Whether you have visitors in town, a special birthday to celebrate, or just fancy treating yourself, here is our ultimate guide to afternoon tea!
Hong Kong may be known for its staples such as har gau and char sui, but sometimes we like to stray a little from our local faves and go quintessentially British (if just for an afternoon!). Whether you have visitors in town, are looking to celebrate a special occasion or just need a pick-me-up, this is our ultimate guide to afternoon tea! Who doesn’t want to spend time sippin’ champagne whilst munching scones, pastries and other delights? We don’t need any more convincing, it’s time to par-tea!
Read more: Your Ultimate Guide To Free-Flow Brunch In Hong Kong
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Traditional Afternoon Teas
Modern Afternoon Teas
Traditional Afternoon Teas:
The Murray, Hong Kong
Going all out to offer the very best when it comes to afternoon tea, The Murray has three different offerings for guests to choose from. Opt for afternoon tea at Garden Lounge overlooking St. John’s cathedral, an afternoon tea complete with sweeping views at Popinjays, or enjoy an alfresco and pet-friendly afternoon tea at Cotton Tree Terrace. Although all three offerings have their own unique touches, each tea set features a range of creative sweet and savoury delights, along with the obligatory home made scones. Popinjays set offers tempting dishes such as marinated spider crab, pineapple salsa, popcorn; and a passion fruit and milk chocolate cake. While Garden Lounge goes a little more traditional, with offerings that include smoked salmon with lemon, cranberry and butter; cucumber slice with Greek yoghurt, dill and salmon roe; a strawberry and mandarin tart and more.
Throughout the holiday season, both Popinjays and Garden Lounge will be serving up lavish festive tea sets, which are sure to get you in the holiday spirit! You can find more information on the Christmas afternoon tea offerings and more festive dining offers The Murray here. What’s more, be sure to look out for The Murray’s special dog-friendly Paws For Tea at The Tai Pan, which features special sweet and savoury treats for both you and your furry friend!
When: Afternoon tea at Popinjays available Tuesday to Friday, 2:30pm to 4:30pm; and weekends, 3:30pm to 5pm. Afternoon tea at Garden Lounge and Cotton Tree Terrace available daily, 2:30pm to 4:15pm; and 4:30pm to 6:30pm. Festive afternoon tea at Popinjays and Garden Lounge available from 1, December 2019 to 5, January 2020.
Where: The Murray, Hong Kong, 22 Cotton Tree Drive, Central, Hong Kong
How much: $728 for Flamboyant Festive Afternoon Tea for two at Popinjays; $688 for Christmas Afternoon Tea for two at Garden Lounge (with pet-friendly and al fresco option at Cotton Tree Terrace). $449 per person for Paws for Tea.
Tea WG
Calling all tea lovers! With 800 different single-estate, exceptional harvests and exclusive tea blends from all over the world, Tea WG is here to offer you a quali-tea dining experience. With four afternoon tea sets to choose from, you’ll be able to determine what suits you the best from the menu here. Also, while you’re there, don’t forget to check out the (very aesthetic) tea tasting sets!
When: Daily, 3pm to 6pm
Where: Multiple locations across Hong Kong
How much: 1837 Set: $158 per set; Chic Set: $248 per set; Fortune Set; $308 per set; Manhattan: $388 per set (plus 10% service charge).
High Tea at SEVVA
If you weren’t sold on SEVVA’s gorgeous harbour view location and its stunning high ceiling laced with florals, we’re sure its afternoon tea sets will win you over. Its signature tea set seems like an absolute dream with staples like smoked salmon on toasted crumpets and more unexpected choices such as a foie gras mousse with onion marmalade. What’s more, the vegetarian option sounds just as decadent as the signature tea set, featuring wild mushroom ragout and SEVVA’s speciality vegetable spring rolls. Go on, treat yourself.
When: Weekdays, 2:30pm to 5pm; Saturdays, 3pm to 5:30pm
Where: 25/F, Princes Building, 10 Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong
How much: $720 for two. Call 2537 1388 or or email [email protected] for details.
