Step behind the scenes at The Berkeley in Belgravia, London, for a masterclass in catwalk-quality baking inspired by the wedding of the year
Coconut cherry shots
The Berkeley – glam sister to Claridge’s and The Connaught – regularly runs masterclasses with head pastry chef Mourad Khiat to share the secrets behind the hotel’s famous Prêt-à-Portea, fashion’s favourite afternoon tea. Following the success of the recipe book marking the tea’s tenth anniversary, these inviting sessions offer baking aficionados the chance to perfect their own Prêt-à-Portea skills. Guests learn how to create a selection of Prêt-à-Portea classics, including treats inspired by designers such as Moschino, Jason Wu and Manolo Blahnik. And this month the classes take on a special royal wedding flavour with limited-edition bridal couture biscuits and regal handbags – see our exclusive preview here.
The Berkeley’s Collins Room, where Prêt-à-Portea is served daily
Prêt-à-Portea is served daily in the Collins Room (pictured above) from 1pm until 5.30pm and features a seasonal selection of catwalk-inspired bakes and biscuits. Prices from £52 per person; £62 including a glass of Laurent-Perrier champagne. Masterclasses cost £225 per person including a two-hour baking class followed by Prêt-à-Portea with a glass of champagne. Visit the-berkeley.co.uk for availability and to book online or call 020 7107 8866 (for Prêt-à-Portea reservations) or 020 7201 1619 (for masterclasses).
Two stylish spreads; Prêt-à-Portea bridal biscuits
BUY THE BOOK WITH 25% OFF
Prêt-à-Portea: High Fashion Bakes and Biscuits, with recipes by The Berkeley’s head pastry chef Mourad Khiat, is published by Laurence King, price £12.95. To order a copy for £9.71 until 27 May, visit mailshop.co.uk/books or call 0844 571 0640; p&p is free on orders over £15. Located in Belgravia, just a step away from Knightsbridge, The Berkeley is the ultimate urban retreat in the heart of London: the essence of contemporary chic, with stunning rooms and suites, two-Michelin-starred cuisine from Marcus Wareing, Prêt-à-Portea in the Collins Room, cocktails in the Blue Bar, and the health club and spa complete with rooftop pool. Visit theberkeley.co.uk for more information and reservations.
Feature coordination Fiona McCarthy
Recipes adapted from The Berkeley
Photographs John Carey
Advertisement