swallowtail 3
Because you’re an ojousama relaxing in the comforts of your own home, you’re not supposed to do anything on your own. If you want tea poured, or want to take a dish from the afternoon tea set rack, you ring the bell on the table, and someone will come do it for you. The staff seems pretty attentive about the tea, and someone usually came by to pour tea when my cup was almost empty.
There are various desserts on the side menu. This month’s sherbet was made from yuzu liquor. It has about 8% alcohol left in it, so you had to be over 20 to order it. The sherbet was very citrus-y, and I was asked to eat it fast because it melts easily due to the alcohol content.
When it’s time to leave, the butler comes to get you. Usually they say something seasonal as you’re putting on your jacket/coat (in January it was something like “I hope you’re still not in New Year’s mode, as it’s already the middle of the month now”), then they see you off with a loud “Itterasshaimase!”.
There are two patisserie swallowtails on the way back to the station, and you can buy cakes, ice creams, scones, tea, and confitures, as well as logo goods like coasters and tea cozies.
Cameras are prohibited at the cafe. The use of cell phones were banned last month as well, because people apparently kept taking photographs without permission.
If there are open slots that day, you can reserve them by going to the cafe and asking the doorman. The information is posted on the website as well as on a sign outside the cafe.