Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi presents An Afternoon Tea with Oscar de la Renta.Taking place from 13-26 January at Episodes, one of the capital’s most celebrated culinary spaces, this fashion led interpretation of the classic afternoon ritual is inspired by the brand’s Pre-Spring 2026 collection; a vision of a vibrant garden in full bloom, translated through taste and thoughtful presentation.
Drawing on the collection’s blossoming alliums, foxglove prints and botanical details inspired by Co-Creative Directors Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia’s garden reverie, Executive Pastry Chef Alexandre Thabard has crafted an experience that mirrorsthe maison’s couture craftsmanship. Delicate structures, layered textures and floral accents echo the collection’s airy cotton poplins, lace guipures and cascading appliqués, creating a seamless dialogue between fashion and flavour.
The menu begins with a delicate spiced tomato tart before moving into an ensemble of elevated savouries, where precision and embellishment take centre stage. Highlights include foie gras mille-feuille layered with fermented berries, lobster tournedos crowned with Krystal caviar, roasted beet and goat cheese finished with Palace honey, hibiscus salmon rosette with floral cream, and crab and avocado tartlets beneath a blueberry veil – compositions that reflect the collection’s interplay of softness, structure and botanical nuance.
From the chefs’ trolley, guests can enjoy pâté encroûte with garden salad and a baba infused with strawberry, mint and basil Chantilly,recalling the collection’s feather motifs and ornamental detailing.The pastry selection reflects the house’s romantic aesthetic, featuring jasmine and peach with jasmine Chantilly, an exotic pavlova with coconut cream and mango, chocolate cardamom with date sponge and milk chocolate mousse, and a tonka cheesecake with rhubarb and strawberry, served alongside freshly baked scones with clotted cream and house-made preserves.
To complement the culinary experience, the afternoon tea will feature two bespoke beverage pairings crafted exclusively for the collaboration. Guests will be welcomed with a palate-opening creation designed to introduce the floral and fruity nuances of the menu, followed by a second pairing specially developed to accompany the pâté encroûte, enhancing its richness with balancing aromatics. In addition, guests may select from the Episode’s curated tea list, featuring a wide array of fine, premium, oolong, black and herbal blends – from Rose White and Jasmine Phoenix Pearl to Majestic Earl Grey, Chamomile Blossom and rare premium infusions.
An Afternoon Tea with Oscar de la Renta will be available from the 13-26 January, served from 2 to 6pm at Episodes, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi. The experience starts from AED 245 per person and advance reservations are required. For bookings and further information, please contact +971 2 690 7999 or moauh-restaurants@mohg.com