Experience Hong Kong Style Afternoon & Classic High Tea | The V Group

It may come as a surprise to those who are accustomed to the pace of the city, but Hong Kong has kept up with a habit brought about by the British – the art of the afternoon tea or high tea. Even today, many of Hong Kong’s establishments serving afternoon tea follow British tradition – tea and scones with clotted cream and jam. And to have a true taste of Hong Kong, the local afternoon tea is a worthy contender. In this article, we include our favorite afternoon tea – Hong Kong style and Western style.

The Lobby at The Peninsula

With its colonial architecture and incredible history, high tea in the historic Peninsula Hong Kong feels appropriate. Accordingly, the food selection is classically British, with freshly-baked scones and Devonshire clotted cream, finger sandwiches and assorted savory pastries. The service and the environment – opulent ceilings and gilded columns – are part of the allure but do bear in mind that the atmosphere runs a little formal. If you are looking for a more casual setting that still offers the full British afternoon tea experience, look no further than our next recommendation.

G/f, The Peninsula, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, +852 2696 6772

The Clipper Lounge

Located in Central, The Clipper Lounge is said to be located at ‘the crossroads of Hong Kong’. Its East Meets West Brunch consists of high tea influenced by local and British flavors, while its location next to an overhead bridge connecting key Central office buildings ensure that people-watching is part of the experience. The atmosphere is distinctly laidback, retaining the upscale ambience while somehow staying casual. Be sure to try the Rose Longan Cake – a sumptuous highlight.

Cafe 103

Putting the “high” in high tea, Cafè 103 is the located in the tallest building in Hong Kong. Enjoy stunning views of the Hong Kong Island in the late afternoon, but regular exhibitions ensure that the view is not the only attraction. This year, Cafè 103 collaborates with the brand Moschino to create a fashion themed afternoon tea. Highlights of this menu include lemon mascarpone cheese Swiss roll crossing the boundaries Moschino-style, as well as the classic Gianduja lollipops and scones served with clotted cream and jam.

Address: The ICC building is located 5 minutes away from The Lodge and you can take a shorter route by passing through Elements mall.

103/f, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Hong Kong, +852 2263 2270

Lan Fong Yuen

There is no better place to experience the local twist to the Hong Kong afternoon tea than the original pioneer – Lan Fong Yuen. Here, enjoy a mix of delicacies, including French Toast – coated generously with egg batter and deep fried to ensure a crispy exterior and a soft interior. HK style milk tea, also known as “silk stocking tea” – is mixed with five different tea leaves from New Zealand and mixed according to their golden formula. We can attest – the smooth and creamy texture will leave you wanting more. Pair it with the Pork Chop Bun – which comes with a slice of juicy pork chop and tomato slices.

A 5 minutes stroll from Castle One by V – highly recommended!

2 Gage Street, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2544 3895

Australia Dairy Company

Don’t let the name fool you – this institution is as local as it gets. Probably the most reasonably priced option of the recommended, this is the best places to enjoy authentic Hong Kong style afternoon tea, with their “steamed milk pudding”, egg pudding, and scrambled egg sandwiches being strong highlights. As seating is always limited, the line always stretches from the doorway to the side of the restaurant. For this reason, you may be asked to share seats with your fellow hungry patrons, but the upside is that servers will have an order placed and delivered to you within a couple of minutes. It truly is afternoon tea “Fast and Furious” style – but the food and experience are absolutely not to be missed.

Just 5 mins away from The Lodge

G/F, 47-49 Parkes Street, Jordan, +852 2730 1356

These delectable afternoon tea options are ideal to experience both the local or upscale side of Hong Kong. For more options, simply check with the hotel manager at V.