Marco’s New York Italian is situated in what was once a Police Station in Sheffield but is now the Hampton by Hilton hotel. The menu is inspired by Marco Pierre White’s Italian heritage and love of American/New York dishes. The restaurant aims to make the most of local produce, something which I rate highly.
Last week I was kindly invited to sample their afternoon tea. Phil and I headed across town armed with a camera and hungry tummies. Neither of us had been to Marco’s New York Italian before. It was easy to find and just a 10 minute walk from the Cathedral tram stop. The restaurant is situated just below the Hampton by Hilton hotel, you can’t miss it.
On arrival we discovered we were to be presented with not one, but two afternoon teas. The two afternoon teas on offer at Marco’s New York Italian are; Traditional Handmade Afternoon Tea and New York Italian House Made Afternoon Tea. Today I’ll be talking you through both afternoon teas at the restaurant but within two separate posts.
Feel free to jump straight into the New York Italian but I suggest reading about the traditional option first, it’s worth it.
As soon as you sit down you’ll be presented with a pot of spicy popcorn, I’m fairly sure it was paprika. This popcorn is very tasty but I must insist that you avoid eating too much of it. You’re going to be faced with a rather exciting selection of food. Resist the popcorn.
If you’re in the mood you have the option of indulging in a glass of prosecco with your afternoon tea or you can just make the most of bottomless cups of tea and coffee. We were treated to a glass of prosecco which went down very nicely.
The restaurant has a very laid back and relaxed atmosphere. The seating is comfortable and the leather booths are particularly cosy. I’m keen to take a few friends and visit for a Sunday lunch.
There’s also plenty of space between each table which I think is important in a restaurant. You never want to be sharing conversations with the people on the next table.
Well, isn’t this a beauty? This is the Traditional Afternoon Tea. It comes with a selection of finger sandwiches which include beef and horseradish, ham and mustard, mackerel and beetroot and cream cheese and cucumber. They surround a bed of rocket with a splash of balsamic vinegar.
I always think that finger sandwiches taste just that bit better than a normal sandwich.
Each of the sandwiches in the selection were fresh and delicious. I particularly enjoyed the beef and horseradish and cream cheese and cucumber.
This cute little bottle is filled with traditional lemonade. I absolutely loved this, the presentation obviously played a big part. It’s a little bitter, as you would expect with a traditional lemonade but very refreshing and zingy.
You’ll notice that they like to put their own spin on things here. The afternoon tea is classic but still has a splash of personality to it.
As expected with a classic afternoon tea there were scones. How do you pronounce it? The scones come with jam and clotted cream and once again, the presentation was something every Pinterest user would be proud of.
The scones were soft and fluffy, just the way I like them. I was also pleased to see that they weren’t too big, just the perfect size so you can still gobble up enough cake.
Are you ready for the cakes? This was a plate of real beauty. The selection consisted of fruit tarts, filled brandy snaps, lemon curd sponge, chocolate cake and dipped strawberries. Which would you try first?
I don’t like to pick favourites but the brandy snaps were very very good, maybe even my favourite. They had a crunchy shell and sweet filling, you really must try them. The zingy lemon curd sponge was another favourite along with the dipped strawberries.
Finally, just when you thought you couldn’t eat another thing you’re presented with a cute mini picnic basket. Inside is a bowl of fresh strawberries and a jug of cream. Don’t worry, you’ll squeeze them in, it would be rude not to.
I thought this was a wonderful and unique addition to the afternoon tea. It was a nice surprise and a talking point, a very tasty one at that.
Location: West Bar Green, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S1 2DA
Pricing: £15.00 per person or with a glass of Prosecco, £19.95 per person – be sure to keep an eye on the offers page
Allergies: If you’re looking for a gluten free version of the afternoon tea then simple book in advance and they’ll be more than happy to accommodate you.
I had a fantastic experience at Marco’s New York Italian. The atmosphere was very relaxing, the staff were extremely friendly and helpful and I can assure you that I’ll be visiting again. I’d also like to say a big thank you to Marco’s New York Italian for inviting me over to sample their selection of afternoon teas.
Right, are you ready to find out about the New York Italian? Follow me over to my second post and read all about it.