Heading into the magnificent lobby at The Peninsula Paris, expectations were high. The typically ornate Parisian interior was drenched in a tasteful white and gold with Christmas trees that even made me feel small adorning each corridor. Our previous visit to the sister hotel in Hong Kong had been the perfect end to our last trip overseas and so we knew the standard was going to be the very best. Before our tour of the premises, however, it was time to refuel. With the big hand almost at four, afternoon tea beckoned.
After a refreshing, crisp glass of Brut, it was time for the first course; sandwiches. Foie gras served on focaccia was a decadent way to start proceedings. I have a certain fondness for this controversial delicacy and this did not disappoint. Alongside this, a homage to the mighty croque-monsieur and the ever-so-British cucumber sandwich completed the first course.
With the champagne finished, we moved onto the Christmas tea. Served with this, a selection of cakes with enough sugar to challenge even the sweetest tooth. There were so many delicious options on this tier, but the stand out piece had to be the Ferrerer Rocher-style chocolate bauble that revealed a red velvet cake interior. Even the ‘scones’ surprised us with a spongy texture filled with fruits. This is the season of gifts after all.
After a good few hours of indulging ourselves and watching the Christmas choral from a local school, it was time for a tour of the hotel. The Peninsula Paris has rooms to suit every occasion and budget, from the casual voyager to the Russian oligarch. We were very impressed with the quality of the rooms, but it was arguably the rooftop restaurant and ground floor cigar and whiskey lounge that stole the show. Whether you’re after views over the Eiffel Tower as you feast on gourmet food, or access to some of the finest whiskeys and cigars in the world, this hotel has you covered. Maybe it’s time to move to Paris?