Afternoon tea is best served in a relaxed, comfortable setting, often with a little culinary twist that doesn’t stray too far from the traditional British spread that we all know and love. As a busy working parent, my perfect afternoon tea is at the weekend – away from the kids, thankfully – in a hushed, sumptuous environment, with a fabulous friend to while away a few hours. The result is elegant interiors, a library that hosts a monthly book club, and an Alchemy Bar, which serves the afternoon tea and evening cocktails. Single, sumptuous bites making this afternoon tea one that’s both cosy and elegant. Mr Ma’s Afternoon Tea is available at The Academy, 21 Gower St, Fitzrovia, London WC1E 6HG.