Kitsunedo

One visitor was struck by the four layers of the peach and plum shortcake, and by the way the fruit flavours came through in turn. The peach’s fragrance melded with lightly sweetened cream, followed by the tartness of the plum.

Seasonal ingredients take centre stage in some of Kitsunedo’s sweets. On another visit, a Japanese chestnut Eton mess was described as combining chestnut paste, candied chestnuts with their inner skins intact, and chestnut ice cream for layers of chestnut flavour. A visitor who ordered the strawberry pavlova reported a combination of fresh strawberries, strawberry ice cream, cream and meringue. The crisp meringue adds a texture distinct from the fruit and cream. If you’re deciding between desserts, you might choose one that puts fruit first or one built around layers of meringue or chestnut.

The menu also lists an Amaou strawberry Eton mess, strawberry glass desserts and fruit sandwiches. Scone pie sandwiches and Napoleon pie are marked as requiring reservations, so check ahead if you have your eye on one. Drinks to accompany something sweet include tea and medicinal chai. The menu notes that you can choose loose-leaf tea from Teapond, which is brewed from the leaves and takes time to prepare. With a wide selection of teas, choosing a cup to suit your mood after settling on a dessert is part of the pleasure.