The Merrion is a 5-star hotel located in the heart of Dublin City. Set on Upper Merrion Street, the property combines four beautifully restored Grade I Listed Georgian townhouses with a contemporary Garden Wing overlooking two private period gardens. The hotel is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World.
It offers 123 guest rooms and 19 suites, each thoughtfully designed with Irish fabrics, antiques, and décor that reflect the elegance of the original Georgian architecture. Modern amenities and the latest technology complement the classic surroundings. Facilities include two restaurants, two bars, a luxury spa, and a swimming pool.
Dining options range from casual to fine dining: The Cellar Bar, located in the original 18th-century wine vaults, serves a relaxed gastro-pub menu, while The Garden Room offers modern Irish cuisine. Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, a two-Michelin-star restaurant, provides an exceptional fine-dining experience.
Guests can also enjoy cocktails in the intimate No. 23 bar, unwind on the Garden Terrace during warmer months, or relax by the open fires in the Drawing Rooms.
The Merrion’s signature Art Afternoon Tea is a standout experience, featuring pastries inspired by the works of Irish artists such as J.B. Yeats, William Scott, and Louis Le Brocquy. It is served in the restored original Drawing Rooms of the Main House.
This two-hour experience includes two courses accompanied by a curated selection of teas and coffees.
The room had a refined, inviting atmosphere. Our comfortable sofa sat beside the fireplace, and the table was elegantly appointed.
Our service began with a glass of Henriot Souverain Brut NV, followed by the presentation of the afternoon tea menu. The tea selection was extensive, ranging from classic black teas to rare herbal infusions. The standout choice was the Merrion Whiskey Tea – a distinctive blend of Ceylon black tea, whiskey wood, and vanilla. For those who prefer it, a selection of coffees is also available.
The first course of our Art Afternoon Tea began with a three-tier stand presentation featuring savouries, breads, cakes, and freshly baked warm scones.
The sandwich tier featured five selections: Burren Smokehouse smoked salmon with horseradish cream on wholegrain bread; loin of ham with Pommery mustard and tarragon on white bread; Irish corn-fed chicken breast with truffle mayonnaise on wholegrain bread; hen’s egg mayonnaise on a brioche bridge roll; and organic cucumber with smoked paprika, mint, and Glenilen yoghurt on white bread. Each of the sandwiches were excellent – unfussy, well-balanced, and carefully crafted.
The bread and cake tiers featured warm plain and fruit scones, served with indulgent accompaniments including Glenilen clotted cream, raspberry jam, and lemon curd. The cakes were equally impressive, with a moist Portercake, a classic checkerboard Battenberg, and delicate slices of lemon bread.
All items were freshly baked, offering a delightful balance of traditional flavours, beautifully executed and thoroughly enjoyable. Servings are generous, so be sure to arrive hungry!
The second course featured the signature Merrion Art Tea pastries, where each creation is inspired by an artwork housed within the hotel. We were served three masterpieces: the Hazelnut Gâteau with a Coffee Bavarois, inspired by Stephen McKenna’s ‘Farm Buildings’; the refreshing combination of sour apple, Chantilly, and apple pâte de fruit, drawn from William Gillard’s ‘Fruit and Game’; and a delightful vanilla biscuit with orange curd, paying homage to William Scott’s ‘Frying Pan, Funnel, Eggs and Lemons’.
The level of attention to detail in both flavour and presentation was remarkable, showcasing a creativity and uniqueness that set these pastries apart from more traditional afternoon tea offerings.
A vegan version of the afternoon tea is also available, featuring plant-based sandwiches, scones, and pastries.
Art Afternoon Tea is served daily at 12.30PM, 1PM, 3.30PM, and 4PM, priced at €68 per person or €88 with champagne. Gluten-free menus are available on request. Advance bookings are required.
From November 27th to January 4th, The Merrion will serve its Festive Afternoon Tea menu, featuring a variety of homemade seasonal delights such as finger sandwiches, gingerbread, meringues, and mince pies. The Afternoon Tea includes festive Christmas Carols on weekends throughout December. The Festive Afternoon Tea is priced at €75 per person, with the carols-accompanied option costing €85 per person.
The Merrion’s Art Afternoon Tea is of the highest standard, consistently providing a refined and quality experience. The occasion was characterised by delicious food, a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, and exemplary service, making for a truly memorable and enjoyable afternoon. Each element – from the freshly baked scones to the art-inspired pastries – reflects attention to detail, creativity, and a commitment to excellence.
With Christmas approaching, this experience would make an ideal gift for anyone who appreciates good food, art, and a touch of Dublin heritage!
For more information, you can visit https://www.merrionhotel.com/.