Sky Lounge, Sheraton, Hong Kong
Enjoy your tea in true style while taking in sweeping views of the harbour! The afternoon tea at the Harbour View Lounge in Sheraton Hong Kong serves up gourmet savouries alongside freshly-baked sweets and pastries. The theme of the set changes throughout the year so get in touch to find out what’s on offer. Perfect for a truly indulgent afternoon.
When: Weekdays, 3pm to 6pm; Weekends and Public Holidays, 2pm to 6pm
Where: 18/F, Sheraton Hong Kong, 20 Nathan Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: Prices vary depending on the set; call 2369 1111 for details.
Fortnum’s 181
From signature smoked salmon with tartare sauce, to classic scotch egg with piccalilli, Fortnum 181 is serving up the best of the best! On top of the classic afternoon tea menus, 181’s vegetarian menu is just as mouth-watering – we’re talking Fortnum’s famous Battenberg cakes, Barber’s cheddar with fig and fennel chutney finger sandwiches and of course, freshly baked fruit scones! If you’re feeling extra fancy, top it off with a glass of Champagne. Be sure to make a reservation here!
When: Daily, 2pm to 5pm
Where: Shop 022, G/F, K11 Atelier, Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: Afternoon Tea Set: $588 per person, $288 for children; High Tea Set and Vegetarian Tea Set: $588 per person; $688 to include a glass of Fortnum’s Blanc de Blanc NV Champagne, or $648 to include Fortnum’s Sparkling Tea. Email [email protected] for details.
Palm Court, The Langham Hotel
Famed as the birthplace of the traditional afternoon tea experience in London, Palm Court’s afternoon tea with Wedgwood is a must-try in HK. Complete with a warm selection of fresh plain and raisin scones, served with cream and strawberry jam, why mess with the classics?
When: Weekdays, 3pm to 5:30pm; weekends and public holidays, 2:15pm to 4:15pm and 4:30pm to 6:30pm
Where: The Langham Hotel, 8 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: $368 per person; $628 for two. Or $548 per person; and $918 for two, to include a glass of Perrier-Jouët, NV, Brut Champagne. Call 2132 7898 or email [email protected] for details.
Café Gray Deluxe, The Upper House
Dine on the 49th floor overlooking Victoria Harbour at Café Gray Deluxe, located in the utterly swanky Upper House in Pacific place. The dainty tea sandwiches are deliciously paired with intricate sweets, such as a strawberry shortcake with Chantilly cream and golden raisin scones with Devonshire clotted cream.
When: Daily, 3:30pm to. 5:30pm
Where: 49/F, The Upper House, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Hong Kong
How much: $285 per person; $480 for two. Add a glass of “Mini” Brut Champagne or Rosé for $150. Call 3968 1106 or email [email protected] for details.
Lobby Lounge, Island Shangri-La
Tropical gardens, live entertainment, and a nice cup of tea? Sign us up! You can choose between either the Signature Afternoon Tea set, including classics like salmon & cream cheese bagels, or the Pink Afternoon Tea set which offers pink-themed desserts such as the rose macaron.
When: Weekdays, 3pm to 6pm; weekends and public holidays, 2pm to 6pm
Where: 6/F, Island Shangri-La, Pacific Place, Supreme Court Road, Central, Hong Kong
How much: Signature Afternoon Tea Set: $308 per person; $528 for two. Pink Afternoon Tea Set: $338 per person; $558 for two. Add a glass of Champagne for $128. Call 2877 3838 for details.
The Window Café, The Kowloon Hotel, Harbour Plaza
Overlooking the iconic shopping street along Nathan Road, this café gives you the best bang for your buck and is one of the most inexpensive options on offer. Along with the afternoon tea set, The Window Café also offers an all-you-can-eat afternoon tea buffet.
When: Afternoon Tea Set: Weekdays, 3pm to 5pm. Afternoon Tea Buffet: Weekends and public holidays, 3pm to 5pm.
