Time for Tea

February Vogue declared that ‘the tache is back’ thanks front-row fashion show attendees, Hamish Bowles of American Vogue and REM’s Michael Stipe. I don’t think it ever went away in the world of Mr Johnny Vercoutre, proprietor of Time For Tea, a 1940’s tea house on Shoreditch High Street in East London. 

Whilst most of us dip in and out of vintage fashion, very few people can say they live and breathe it. Mr Vercoutre is a debonair and eccentric character who has been instrumental in the re-emergence of the vintage scene. He founded the infamous Modern Times clubs and takes his era very seriously, albeit in a tongue-in-cheek manner; he can often be found djing jazz with a gramophone at various fashion events.

Time for Tea, his 5 storey building, has been lovingly and completely renovated in the style of the 1940’s. It is used for photo shoots, film screenings, private events and parties. I was treated to a tour recently and was delighted at the attention to detail and original features, from bathtubs, tiles, china and wallpaper. No sky dishes allowed!

 A favourite with the fashion crowd and luminaries of the vintage scene, Time for Tea offers a totally authentic 1940’s experience. So if you, like me, have given up the booze for January and fancy a welcome alternative to the ubiquitous coffee bars across the high street, wander in, pick a classic tune on the jukebox and let dapper Johnny serve you tea and cakes.