Art lovers in Japan will soon be able to quite literally “eat with their eyes” thanks to a new limited-time afternoon tea experience inspired by two of Europe’s most beloved painters.
Running from July 1st to September 13th, select venues in Tokyo and Nagoya will host The National Gallery London Afternoon Tea ~ Inspired by Monet & Van Gogh, a colorful collaboration themed around the works of Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh.
Created in partnership with the world-famous National Gallery in London, the afternoon tea transforms iconic paintings such as Monet’s Water Lilies and Van Gogh’s Sunflowers into elegant sweets, savory dishes, and drinks designed to look as artistic as the masterpieces themselves.
The menu leans heavily into the idea of dining as a visual experience. Tea stands are styled like painters’ palettes, layered with vivid greens, yellows, blues, and floral accents that mirror the colors found in the artists’ work. Monet’s tranquil waterside scenes are represented through grape and white wine jelly, pistachio mousse, and matcha-inspired creations, while Van Gogh’s sun-drenched Southern France comes to life through mango desserts, citrus flavors, and sunflower-inspired parfaits.
The event also explores a lesser-known connection between the two painters: both Monet and Van Gogh were fascinated by Japan and dreamed of visiting the country someday. Elements of Japonism appear throughout the menu, including shiso-accented tartlets and Japanese-style pork rillettes coated in matcha breadcrumbs.
Guests can also add themed drinks and desserts, including the vivid “Monet Blue” cocktail-inspired beverage or the bright yellow “Passionate Sunflower” mango drink.
The experience will be available at Aoyama St. Grace Cathedral and Shirokane Geihinkan Art Grace Club in Tokyo, along with Strings Hotel Nagoya. Prices start from around 5,800 JPY per person depending on venue and plan.
