Loopy Lorna's Tea House @ Church Hill Theatre

The 2013 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

This review is taken from the current (2013) edition.

Hot pinks and dazzling purples dominate both the decor and the cake toppings at this child-friendly café. Named after the founder’s beloved mum, the cheerful establishment offers daytime favourites such as soups, sandwiches and quiches but with an emphasis on dainty cakes and speciality teas. A popular option is the decadent afternoon tea, where a triple-tier cake stand comes laden with smoked salmon, ham and egg sandwiches, as well as mini scones, cream-topped tarts and truffles. There is also a two-course lunch option if afternoon tea is not your bag. A buttery onion tart flavoured with rosemary and thyme comes with hash browns, potato rösti and a green salad tossed with a mustard dressing. The cakes are cut in generous portions, an example being an orange sponge with a moist texture and delightfully sharp citrus icing. A member of the Tea Guild, the café's devotion to tea is displayed in its speciality tea menu, with choices like the Oh My Masala Chai, a fragrant blend of Asian black teas. And the cute knitted tea cosies are the icing on the cake.

• High point: Ideal for mums and tea enthusiasts
• Low point: Gluey potato rösti