Sketch is an adult’s playground cleverly disguised as a Mayfair townhouse.
An old favourite of mine for cocktails, dinners and parties, but there’s always more to discover.
As I discovered yesterday, at tea.
I’ve popped in for coffee once or twice, but never experienced the full-blown Sketch Afternoon Tea extravaganza.
There was nothing for it, I’d have to hop to it!
The house itself is weird, wonderful, and ever so slightly creepy.
^ It wasn’t me.
The rooms are all decorated as though they were their own little worlds.
Sanctuaries away from the hustle and bustle of central London.
Immaculately designed, furnished and often finished by the artist’s fair hands.
But my favourite room of all?
The pink one.
Designed by British artist David Shrigley, it is the most gloriously sumptuous gallery space in London.
We waited in The Parlour for our table to be prepped.
Relaxing in old British splendour, as red busses and black taxis raced past outside.
Before being led through to The Gallery.
The space is surrounded by Shrigley’s witty sketches, and the crockery is his doing too.
Choose the Afternoon Tea, and choose your tea.
Three triumphant layers of decadence, all of which can be refilled when you run out.
A round of sandwiches; smoked salmon, cucumber, egg, cheese, all with a modern twist.
The cheese sandwich, for example, is pesto and melting mozzarella served warm and tied in a bow. (If you think that sounds good, try this!)
Topped with opera cakes, tarts and eclairs.
Drizzled with champagne, poured overhead.
A truly beautiful spread, and a very happy girl!
Regardless of whether you go for tea or midnight drinks, you are going to love the loos!
I can promise you, you’ve never played a better game of hide and seek in any bathroom.
Nanu nanu.
