Tried & tasted: Pantry at 108

If you’re looking for something off the beaten track, Pantry at 108, located at The Marylebone Hotel, offers a quintessential English setting, writes Molly Dyson.

The fresh interior design, with its light grey and white walls, wooden floors and plush red sofas, immediately puts me in the mood for the healthy, gluten-free afternoon tea we’re about to have. We’re lucky enough to be sat in a window seat, so are treated to a dose of sunshine while we sip a glass of sparkling rosé wine.

Our waiter approaches with a tray full of loose-leaf tea and explains each one in detail, including where they come from and the flavours they yield. I choose hibiscus, which comes out of the pot as a vibrant pink colour and is delectably sweet, while my dining companion goes with a lemon tea.

Next, we’re given a selection of finger sandwiches – cream cheese and cucumber, smoked salmon, ham and egg and cress, all on some of the best gluten-free bread I’ve ever tasted. We’re both pleasantly surprised by the superfood side salad, a small helping of bulgur wheat, pomegranate and broccoli on a single lettuce leaf.

Our cakes are the last to arrive and we take our time getting through the bountiful selection. The raisin scones with Devonshire clotted cream and strawberry preserve are as delightfully fluffy as I hoped they would be. We’ve also got a tasty champagne jelly with fresh fruit, plus zesty lemon and ginger and chocolate cakes.

As well as afternoon tea, Pantry at 108 offers a private dining option and can put together take-away lunches for offices and groups.

The Marylebone Hotel, 108 Marylebone Lane, London W1U 2QE; 020 7969 3900; 108marylebonelane.com