Traditionally a British pastime, afternoon tea consisted of a cup of tea, bread and butter and a piece of cake. Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, started the tradition in 1840 as she was feeling a little hungry in the late afternoon. Nowadays afternoon tea has evolved into a more formal occasion that can consist of everything from cakes to croissants and macaroons to meringues.
When you’re feeling a little peckish or craving a little something sweet after lunch, then afternoon tea is a perfect break to relax and sip something warm while munching on something delicious. Hong Kong has some luxurious teas in the hotels but you can enjoy your afternoon break without such a hefty price tag with these more unknown café’s.
Le Pain Quotidien
Address: G 40 – 41, Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queen’s Rd E, Wan Chai
Price range: $50- $80
A very traditional afternoon tea experience with all organic and homemade delights including scones, croissants, tarts and many more. Le Pain Quotidien transports you to the streets of Paris with their outdoor terrace and gentle music. They have a large selection of both hot and iced organic teas including the traditional English breakfast and the more unique Moroccan mint. Each pot serves around four cups and you can even get free refills of hot water. This makes it perfect for sharing or if you’re in need something refreshing in the late afternoon. The café has a bakery at the entrance where you can see all their products and either buy them to eat in or take away to save for later.
Munchies
Address: 4 Shin Hing St, Central
Price range: $30 – $50
For a more modern day, on the go afternoon tea Munchies is the place to go. Specialising in luxury doughnuts in flavours such as maple walnut and smores, their light and fluffy texture make it easy to eat and even consider reaching for a second, which is unlike many donuts in Hong Kong that can be a little more filling. The baked goods are freshly made in store daily and they also serve other treats including ice cream and cookies, which they have gluten free options for so everyone can enjoy them. As well as walking into the store to order, they also offer special package deals for parties or meetings, which cater to 10 or more people and edible arrangements in the form of a doughnut tower or mini doughnut stands.
Kafeien Coffee & Kitchen
Address: Camel Paint Building Block 3, Flat S, 5/F, 60 Hoi Yuen Rd, Hong Kong
Price range: $168 for two
Although it’s a little challenging to get to, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by Kafeien Coffee & Kitchen’s afternoon tea special. They have one of the best value for money tea’s I’ve ever tried at only $168 for two people, which includes two teas or coffee’s of your choice and the set that’s served beautifully on a traditional cake stand, very similar to what you’d see in the hotels. They include a selection of savory treats such as sandwiches and salad, as well as sweet delights including cheesecake and biscuit mouse, making this tea break a very indulgent experience. If you can’t manage it all in one sitting, you can simply ask for a box and finish the rest of at home or on the go.
Blogger, writer and recent graduate from journalism, Nicole loves to travel the world, spend time with her friends and enjoy the fine things in life.
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