In the midst of a challenging lockdown, Jo Stevenson, who serves as The Lanesborough’s Executive Head of Sales and Marketing, found herself grappling with a newfound solitude after the loss of her husband. This difficult time, marked by indulgence in chocolate and a keen obsession with the Netflix series Bridgerton, sparked a unique concept. The lavish interiors portrayed in the show invoked a yearning for the elegance of The Lanesborough itself, urging her to merge these worlds in an innovative way.
However, transforming this idea into reality was not immediate. It required a significant period of approximately four months for discussions, creative development, and necessary licensing. This culminated in March 2022, when The Lanesborough launched London’s inaugural exclusive Bridgerton-themed Afternoon Tea, produced in collaboration with Netflix and Shondaland, the production company founded by Shonda Rhimes.
Now, four years later, the partnership remains vibrant, with each fresh iteration of Afternoon Tea undergoing a meticulous creative process. Prior to new seasons, the hotel receives insight into the upcoming series’ creative direction. Mood boards, including Pantone colors and character outlines, offer initial guidance. This collaboration leads the team to conceptualize what flavors and experiences Bridgerton might evoke.
Culinary creations such as pastries, finger sandwiches, and cocktails are crafted, named, and then presented for review by Netflix and Shondaland. Every element—recipes, names, menu descriptions, colors, display, and photographs—requires thorough approval, followed by a tasting session and final confirmation.
There are distinct advantages to this alliance. The team gains privileged previews of future series, while cast members have made occasional visits. Script read-throughs have even occurred right at the hotel, and Netflix conducts surprise inspections to ensure that the dining experience aligns with the approved vision.
Despite these connections, The Lanesborough has not served as a filming location for Bridgerton. Actual shooting occurs at Shepperton Studios and various other sites.
The Afternoon Tea for Season 4 centers on Benedict Bridgerton, complete with beverage pairings. The signature cocktail Forbidden Love features a blend of gin, basil, peach, and jasmine, topped with a citrus mist and rose water, while the alcohol-free alternative, Behind the Mask, combines passion fruit, lychee, and vanilla.
What began with Jo’s chocolate cravings and television fixation during lockdown has evolved into an enticing offering. While her love for Bridgerton still thrives, her sweet tooth supposedly found moderation.
Exclusive Offers
Luxury Restaurant Club members can enjoy a complimentary Forbidden Love cocktail or Behind the Mask mocktail while savoring The Lanesborough’s Bridgerton Afternoon Tea during August and September, available Monday through Friday. See details.
The price for the Bridgerton Afternoon Tea is £92 per person.
Membership Opportunity
For those not yet part of the Luxury Restaurant Club, a complimentary 14-day preview offers the chance to explore member benefits at esteemed dining venues, hotels, and private clubs across the UK.
