Afternoon Tease at Volupté
The unassuming location, tucked behind Chancery Lane, was an odd choice for Volupté, a venue that's been dubbed the latest neo-burlesque opening (its neighbours tend to cater to a post-work suited crowd). But passing traffic is unlikely to fill the place - it will rely on the burgeoning network of burlesque blogs and grapevines to attract its customers...
The intimate bar upstairs, which is party to feather-fan dancing on some nights, is used as a reception area ahead of the Afternoon Tease where innovative cocktails, such as a Japanese Slipper (tequila, fresh lemon juice and Midori) are served. Downstairs, the décor screams girly boudoir, with stylish printed wallpaper, chairs draped in lustrous fabrics and a folding screen in a space cleared between the tables from which sultry performers with names like Tallulah Mockingbird emerge during tea.
The champagne is a good start to set the tone, and is followed by delicate finger sandwiches and patisseries, then sweet-smelling fresh scones with jam and clotted cream and teas, served by "Teasmaids" in the traditional housemaids' black and white outfits, but with a sexy twist (fishnet tights and plunging cleavages). Performances range from husky singers belting out Nina Simone to bold burlesque strip tease acts. It's a perfect girly outing - women make up most of the audience - although the three couples who were there also looked like they were having a good time.
Need to know: Afternoon Tease is on the first Saturday of every month 2.30-6pm, and costs £6 on entry and £18 for the full menu or £10 for a cream tea with champagne and tea. Volupté, 9 Norwich St, tel. 020 7831 1622, www.volupte-lounge.com, reservations@volupte-lounge.com, tube station: Chancery Lane
Ginny McGrath
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/travel/destinations/england/article611899.ece
