The experience at the Nobu Hotel London Portman Square Matcha Masterclass and Afternoon Tea was nothing short of exceptional. What made the experience particularly memorable was how much we learned about matcha before the Afternoon Tea itself even began. The masterclass was immersive, informative, and beautifully delivered, offering genuine insight into the origins, traditions, and rituals surrounding matcha preparation.

We were taught how to properly prepare and mix matcha, carefully correcting both the water temperature and the precise weight of the powder before sieving it to achieve the perfect balance. We then sampled a warm, traditional matcha drink in its purest form, accompanied by a delicate matcha biscuit designed to gently cut through the natural bitterness of the tea. It was a thoughtful and elegant touch that allowed us to truly appreciate the complexity of matcha before transforming the remaining tea into either a beautifully balanced cocktail or an equally refined non-alcoholic version.

The cocktail-making element was especially enjoyable and added a wonderfully social aspect to the experience. Prepared at the bar alongside a specially trained professional, the process was interactive, creating a relaxed and engaging atmosphere before being seated for the Afternoon Tea itself. The finished cocktail was refreshingly light, and a perfect palate-awakening start to the afternoon and a lovely way to bond and share the experience before indulging in the beautifully curated Afternoon Tea that followed

The Afternoon Tea itself was a superb reinterpretation of the traditional British ritual, elevated with Nobu’s signature Japanese. The savoury selection, which was served first on a three tiered stand, was outstanding throughout. Alongside favourites such as the Crispy Rice and Smoked Salmon Shokupan Club, it was particularly delightful to discover a miniature version of Nobu’s famous Black Cod Butter Lettuce, which brought the restaurant’s iconic flavours into the Afternoon Tea setting with remarkable finesse. The Nobu Style Wagyu Slider was equally indulgent and perfectly executed.

The sweet treats then followed and the scones were another highlight: wonderfully light and freshly baked, with both traditional plain and matcha varieties served warm alongside Strawberry Shiso Jam, Clotted Cream, and an exquisite Yuzu Curd. The combination managed to honour classic British Afternoon Tea traditions whilst introducing subtle Japanese nuances.

Desserts were presented beautifully, again served on a three tired stand. The rhubarb choux was a particularly lovely nod to a classic British flavour profile, while the matcha ice cream mochi kept the theme of the afternoon running. The mochido could be dipped into accompanying syrups, adding an interactive element that perfectly echoed the creativity introduced during the masterclass earlier in the afternoon.

Every aspect of the experience felt meticulously considered, from the attentive service to the seamless balance between education, creativity, and indulgence. This was far more than simply an Afternoon Tea: it was a refined and immersive culinary experience that brought together Japanese tradition and British elegance in the most sophisticated way.

Matcha Masterclass Nobu Afternoon Tea at Nobu Hotel London Portman Square starts from £99pp. Please click here for more details.