Where: The Kowloon Hotel, 19-21 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: Afternoon Tea Set: $238 per person; Afternoon Tea Buffet: $278 per person. A la carte options also available. Call 2929 2888 or email [email protected] for details.
Afternoon Tea with Ruinart at Statement
From an open egg sandwich with salmon roe, to celeriac tartelettes, Statement’s afternoon tea menu will definitely not disappoint. The best part? It includes unlimited sandwich refills! While you’re enjoying the palatable cinnamon carrot cake and sipping on Champagne, don’t forget to enjoy the unique ambience of this space. Located in the old Police Headquarters Building in Tai Kwun, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the unique historical site, and be surrounded by both traditional and contemporary art projects.
When: Daily, 3pm to 5pm
Where: Police Headquarters Block 01, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: $288 per person (minimum of two persons required); $388 to include a Glass of Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Champagne. Call 2848 3000 for details.
The Lounge, Four Seasons
With all-time classics, like freshly baked scones, alongside more ambitious (and delectable) spins, like its devastatingly adorable caramelised puff pastry or fresh mint gelato filled with lime and strawberry semifreddo, your taste buds will be zinging for days on end.
When: Weekdays and public holidays, 2:30pm to 4:15pm, and 4:30pm to 6:30pm; weekends, 2pm to 4pm and 4:15pm to 6:15pm
Where: 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong
How much: Afternoon Tea Set: Weekdays, $308 per person; $588 for two. Weekends and public holidays, $328 per person; $628 for two. Afternoon tea buffet:$438 per person aged 5 and above. A la carte options are also available! Call 3196 8820 or email [email protected] for details.
Classic Afternoon Tea at The Peninsula
This is the iconic Hong Kong afternoon tea. Whether you’re visiting the city or have been here for years, tea at The Peninsula is bucket list-worthy, for sure. Enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, sweet and savoury pastries, freshly-baked raisin scones and your choice of teas from The Peninsula Tea Collection. Add on a glass on bubbles for an extra special tea to remember!
When: Daily, 2pm to 6pm (first-come, first-served)
Where: The Lobby, G/F, The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: $398 per person; $718 for two. Add a Glass of Deutz Peninsula, Brut Champagne for $220. Call 2696 6772 or email [email protected] for details.
The Verandah at The Repulse Bay
Sophisticated and refined, The Verandah at Repulse Bay is all about offering the relaxed charm of the original Repulse Bay Hotel. Serving traditional Continental cuisine with a modern twist, The Verandah brings about elements of a bygone era (think rich flavours, fine wines, witty conversations and unrivalled service). The Traditional English afternoon tea set has all the classics, from home-made scones with clotted cream and jams, to French pastries and finger sandwiches. One of the unique selling points here has to be the ambience – you’re set in a historic building, surrounded by an elegant garden, overlooking a picture-perfect view of the sea.
When: Wednesday to Saturday, 3pm to 5:30pm; Sunday, 3:30pm to 5:30pm
Where: 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay, Hong Kong
How much: Weekdays, $308 per person; $588 for two. Weekends and public holidays, $328 per person; $604 for two. Call 2292 2822 or email [email protected] for details.
The Lounge and Bar, Ritz-Carlton
There are times where all you want is something timeless and simple, and The Lounge & Bar’s English Afternoon Tea set is sure to hit the spot. Located below Ozone in the ICC, with a view to put most helicopter rides to shame, go ahead and munch away on a scone with jam and clotted cream or a raspberry confit tart – sometimes all you need is a classic.
When: Monday to Thursday, 3pm to 6pm; Friday, weekends and public holidays, 2:15pm to 4:15pm and 4:30pm to 6:30pm
Where: 102/F, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, No.1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: $418 per person; $688 for two. Call 2263 2270 or email [email protected] for details.
Clipper Lounge, Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong
An institution in its own right, this luxurious lounge offers afternoon tea in a timeless and elegant setting. The spread includes British classics like finger sandwiches, sweets, scones and its signature homemade rose-petal jam. For tea, Clipper Lounge offers seasonal-themed flavours, giving you the complete afternoon tea experience!
