Enjoying an afternoon tea in Hong Kong is a practice adopted during the time of British colonial rule. Taking place in early afternoon from around 3pm, plush dining rooms and hotel lobbies become filled a genteel selection of fancy cakes, finger sandwiches and tea. It's tradition to use fine china and silverware, though these days the best afternoon teas in Hong Kong are fighting to outdo each other with sophisticated and impressive offerings.
Along with the English classics, it's now common to find macaroons, premium sushi, and even champagne on the menu. This is a good example of how all cultures find their way to Hong Kong and are assimilated and reused. It’s pretty much a rite of passage to enjoy afternoon tea when in Hong Kong and we have collected some of the best below – just be sure to book ahead (particularly on weekends and national holidays).
- 1
The Peninsula Hong Kong
- Food
Dress in your finest and take a seat in The Peninsula Hong Kong's opulent lobby for a feeling akin to sitting in a period drama. At about HK$718 for 2 people, it’s on the pricey side but the Tiffany china cups, Sheffield silverware, live string quartet, and fancy treats by Chef François Delaire make it worth the cost.
All the classics are served at this afternoon tea, including smoked salmon, cucumber sandwiches, scones (with genuine Devon clotted cream) and fancy cakes. Smart casual dress code applies. The Peninsula Afternoon Tea is available every day from 2pm to 6pm.
Location: G/F, The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Phone: +852 2696 6772
Map - 2
Café 103 at The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong
- Food
Café 103 at The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong attracts tea and cake lovers with its signature afternoon tea, which takes place on the 103rd level of the International Commerce Centre (ICC).
You'll be treated to unique sweet and savoury treats by executive pastry chef Richard Long. It costs around HK$398 per set (additional HK$510 for a glass of Dom Perignon 2009 Champagne). The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong is directly connected to Elements Shopping Mall, so you can combine a stop at Café 103 afternoon tea with shopping.
Location: 103/F The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong, International Commerce Centre (ICC), 1 Austin Rd W, West Kowloon, Hong Kong
Open: Daily from 3.30pm to 5.30pm
Phone: +856 2263 2270
Map - 3
Woobar at W Hong Kong
- Food
Woobar's Afternoon Tea Set at W Hong Kong is a modern interpretation of the afternoon tea experience in Hong Kong. The focus here is on sweet treats in all shapes and sizes by Culinary Chef Robert Nilsson, with an option of sparkling wine.
If you would rather ditch the tradition and go with something modern, Woobar's afternoon tea will not disappoint. It costs around HK$488 for 2 people and HK$638 if you want to enjoy your afternoon tea with Chandon sparkling wine.
Location: W Hong Kong, 1 Austin Road, West Kowloon Station, Hong Kong
Phone: +852 3717 2889
Map - 4
Palm Court at The Langham Hong Kong
- Food
The Langham Hong Kong is widely considered as the original commercial afternoon tea experience in the city, so authenticity is one of its main draws. Harbour views from the lobby lounge present a beautiful backdrop for those looking to treat themselves to a British-style afternoon tea in Hong Kong.
The experience takes place at Palm Court, and uses chinaware from Wedgewood to serve mango mille-feuille, earl grey-infused Yorkshire tea loaf, and Wedgwood specialty teas.
Location: The Langham Hong Kong, 8 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Open: Monday–Friday from 3pm to 5.30pm, Saturday–Sunday from 2.15pm to 4.15pm and from 4.30pm to 6.30pm
Phone: +852 2132 7898
Map
Start planning your trip
Where to stay in Hong Kong SAR
ibis Hong Kong Central And Sheung Wan
The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong
Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong
Royal Plaza Hotel
Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour Hong Kong
New World Millennium Hong Kong Hotel
The Harbourview - Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong
Holiday Inn Golden Mile, an IHG Hotel
Eaton HK
