Natasha T.
Yelp
If I had to describe this place in one word, it would be sumptuous. As soon as you walk in, your eyes are welcomed by luxurious drapes of satin and velvet surrounding ornate embroidered armchairs at tables covered with lacy cloths.
The mere sight of this tea room was enough to make me melt, and I feel I have to explain further. At one end of the room, satin drapes partially obscure three little tables, making them a little more private. Furthermore, these tables are accompanied by a gorgeous red velvet sofa complete with extra cushions. It is very lovely indeed. And as if that wasn't enough to win me over instantly, there is the most delightful feature in the opposite corner. Behold: a mini conservatory. Well, sort of, conservatory is the closest word I can think of with which to describe it. Again, this area is slightly more private, with two little tables being separated from the main room by glass-panelled partitions. This little area is decked out with potted plants and suspended candle-lamps, with another cushion-laden sofa. Aahhh I just love it.
The menu comprises a very pleasing selection of teas, which are served up in gorgeous white ceramic teapots. A pot for one will set you back around £3 or so, but pots for two are also available for around £5. They do not shun the coffee lovers here either, and the standardised selection of coffee is on offer too. To tempt your appetite the menu also includes a range of sandwiches and light meals to accompany your pot of tea. And of course, like any self-respecting tea room, they sell lots of delightfully delicious cakes.
I'm also heartily impressed by their opening hours. They're open 11am - 11pm, seven days a week. This means not only can you indulge yourself at this little haven during the day, but also make the most of it in the evenings, perhaps dropping by after dining out, a hard day's work, or as a rendez-vous before night-time adventures.
You might asking yourselves why then, I have not given Richmond Tea Rooms the full five stars. And there are two reasons for this. Firstly, the quality of the cakes doesn't appear to be consistent, one day they can be deliciously moist and indulgent, and the next they can be a little dry and not really anything special. Secondly the service isn't quite up to par. I was seated with a menu on my arrival, but despite the place not being particularly busy at this time of day, it was a long time before anyone actually came to take my order, an experience which has been mirrored in visits by my friends. If these two points can be resolved, it'll get the five stars for sure. I do hope so!