When: Weekdays, 2:30pm to 6pm; Saturday and public holidays, 2pm to 4pm and 4:15pm to 6pm; Sunday, 3:30pm to 6pm
Where: 5 Connaught Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
How much: Weekdays, $318 per person, add a glass of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial or Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial for $498; Weekends & Public Holidays, $338 per person, add a glass of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial or Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial for $518. Call 2825 4007 or email [email protected] for details.
Modern Afternoon Teas:
Old Bailey
Fancy an exquisite afternoon tea that puts a creative spin on Jiangnan culinary traditions? From jujube paste crispy crepes to organic soy milk puddings, Old Bailey is an innovative culinary game changer that offers high-quality dishes sourced from a network of artisan producers. Since most ingredients are free from preservatives and additives, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is how to fit another afternoon tea sesh into your busy schedule!
When: Daily, 2pm to 6pm
Where: 2/F, JC Contemporary, Tai Kwun, Old Bailey Street, Central, Hong Kong
How much: $388 for two. Upgrade to Plantation Speciality Tea for $80, or add a glass of Champagne for $250 per person. Call 2877 8711 or email [email protected] for details.
Tiffin, Grant Hyatt
This popular afternoon tea involves working your way through three layers of sweet and savoury French delicacies. Enjoy your canelés, éclairs, sables and verrines, before finishing with a visit to the ice-cream counter.
When: 3:30pm to 5:30pm
Where: Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
How much: Weekdays, $298 per person; Weekends and public holidays, $328 per person. Add a glass of Champagne for $140 per person. Call 2584 7722 for details.
www.hongkong.grand.hyattrestaurants.com
Madame Fu Grand Café Chinois
Madame Fu is offering an elegant afternoon tea set, available to enjoy on its veranda or in its iconic pink room! Beautiful as always, this Instagrammable spot is perfect for winning over some new followers. Spots are limited, so confirm a place and make a reservation here.
When: Daily, 3pm to 5pm
Where: 3/F, Barrack Block, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong
How much: $250 per person; $450 for two. Add a glass of Moët & Chandon Champagne for $120 per person; $240 for two. Call 2114 2118 or email [email protected] for details.
Finds, The Luxe Manor
Hong Kong’s first Scandinavian restaurant has remained true to its goal of developing the traditional European high tea with a creative kick – trading out sandwiches for other savoury bites like Camembert cheese and black truffle choux. Its range of organic teas sound incredible, but if you’re feeling like something a little more alcoholic, you can choose one of its peach mimosas instead. Have we mentioned the unlimited DIY pancakes?
When: Daily, 3pm to 6pm
Where: 1/F, The Luxe Manor, 39 Kimberley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: Weekdays, $488 for two; Weekends and Public Holidays, $588 for two. Add two glasses of sparkling wine for $70. Call 2522 9318 or email [email protected] for details.
Lobby Lounge, The Intercontinental
The decadent afternoon tea set at The Intercontinental’s Lobby Lounge embraces classic patisseries. With the breath-taking panorama of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island, you’ll find yourself immersed in the relaxing ambience the place has to offer. With an impressive range of beverages to choose from, you can either stick to tea or coffee, or finish your tea off with a glass of bubbly.
When: Weekdays, 2:30pm to 6pm; weekends and public holidays, 1:30pm to 6pm
Where: Lobby Level, InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: $488 per person; $688 for two. Call 2313 2323 for details.
www.hongkong-ic.intercontinental.com
Café 103, Ritz-Carlton
Aptly located on the 103rd floor of the Ritz-Carlton, there’s no doubt that this afternoon tea exudes luxury. The signature afternoon tea set changes constantly at Café 103 – be sure to check its website for a look at what the current theme is!
When: Daily, 3:30pm to 5:30pm
Where: 103/F, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, No.1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: $428 per person; $698 for two. Call 2263 2270 or email [email protected] for details.
