Few places in Paris can match the grandeur of the Hôtel de Crillon, overlooking the Place de la Concorde at the foot of the Champs-Élysées, this historic property has witnessed centuries of French history, from royal lessons to revolutions.
The Marie Antoinette Tea Time, designed by Pastry Chef Matthieu Carlin takes inspiration from the French queen’s refined tastes, celebrating her flair for indulgence, excess and elegance.
The Hôtel de Crillon was once a private palace and home to the Count of Crillon, the building was transformed into a luxury hotel in 1909. Its most famous former visitor, Marie Antoinette, is said to have taken piano lessons here, before her tragic fate unfolded just across the square.
It feels only fitting, then, that the Marie Antoinette Tea Time pays tribute to her enduring legacy of elegance and extravagance. Designed by Pastry Chef Matthieu Carlin, this is an afternoon tea fit for a queen, and one of the most decadent in Paris.
The experience unfolds in the Jardin d’Hiver, an opulent space filled with soft light, crystal chandeliers, gilded mirrors and fresh flowers.
The experience begins with a glass of Maison Rare Champagne, poured into a stemless glass created for Marie Antoinette and used at her parties. The design is intentional, without a base, the glass cannot be set down, encouraging continuous sipping and merriment.
Moving on to the savoury course, the truffle croque is a highlight, rich and aromatic, followed by a lobster roll with lime and pomegranate, and a warm Comté cheese and nutmeg gougère, light yet deeply satisfying.
Among the pastries, the Raspberry and Rose Religieuse delights with a crisp base, raspberry jelly, and airy mousse. The Bolivian chocolate and Williams pear crisp hides a luscious caramel centre, while the Lemon meringue tart paired beautifully with a pot of Earl Grey tea with blue flowers. Each creation is exquisitely presented and bursting with flavour.
The presentation throughout is impeccable. The delicate Marie Antoinette tea ware collection adds historical resonance, connecting guests to the queen’s world of refined luxury.
A charming surprise awaits just beyond the tea room, through to the hotel foyer, where guests can view a display of Manolo Blahnik shoes, further linking this experience with the world of couture.
The Hôtel de Crillon itself is breathtaking, and the service is refined. The Marie Antoinette Tea Time is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, an enchanting blend of history, artistry, and indulgence in the heart of Paris.
Marie-Antoinette Tea Time, in partnership with Manolo Blahnik, is available Thursday to Sunday 3 – 6pm until the 23rd of November 2025.
Marie Antoinette Tea Time Menu:
Pre-Dessert
- Comté and Nutmeg Gougère
- Lobster Roll with Lime and Pomegranate
- Black Truffle Croque with Spinach Sprouts
Pastries
- Raspberry and Rose Religieuse
- Crispy Bolivian Chocolate and Williams Pear
- Lemon Meringue Tart with Earl Grey Blue Flower Tea
Breads & Brioche
- Milk Bread with Vanilla Butter and Fleur de Sel
- Brioche Feuilletée with Blackberry and Violet
Sweets
- Pear and Madagascar Vanilla Boudoir
- Chocolate and Caramel Biscuit
The Marie Antoinette Style exhibition is runs until 22 March 2026 at the V&A London.
