Edible Dirt Steals The Show At London's Secret Garden Afternoon Tea

Similar to high tea, afternoon tea is a common tradition in England with delicious scones, mini-sandwiches, jams, and spreads served alongside beautiful teacups and saucers. But, when it comes to The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea service in London, this is no ordinary affair. Inspired by one of Frances Hodgson Burnett's most popular children's novels of the same name, this dining experience has a truly magical twist that adults and kids alike are sure to love. 

The whimsical experience is taking social media by storm, namely for its colorful springtime blooms, which are all edible — down to the flowers and dirt. Here, you can actually eat the flowers (made of white chocolate), the chocolate crumble soil, and chocolate pots. The edible, intricate butterflies perched atop the pastries are also stars of the show.

"Okay, I'm pretty sure I found the most unique afternoon tea in London," said one TikToker, adding, "There were so many surprises, even the dirt was edible." 

The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea's tasty delights can be found tucked away in the luxurious 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences from Taj Hotels. The titular experience is one of the newest themed afternoon teas hosted by its on-site, award-winning restaurant Kona. Opened in 2015, Kona has been delighting guests with unique afternoon tea options for years, including The Indian Jasmine Afternoon Tea, which embodies the enticing flavors of Indian cuisine, but The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea service is truly something special.

Located less than half a mile away from the famed Buckingham Palace, Kona's The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea service is unlike any other dining experience and is sure to transport guests inside the incredible world of a cherished children's classic. (Published in 1911, the book "The Secret Garden" tells the story of Mary Lennox grieving the loss of her parents while finding a path to healing, spurred by tending to the garden.)

Drawing inspiration from the beloved tale, The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea enchants the minute guests arrive. They first must hunt for a golden key in order to unlock a box that sits on the table that reads, "Everything is made out of magic." Once it's opened, they will find a surprise inside: A chocolate key nestled beneath a mound of that edible dirt and flowers, which unlocks the start of the posh dining experience.

From the white tablecloths embroidered with floral designs to the fine china, elegance is found at every turn at The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea service. The lavish experience truly doesn't skimp on the ornate details — or the expense. The all-inclusive afternoon costs £75 per person (about $96 in US currency). Those with dietary restrictions or allergies can also partake in this merry feast. Vegan and vegetarian options are available; however, they must be requested at least 48 hours in advance.

For those keen on enjoying an enchanting tea time inspired by a literary treasure, Taj Hotels says The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea is sure to "transport diners to a stunning Yorkshire garden with every bite."

But it's not just the tea that is delightful. On the menu, guests will find a plethora of delicious-looking bites, from cucumber, beetroot, and basil butter sandwiches served on tomato bread to the melt-in-your-mouth olive oil and lime cake with mango ganache (a fruity take on a traditional chocolate ganache). And what's tea time without tea? Also featured are the UK-based Bird & Blend Tea Co.'s eco-conscious varieties, which include a blended black tea with hints of lavender and a fruity green tea.

Adult guests can also upgrade the experience with drink options from The Secret Garden Gin Distillery, which features gems like Secret Garden Lemon Verbena, a refreshing mixture of gin, grapefruit, and rosemary.

The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea is served from Thursdays to Sundays with time slots of 12 p.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. available with advance reservations.