Raffles London at the OWO sits within the restored Old War Office building in Whitehall. A leather briefcase labeled ‘Classified’ rests before diners, accompanied by a plane propeller, a mini submarine, and a vintage military telephone. These are not relics but exquisite cakes inspired by Operation Mincemeat, the top-secret World War II mission recently adapted into an award-winning West End musical.
The Historic Operation Mincemeat Mission
This clever deception originated in a basement room under the panelled drawing room where Winston Churchill once worked. Spies devised a plan to divert Hitler’s 100,000 troops from Sicily, enabling an Allied invasion. They released a corpse disguised as a British officer off Spain’s coast, carrying forged documents suggesting a Sardinian attack. The ruse succeeded, redirecting German forces.
One key planner was Ian Fleming, future author of the James Bond novels, who worked with MI5 colleagues at the Old War Office. After an eight-year, £1.4 billion renovation, the Grade II-listed building now houses the luxurious Raffles London at the OWO hotel. The hotel recently introduced an afternoon tea celebrating these events.
Delectable Cakes Honoring the Deception
Each treat transports guests to the era. The chocolate briefcase, mimicking the fake officer’s case, blends coffee and barley malt, evoking wartime rations. ‘Unspoken Hero’ resembles a propeller from a Sicily plane crash, featuring lemon, olive oil, and basil flavors from the island.
The ‘Intelligence Room’ cake, shaped like a rotary telephone, combines dark chocolate and whisky for a robust taste reminiscent of army messes. A submarine-shaped Navy cake honors HMS Seraph, which delivered the body, incorporating Spanish turron for authenticity.
Savories, Scones, and Inclusive Choices
Fresh, generously filled sandwiches arrive first, with smoked salmon standing out. Scones come with indulgent cream, leading to the medal-worthy cakes. The menu offers a near-identical vegan version, plus diabetes-friendly, nut-free, and gluten-free options, ensuring broad accessibility.
A nearby customer notes that West End-themed teas often prioritize style over substance, but this one delivers fully.
Immersive Setting and Tours
Panelled walls, formal portraits, leather Chesterfield sofas, and comfortable chairs create an officer’s mess ambiance. A daily pianist from 3pm enhances the mood, while staff provide precise, attentive service.
The hotel brims with history, including long corridors where wartime messengers pedaled bikes—echoed by heritage Pashley bikes in reception. Even generals reportedly used stabilizers on theirs.
Classic Tea and Tours, held about four times monthly, cost £155 per person and include hotel history. Spies Tours, on Mondays and Tuesdays, explore Whitehall for £157 per person, starting at the Old War Office.
Afternoon tea serves daily in the Drawing Room from 12pm to 5:30pm. Ideal for celebrations, dates, or before the musical.
