The Most Elegant Afternoon Teas in Hong Kong.
Although the British terms “afternoon tea” and “high tea” are often used interchangeably now, the concepts traditionally comprise three main elements—scones, cakes, and of course, tea. Hong Kong’s long history with Britain has left a heavy influence on the love for afternoon tea in the city. With its abundance of luxury hotels and independent boutiques, there’s never a shortage of options for afternoon-tea-seekers. Here are some of the most elegant afternoon teas in Hong Kong.
The Lounge & Bar at The Ritz Carlton
Perched high up in the clouds on the 102nd floor, The Lounge & Bar at The Ritz Carlton offers a sophisticated respite away from the crowds. Situated within the heart of Kowloon, the venue is furnished with elegant, glitzy ceiling fixtures and floor-to-ceiling windows boasting the showstopping skyline views. Guests come here to try the scrumptious afternoon tea set, which frequently changes with the season.
As the leaves fall, the Autumn Harvest Afternoon Tea bids farewell to the summer heat and celebrates the joyous approach of Autumn. The set is made with seasonal ingredients, including pumpkin, cinnamon and chestnut, for a heartwarming platter. Add on the Premium package (HK$998 for two with Prunier Caviar), using caviar of the highest finesses, or the Luxury set (HK$1,598 for two with Prunier Paris Caviar (30g) to enjoy the gastronomic genius of Emile Prunier.
Try now: Autumn Harvest Afternoon Tea (HK$418 for one; HK$698 for two)
www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/china/hong-kong/dining/dining-experiences/afternoon-tea
The Lobby at Peninsula
Peninsula is synonymous with authentic British charm, a hotel opened initially by the Brits over a century ago. With its longstanding history and undeniable iconic aura, the flagship hotel’s lobby dining and drinking venue is an ideal spot for an indulgent afternoon tea. Served daily at The Lobby, the revered tradition is backed with mesmerising live music from The Lobby Strings.
The year-round classic tea set features a selection of finger sandwiches and savoury pastries, served with warm, freshly-baked scones and a hot pot of your choice of tea. Guests can add on a bottle of sparkling tea (HK$928 for two persons) or two glasses of champagne (HK$1,088 for two persons).
Try now: The Peninsula Classic Afternoon Tea (HK$418 for one; HK$748 for two)
www.peninsula.com/en/hong-kong/hotel-fine-dining/the-lobby-afternoon-tea
The Lounge at Four Seasons
With eight Michelin stars under its belt sprawled across eight of its restaurants, Four Seasons Hong Kong exudes sophisticated charm in an intimate environment. Upon settling into the stunning hotel, guests can reside at The Lounge, located next to the lobby’s dramatic glass atrium, where a selection of international and local delights await, including the prestigious afternoon tea.
Afternoon Tea at The Lounge Four Seasons features an array of seasonal delicate savouries and sweets, presented in a traditional tea set and served with a selection of fine teas. Guests can also opt for the vegan afternoon tea experience, which is dairy-free and just as indulgent.
Try now: Four Seasons Afternoon Tea (HK$308 for one; HK$588 for two (weekdays), HK$328 for one; HK$628 for two (weekends)
www.fourseasons.com/hongkong/dining/restaurants/the_lounge/afternoon_tea
The Lounge at JW Marriott
Part of the world-renowned luxury hospitality group, JW Marriott Hong Kong is perched atop Pacific Place in downtown Admiralty. Boasting facilities which range from an outdoor swimming pool to a state-of-the-art gym, the hotel is an urban retreat away from hectic city life. The Lounge is located in the lobby area of the hotel, spanning across a generous space and serving afternoon tea delicacies, as well as a decadent buffet.
Partnering with the world-renowned luxury skincare brand Natura Bissé, JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong launched its limited-edition tea set available from 1 October to 15 November 2020. Guests who order the afternoon tea set will receive a complimentary Diamond Collection skincare three-piece trial set and gift vouchers, while stocks last. Add on HK$100 per person for a glass of Moёt & Chandon champagne to enhance the experience.
Try now: JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong x Natura Bissé limited edition Diamond Afternoon Tea Set (HK$HK$268 for one; HK$468 for two (weekdays), HK$288 for one; HK$488 for two (weekends)
modules.marriott.com/dining/hkgdt-jw-marriott-hotel-hong-kong/the-lounge/home-page
Café Gray Deluxe at The Upper House
Floating above Hong Kong’s city lights, The Upper House is a luxury boutique design hotel, with a sophisticated, understated appeal. Although the hotel (or as they like to say, the house) doesn’t boast an abundance of facilities, it instead focuses on five-star service and ensuring guests have the most pleasant experience. Designed by the highly-acclaimed André Fu, one can also marvel at the stunning interiors and architecture.
Offering floor-to-ceiling windows which showcase spectacular views of the harbour, Café Gray Deluxe is a prime spot for city gazing and sophisticated dining. Recently launching its collaboration with Hong Kong-born tea brand Teakha, the restaurant is serving an exclusive afternoon tea set which includes two savoury and two sweet creations which infuse teas from Plantation by Teakha. Prepare for some top-of-the-range tea blends served with sweet and savoury delicacies to devour.
Try now: Teaka x Café Gray Deluxe Afternoon Tea Set (HK$285 for one; HK$480 for two)
www.thehousecollective.com/en/the-upper-house/restaurants-and-bars/cafe-gray-deluxe
Garden Lounge at The Murray, A Niccolo Hotel
Part of the Niccolo Hotel group, The Murray is nestled within bustling Central, away from the chaos. The luxury design hotel boasts sophisticated charm in an intimate setting where the customers come first. As an independent hotel, it has attracted the likes of many tourists and locals looking for an urban respite, whilst being within close proximity of the city and its shopping and dining ventures.
Overlooking the picturesque St John’s Cathedral, the elegant Garden Lounge serves year-round afternoon teas alongside its all-day menu. Offering a contemporary aesthetic of cool greys with gold accents, the al-fresco space is popular amongst photo-seekers looking for a chic shot. Guests can indulge in the classic afternoon tea, which includes a combination of sweet and savouries, paired with an aromatic pot of tea.
Try now: Afternoon Tea at Garden Lounge HK$640 for two
Tea WG
The world-famous Tea WG salon is famed for its most-prized speciality—tea, of course. With several locations across Hong Kong, the luxury boutique offers daily afternoon tea sets which infuse its signature tea blends into the sweet and savoury dishes. Try their seasonal menus, which vary every few months.