The Butterfly Room, Rosewood Hong Kong
Looking for the ultimate afternoon tea splurge? Located in the heart of Kowloon, The Butterfly Room is where culinary extravaganza meets modern innovation. If you’re looking for a typical high tea, you will absolutely love the classic afternoon tea set, which features refined savoury bites and warm scones followed by artful pastries and delicate confections. For a Christmas special, you may want to check out its Ultimate Festive Afternoon Tea before visiting K11 Musea for some last-minute Christmas shopping!
When: Daily, 2pm to 4:15pm and 4:30pm to 6:30pm
Where: Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: Classic Afternoon Tea Set: $720 for two, add a glass of Champagne for $260; Festive Afternoon Tea: $920 for two; Rosewood’s Ultimate Festive Afternoon Tea: $1,480 for two. Call 3891 8732 or email [email protected] for details.
High Chai at VEDA
The innovative High Chai is a must-try for our veggie-loving afternoon tea fans! The chef has curated an assortment of tasty vegetarian dishes, balancing health with indulgence. Don’t miss the mushroom tart or the homemade granola.
When: Daily, 3pm to 5:30pm
Where: 2 Arbuthnot Road, Central, Hong Kong
How much: $220 for one, $408 for two. Add $58 for a cold-pressed juice or $98 for a glass of sparkling wine. Call 3755 3067 for details.
The Drawing Room, St. Regis Hong Kong
The Drawing Room has reinterpreted the traditional afternoon tea. Choose from a selection of sweets and savouries from a dim sum-inspired trolley and enjoy the fine ambience at one of Hong Kong’s newest five-star hotels, the St. Regis Hong Kong.
When: Daily, 2:30pm to 5:30pm
Where: 1 Harbour Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
How much: $388 per person, $688 for two. Call 2138 6800 or email [email protected] for details.
Butterfly Blossom Afternoon Tea at Urban Park
Surely one of the prettiest afternoon tea sets out there. Enjoy prawn cocktail and tomato salsa shooters, followed by mini red velvet cupcakes, marshmallow pops, and more. Add a glass of sparkling wine onto your set for $50, and you’ve got yourselves a great afternoon!
When: Weekdays, 3pm to 5:30pm (Central & TST branch); weekends and public holidays, 3pm to 5:30pm (Central branch only)
Where: 4/F, 20-22, Granville Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong; 2/F, Nan Fung Place, 173 Des Voeux Road Central, Hong Kong
How much: $299 for two. Add a glass of sparkling wine for $50 per person.
T-Set at Nobu, The Intercontinental Hong Kong
Renowned for its innovative new-style Japanese cuisine, Nobu may not scream “traditional” afternoon tea, but its T-Set is hard to pass up; offering matcha honey roll, yuzu scone and caramel rum pudding! Add a glass of fizz to complete the experience.
When: Weekends, 2:30pm to 5pm
Where: 18 Salisbury Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: “Simply” T-Set: $348 for one, $548 for two (choice of green tea, coffee, matcha drinks); “Fizzy” T-Set: $528 for one, $888 for two (includes a glass of Louis Roederer Brut Premier). Call 2313 2323 for details.
www.hongkong-ic.intercontinental.com
Le Soleil, The Royal Garden Hotel
French-Vietnamese restaurant Le Soleil and its Vietnamese high tea set is one that we’re dying to sink our teeth into. Trade in the scones and clotted cream for a coconut roll with fresh mango, and relax with a cup of sweet Vietnamese coffee.
When: Daily, 3pm to 5:30pm
Where: 3/F, The Royal Garden, 69 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
How much: $408 for two. Call 2733 2033 or email [email protected] for details.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in September 2014 by Megan Hills, and was most recently updated on 17, December 2019 by Lydia Ching.
Featured image courtesy of Angello Lopez via Unsplash, image 1 courtesy of The Murray, image 2 courtesy of Tea WG, image 3 courtesy of Fortnum & Mason, image 4 courtesy of The Kowloon Hotel via Instagram, image 5 courtesy of The Verandah, image 6 courtesy of Old Bailey, image 7 courtesy of Finds, image 8 courtesy of Rosewood Hotel, image 9 courtesy of Urban Park via Instagram.
