The Tea Terrace at House of Fraser Oxford Street, London

For most of us, when christmas is approaching, everybody is all mad about shopping. Even wet and bitter English weather doesn't seem to fade people's festive spirits. Oxford Street is jammed packed with people as always. I personally love shopping, but not a big crowd lover. So I choose the day to shop carefully. Definitely not on the weekend, if I can help it.

But, today - Friday (sigh!) is an exception.. A friend of mine would like to meet up over a cup of tea at The Tea Terrace - House of Fraser. I could hardly say no of course. So, I got myself wrapped up and start making my way to Oxford Street. Let's make the most of the day.

This is the part that I enjoy being in central London, I could get from one place to another mostly on foot. Passing through the Shepherds Market, lively as always, then Mount Street Garden - perfect little hide away from hustle and bustle of London, Grosvernor Square with its rather intimidating security guards at American Embassy (God knows why do they have to have so many securities) and within minutes I arrived at my destination.

I have never been to The Tea Terrace before and I must say, I like how it's been set up. Very English, with Cath Kidston-like touch. It's busy with people having their afternoon tea, chatting away, very cosy. We were quite lucky not to have waited too long for a table. 

By the time we sat down, I started to feel famish. And the christmas special menu did not help either. Too much temptation for me to cope :) So, Turkey Roast it is.. 

My Earl Grey tea arrived first, served in flowery tea cup! Oh.. that is sooo me! I can imagine myself sitting all day at this place.. 

Not long after, came the Turkey Roast complete with all the trimmings. I could not wait to dive in. 

And you know what, it was really worth having! The turkey was tender and moist, covered in just enough jus. Lovely! The brussels sprouts were a little bit overcooked, but the stuffing and mini sausages, the rest of the roast vegetables and cranberry sauce compensated it. 

Considering the hassle and time it takes to cook turkey at home, I would suggest you to pop in to The Tea Terrace instead and treat your family for shopping after!! I know it isn't traditional, but hey, nothing wrong with doing something slightly different from time to time. 

I would not compare the meal I had to the same standard as in a proper restaurant, because it would not be fair as they did not charge as much. But this is the place where you can take a break from a long hours of shopping or simply treating yourself an afternoon tea or catching up with friends over a cup of coffee and cakes. The service was not the finest, but efficient. Good value for money and family friendly. I have no reason to complain... 


The Tea Terrace at House of Fraser Oxford Street London
5th Floor House of Fraser
318 Oxford Street, London W1C 1HF
Phone: +44 20 7499 8970