I booked fait maison salon de thè for the afternoon (2.30pm for me and my two daughters).
This is my honest feedback and unfortunately the majority of feedback is negative.
I made the booking via open table and this was confirmed to me through an email. There is no specific booking for afternoon tea. I'm guessing that the booking is just for the table?
On the day (Sunday 15th) we were running a bit late due to lots of road closures throughout central london. I called en route and spoke to a young lady, explaining the situation. She asked me for my name. However , she could not find a booking for me. I explained that I had definitely made a reservation, and that we were booked at 144 Gloucester road. She assured me that it didn't matter today, as it wasn't a particularly busy day and that we should be able to get a table immediately.
When we arrived, a waiter seated us at a table straight away (that was good), he left 3 menus on the table and then left us to have a look at the menu. At this point the restaurant was quite empty.
We waited some time (at least 10 to 15 minutes), before I got a waiters attention and explained that we had booked for afternoon tea and we were not ordering from the menu. He said nicely "that's fine I'll do that now".
They came back with three cake stands, one for each of us. My daughters ordered English tea and I ordered a cafe latte for our drinks. Two pots of tea arrived and one very small jug of milk.
Unfortunately, the sandwiches were the most basic I have ever had in any afternoon tea (and I have had a few), far from the elegant sandwiches that are described on the FM website. Four small finger sandwiches, two were brown bread plain cucumber, the other one was egg mayonnaise and the last one we really couldn't work out if it was plain cream cheese or butter.
The cakes did not taste fresh and the maccarons tasted terrible. The only nice cake on the stand was the chocolate brownie and the Custard tart. The six small scones were not fresh and they gave a small bowl of jam that had leaked half its contents onto the scone plate. The cream was enough for two servings of scones.
After I finished my latte, I called a waiter and asked him for another coffee, he said you will have to ask the other waiter. When the other waiter came along, I asked him, and he replied, "no sorry refills not included but we can get you more sandwiches". I told him that he nor anyone else had explained this when we sat down and we definitely didn't want any more sandwiches now, as we are halfway through our desserts and the sandwiches were basic. He said sorry and walked off.
I have never ever been to any afternoon tea where they do not refill your drinks? How much does a pot of hot water and a few tea leaves cost?
In addition to this, not one single waiter attended to us, at any point during our seating to ask us if we needed anything or if everything was ok.
Extremely disappointing, especially as I was really looking forward to going with my girls, especially as my daughters first baby is due in two weeks.
I'll also point out that when I booked, I specifically made a note in the section where it asks special occasion, however, as they didn't have a record of my booking, my other daughters birthday was overlooked. As the restaurant got busy, the waiters were doing birthday celebrations for other diners.
Sorry to say but I was completed disappointed with the whole FM experience. I paid £119 which also included service charge for a service that was terrible.
I have had hi tea at a few places and on all of these, the tea/coffee has been bottomless and sandwiches/cakes/ pastries are refilled without any question.
We made the best of a bad situation but to be perfectly honest, I felt totally disappointed with the whole experience. I thought that this particular branch was for afternoon tea as the name suggests, however it appeared that most of the diners were ordering food from the menu and we were forgotten.
Won't be...
Read moreA Breakfast to Remember at Fait Maison Salon de Thé
From the moment we stepped through the charming entrance on Gloucester Road, we were met with an atmosphere that felt straight out of a storybook. The decor—envision Bridgerton meets Parisian salon—instantly set the tone for a beautiful morning.
First Impressions & Ambience Light-filled, floral interiors, cozy seating nooks, and vibrant seasonal displays made every glance and corner feel like a photo-ready moment . It’s exactly the kind of place where even a simple puff pastry or rose‑latte becomes an event.
Spanish Omelette (Classic Tortilla) Their take on the Spanish omelette—rich with potato, egg, spinach, onion, and a hint of feta—was a standout. We loved how each bite balanced creamy eggs and tender potatoes, while the feta added a tangy, satisfying finish. A true twist on a classic, the dish felt bright and comforting.
Classic Shakshuka This East-meets-Mediterranean gem arrived bubbling and fragrant. Eggs gently poached in a vibrant tomato and fried onion base, then topped with feta and salty black olives—every spoonful was bursting with warmth and flavor. It's easy to see why this is a signature item on their menu.
Peanut & Berries on Sourdough A delightfully surprising combo: creamy peanut (or almond) butter layered atop toasted sourdough, then topped with fresh berries. The sweetness of the berries, the nutty butter, and the satisfying sourdough crunch made this both wholesome and indulgent—a lovely balance between hearty and bright.
Staff That Shine Our dining experience was elevated by the attentive, friendly, and genuine waiting staff. They greeted us warmly, and maintained a helpful presence without ever being intrusive—truly creating a welcoming vibe.
Fait Maison is a breakfast destination worth visiting. Each dish we tried—the Spanish omelette, classic shakshuka, and peanut & berries sourdough—felt thoughtfully crafted and delicious. The standout service made us feel like cherished guests. All that remains is to plan our next visit! We will be stopping back his evening to purchase some of there...
Read moreFait Maison’s flagship tea salon brings together Middle Eastern flair, French elegance, and Instagram-ready pastel décor in a warm, lively atmosphere. Under the creative eye of Chef‑Patron Om Waleed, the venue combines seasonal floral installations with plush seating and chandeliers—creating an inviting haven just off Gloucester Road.
The menu, available all day, includes hearty Middle Eastern‑inspired breakfasts (think shakshuka, paratha, Hamsa), delicate savouries, and beautifully crafted pastries. Signature dishes like the lamb maklouba, fig salad, and Spanish latte are frequently praised, while the Afro‑Mediterranean afternoon tea—with scones, finger sandwiches, and pistachio‑coconut sponges—delights guests looking for an elegant twist on tradition.
Service is generally warm and attentive—names like Ruffa, Mohamed, Yusuf appear in positive reviews—but some guests report occasional inconsistency, especially during peak hours . A few detractors cite slow service, tasteless sandwiches, and surprise service charges, though many seem to more than forgive these hiccups thanks to the overall experience.
Pastel blossoms, seasonal displays, and a vibrant ambience make it feel like a cosy, chic retreat. A balanced blend of Middle Eastern and European influences—shakshuka, lamb Hamsa, Spanish latte, Karak chai, colourful pastries. Beautifully presented, flavourful, and with seasonal and exotic touches like aseeda and pistachio delights.
Fait Maison Salon de Thé is a charming, Instagram-worthy sanctuary perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or a relaxed meal with a Middle Eastern twist. It excels in atmosphere and presentation, and while service hiccups and value concerns arise, the décor, flavourful dishes, and celebratory spirit—especially for birthdays or special occasions—make it a beloved gem in Kensington. Booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially on weekends or for afternoon tea.
A delightful, floral‑filled escape with authentic, flavorful flair; minor service dips don’t diminish its charm, especially for a...
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