Taking afternoon tea at the Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong is one of the few traditions left in the city from its colonial period. Once the hottest ticket in town for governors, generals, and visiting royalty, the Peninsula Hotel has been serving up tea since 1928. Moreover, while the British may have left, the tradition remains undisturbed.

History of Afternoon Tea at the Peninsula

While you can enjoy tea at any of the top five afternoon tea spots in Hong Kong, the adherence to tradition and attention to detail at the Peninsula means it still stands above its rivals. It’s also all about the setting. The classic colonial curves of the Peninsula Hotel include marble floors, gilded columns, and exquisite paintings. Consequently, it’s an impeccably dressed backdrop to taking tea. Similarly, while Hong Kong is also home to many five-star hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants, the Peninsula remains a benchmark of luxury.

Tea and Pastry Menu at the Peninsula

Tea at the Peninsula feels straight out of Alice in Wonderland. The tea itself is Earl Grey, although you can also select less fragrant breakfast tea. This comes served with a classical selection of finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones on a tiered silver platter. The presentation will undoubtedly have you reaching for your camera.

Among the sandwiches, you’ll find cheese, cucumber, and other straightforward classics served on crustless white bread. However, it’s the scones that take center stage. Stuffed with raisins, they are served with jam and Devonshire clotted cream—the latter being a rich cream traditionally served in the UK but rarely found on Hong Kong tea menus. It’s truly an indulgent delight. In essence, it’s a quintessential tea set that transports you to a cricket match in the English countryside.

What to Expect at the Peninsula Tea Service

Afternoon tea is a refined affair, so definitely plan to look polished and classy. Therefore, do dress up and expect butlers and waiters to treat you like true royalty. Besides bow-tied waiters maneuvering around the room, you’ll also enjoy a string quartet performing the greatest hits of Handel and Schoenberg. The Lobby, where the tea is served, still enforces a dress code, although it has become less stringent. You won’t gain entry if you’re wearing flip flops, and men are required to wear long sleeves.

Afternoon tea is offered at the Peninsula daily from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Lobby does not accept reservations; thus, on weekends, you may need to queue for a seat. It is also noteworthy that this luxurious experience doesn’t come cheap. The price is HK $358 for one person and HK $628 for two.