Sometimes we all want to do something different for that special occasion or splash out for a much needed treat – without compromising our vegan values of course. 
When we heard about the new vegan afternoon tea at the stunning Sanderson Hotel we couldn’t wait to go along. The hotel is tucked away just off of Oxford Street and you can dine al fresco all year round in the Courtyard Garden, decorated with plastic fabulous pink flamingos and a relaxing water feature. We were out of time sadly for selfies in the swinging chair though. The Courtyard Garden is bright and as we walk in we see it is fully booked with London’s “elite”, older people, youngsters and American tourists enjoying delicate sandwiches and an abundance of usual teas. 
Their vegan afternoon tea has taken a lot of testing out (they should have called me earlier!) and is simply stunning. Everything is made in house from the bread to the sweets and chocolates. 
Our waiter comes over and explains the teas and we get to smell them. I do love trying new things that you wouldn’t ordinarily have at home. The teas are refreshing and although they have dairy free milk our knowable waiter recommends having milk free teas. 
We love the Alice in Wonderland inspired theme with kings and queens on the plates and teapots and “drink me” potions the vegan sandwiches include “Mushroom Duxelle and Avocado Sandwich” and “Grilled Vegetable,  Tomato and Avocado Super Seed Roll.”  
As with tradition these were followed by a selection of cakes – and the Sanderson Hotel did not disappoint with some of the best vegan cakes we have ever had – the Dark Chocolate Chess Board Gateau and the Orange and Peanut Butter Cupcake were tasty, rich and light. 
We needed a breather before attempting to eat the warm scones and strawberry jam so we chatted with one of the chefs from the team (while enjoying a glass of vegan friendly champagne) who told us they had been working hard on creating the best vegan options they could and delighted with the feedback they are getting. 
The service is wonderful and the attention to detail is fantastic. I am that person who always asked for more tomato sauce for my pizza so I would have liked some dairy free mayonnaise or a dip for my sandwiches, and if I am being super fussy I would have loved to have had some vegan cream for my scones too. However a 10 out of 10 for this super special treat, the decor, the service and food makes for a wonderful afternoon in London.  
The stylish Sanderson Hotel has crafted a delightful vegan version of their iconic Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea. Savoury treats include a delicious Mushrooms duxelle and avocado sandwich and Confit courgette and cherry tomatoes in a bridge roll, while sweet delights include a Queen of Hearts pecan, chocolate and coconut cookie and Chocolate and pistachio Blue Caterpillar. Priced at £48, the tea can also be enjoyed with a glass of Laurent-Perrier Champagne for £58, or a glass of Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé for £65. For more information: www.morganshotelgroup.com/originals/originals-sanderson-london/eat-drink/the-restaurant