The illustrious Art Afternoon Tea at the Merrion Hotel in Dublin, Ireland
- Kanela Fina
- Jul 20, 2022
- 3 min read
During our visit to Ireland in February, we had the opportunity to stay at the iconic Merrion Hotel in Dublin, just a few meters from the Government Buildings, The National Gallery, and The National Museum of Ireland.
Stepping down from our car, I couldn't help but be amused at the Georgian look of the façade. Despite the cold (and snowy) Irish weather, the valet was standing outside, greeting us with a big welcome smile.
The Merrion is a very special hotel not only because of its history but also because of the important private collection of art hanging from the walls or showcased in different parts of the four buildings comprising the hotel. As stated on their website "The Merrion is home to an important private collection of 19th- and 20th-century art, to which the hotel’s grand interiors offer the perfect backdrop. The result is a dramatic and successful marriage of classical architecture and noteworthy Irish and European art.".
We stayed in the Merrion for five days. Each time I wandered around the different floors and rooms, I found new pieces I hadn't noticed the day before. Besides its history, comfy bed, luxurious ambiance, and detailed amenities, one of the highlights was the famous Art Afternoon Tea. I've had Afternoon tea numerous times before, but never one themed on art. And Irish19th- and 20th-century art nonetheless!
We made a reservation for 16h and had a very light lunch as I knew the afternoon tea would be enough to skip dinner. After reading and researching about it, I was incredibly impatient to start. And so, the show began...
We were greeted in one of the lovely Drawing Rooms facing the open garden, and sat at a cosy table a few meters away from the chimney, and close to the piano man. The stakes were high, I couldn't help but relish the moment: To be sitting with friends on a cold afternoon, having a good conversation, while pouring outside... It was a moment I will cherish forever.
Shortly after, the fine china arrived along with the selection of works we would soon see recreated:
We had the pleasure of trying the sweet miniatures created by pastry chef, Paul Kelly, and inspired by:
William Scott's Frying Pan, Funnel, Eggs & Lemons 1950
John Boyd's Futile Defense (Fabricated Evidence) 1998
Orla Whelan's Chaos Bewitched
The Merrion's Art Afternoon Tea takes two hours and it's made of two courses. After ordering our teas, coffees, and champagne, we were soon served the first part of the afternoon tea. No afternoon tea would be complete without scones, sandwiches, and delightful cakes!
I loved how the cakes gave hints to other paintings part of the Merrion collection.
While eating cakes, drinking tea, and sipping yet on more champagne, one hour went by. At around 17h, the waiter started bringing the second part of the Art Afternoon Tea: The actual sweet recreations!
Not only these were absolutely adorable, they also were delicious. The pastry team made a fabulous work in bringing the colours and details of the paintings to life.
All in all, the Art Afternoon Tea at the Merrion was different from all the other Afternoon teas I've had before. It stands out because of its character. Further, the fact that we learnt about the history behind each painting while tasting the sweet recreations was quite unique. Especially, visiting Dublin for the first time, it was a treat to take two hours just to enjoy the company of friends, the candid atmosphere, and the attention of the staff.
While pricy (€69.95 per person with a glass of champagne, €55 without) it is unique, and something different to do if it's cold or raining outside (Odds are that it will rain!).
Note that spaces are limited and each confection is done upon request, therefore, reservations in advance are a must. The Art Afternoon Tea takes two hours and consists of two courses.
Reservations and more details are available on the Merrion website.
Sláinte and love,
M
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