The Stories and Scents of Florence Bloom at the Table with the Santa Maria Novella Afternoon Tea at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi invites guests on a blossoming journey of sweet and savoury delights, inspired by the iconic fragrances of Santa Maria Novella, the world’s oldest apothecary.

Available at THE LOUNGE from October 1, 2024, the Santa Maria Novella Afternoon Tea unveils a bouquet of flavours that echo the layered scents of Santa Maria Novella and its fragrant Florentine legacy. The city of flowers, the birthplace of the Renaissance, the centre of Medici rule - the multiple legendary identities of Florence find edible expression through the combined craftsmanship of Four Seasons and Santa Maria Novella.

Guests will also receive a fragrance sample gift and the option of getting complimentary engraving on perfume bottles purchased at Santa Maria Novella store.

Sweet Discovery: Firenze 1221 Edition

The five signature sweets are inspired by Firenze 1221 Edition, a collection commemorating the 800th anniversary of Santa Maria Novella, which traces its roots back to Florence in 1221. Like the apothecary’s storied eau de colognes, these vibrant creations offer a richly layered and intricate flavour experience. Highlights include:

Bergamot and Lavender Honey Cream Puff, Diplomat Cream, Pistachio

Fragrance of Inspiration: Eau de Cologne Pot Pourri

• An exquisite treat inspired by the flower petals, leaves and buds of the Tuscan hills. A unique recipe delivers utterly crisp textures, wrapped in smooth diplomat cream. The invigorating tartness of bergamot is complemented by the soft fragrance of lavender.　

Vanilla Mousse, Almond Crème Brûlée, Fig and Rose Gelée

Fragrance of Inspiration: Eau de Cologne Rosa Gardenia

A vivid creation evoking the enchanting gardens of Santa Maria Novella. The sweet tang of tayberry and fig gelée is complemented by the floral aroma of rose, enveloping a hidden centre of rich crème brûlée.

Savory Sojourn: I Giardini Medicei

The savoury selection is based on I Giardini Medicei, a collection recalling the wondrous botanical bounty of the Medici gardens, which flourished under the family’s centuries-long reign over Florence. The menu showcases the artistry of Chef Kensuke Kuze, who honed his craft at the Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne in the Eiffel Tower. Guests can savour delicate yet deep flavours, reminiscent of the eau de parfum that interweave Florentine history with contemporary olfactory tales.

Broccoli Flan with Bergamot Coulis, Ricotta Cheese and Cucumber Gelée, Pink Pepper　

Fragrance of Inspiration: Eau de Parfum Gelsomino

• An homage to the mystical jasmines that bloomed in Medici greenhouses. Jasmine flowers are represented using ricotta cheese and broccoli flan, unfolding delicate sensory delights. Fresh and spicy pink pepper, along with refreshing bergamot, references the fragrance of Gelsomino.

Red Wine Braised Beef Cheek with Timut Pepper Cream, Bread Sable, Radish and Red Cabbage Jelly

Fragrance of Inspiration: Eau de Parfum L’Iris Iris

• A multi-layered creation, dressed in the noble hues of the iris, the emblem of Florence. The petals of the iris flower are meticulously crafted from sablé, red daikon and purple cabbage gelée, with bold flavours of veal stock and beef cheek contained in the pressé.
• The Afternoon Tea includes curated beverages that draw inspiration from the gardens of the Medici family. In addition, THE LOUNGE will also host a fragrance bar featuring sublime scents by Santa Maria Novella, available for a limited period.

Santa Maria Novella Afternoon Tea

• Available at THE LOUNGE from October 1 to November 30, 2024
• Three seatings: 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, 1:30 to 3:30 pm, 4:00 to 6:00 pm
• Weekdays, from JPY 7,800; Weekends and Holidays, JPY 9,800 (paired with a curation of premium Japanese teas)
• For reservations, visit the website or call +81 3 6810 0655

About Santa Maria Novella

The story of Santa Maria Novella goes back to 1221, originating in a Dominican monastery in Florence, Italy. Spanning over 800 years, its legacy is deeply intertwined with Florentine history and culture. Known as the world’s oldest apothecary, Santa Maria Novella now has over 300 stores across 34 countries and is highly acclaimed for its cultivation of herbs, creation of perfumes and cosmetics, as well as the production of candles and liqueurs.