoon tea that is geared towards the men’s market. The hotel serves upwards of 15,000 afternoon teas every year, a huge number considering the fact that the hotel first introduced afternoon teas to their menu just two years ago.
Park Plaza Cardiff Gentlemen’s Afternoon Tea, from £18.95 per person. To book call 02920 111 111 or visit www.lagunakitchenandbar.com