During my first visit to Hong Kong nine years ago, I walked longingly past the Peninsula Hotel dreaming of the day when I’d have the chance to sit in the lobby and sip on a cup of tea and eat delicate little sandwiches and pastries. This visit to Hong Kong, my dream came true!
Unbeknownst to us (lack of research on our part) for the months of August and September 2019 Hello Kitty is taking over Tea at the Peninsula!
Afternoon Tea is served in The Lobby of the hotel, providing a perfect location to people watch. It is an elegant atmosphere and the servers were extremely attentive.
There was a nice selection of teas to choose from, including three “Peninsula Teas”. I opted for the Peninsula Blend which was a blend of Peninsula Breakfast Tea, Assam, and Darjeeling Tea. It had less punch than a traditional breakfast tea, but still paired nicely with milk. A good choice for the afternoon.
Whether or not you are a Hello Kitty fan, you’ve got to hand it to the patisserie chefs at the Peninsula. The food is very much on theme (pink and precious) and was delicious.
Of the savory snacks, my favorite was the cucumber sandwich on tomato bread, a nice twist on a classic. And the tomato bread lent the signature pink hue required to make it on the plate.
As much as I love sweets, I always struggle to finish the patisserie plate during afternoon tea. SO. MUCH. SUGAR. This was no exception. Of the offerings here, my favorite was the English Trifle Cake. But, undoubtedly the most photogenic was the Chocolate Rose Tea Sandwich Cookie.
Chocolate Rose Tea Sandwich Cookies
The scones were also delicious. Buttery, crumbly, everything a scone should be. Add the clotted cream and some jam and you’ve got yourself a treat.
What did I think of this bucket list afternoon tea? I enjoyed it. Honestly, I probably would have enjoyed it more had it not been Hello Kitty themed, but the food quality, impeccable service, and atmosphere was not compromised by the presence of a cute cat. I just prefer my tea with a bit more grown-up elegance. And a little less pink.
Good to Know:
Closest MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui
Hours: Afternoon Tea is served daily from 14:00-18:00
Cost: HK$438 for one person; HK$798 for two people
Dress Code: Smart Casual (no athletic wear)
Reservations: No (there is a queue upon arrival)
Kid Friendly: Yes–Hello Kitty is only 5 years old herself ;). We saw several children enjoying tea with their families.
Insider Info: For the duration of the Hello Kitty Tea, every tea-goer receives a free themed sticker collection.
