August 2, 2007
The Tea Spot
Although China’s love affair with tea goes back to ancient times, Hong Kong’s modern versions of the teahouse are gorgeous, atmospheric and stylish spots, perfect for an afternoon with friends or an evening pick me up. Join us for a nice steamy cuppa cha…
New Infusion
Green T. House (#208, The Arcade, 100 Cyberport Road, Pokfulam, 2989 6036, www.green-t-house.com)
You’ve arrived at the teahouse of the future. Spacious and ultra-modern with stunning white décor, this unique outpost of the Beijing original infuses many of its signature “New China Cuisine” dishes with flavour-rich tea. Dig into Green T. Coated Lamb Chops, Yunnan Black T. Rice or Green T. Fennel dumplings followed by delicious tea flavoured custards and desserts. Encompassing a restaurant, bar, art gallery, and performance space, this dining destination has put Cyberport on the map for art aficionados, tea lovers and foodies alike—nailing this concept to a T!
Traditional Brew
China Tee Club (1/F Pedder Building, 12 Pedder Street, Central, 2521 0233, www.chinateeclub.com)
In an unassuming building above Shanghai Tang, lies this colonial-style teahouse, complete with café tables, ceiling fans and shuttered windows with views of the bustling streets below. Menu items include hearty western-style sandwiches, served with French fries, traditional dim sum, and a range of indulgent sweet treats such as Belgian waffles and apple tarts. Featuring changing Chinese art exhibits and oozing with old world charm, there’s no better place to rest your bones (and your bags!) during a day of power shopping in Central.
Steamy Encounter
Shu Zhai (G/F, 80 Stanley Main Street, Stanley, 2813 0123)
Book it into Stanley for a decadent meal at Shu Zhai (an ancient Chinese word for library). This old-style Chinese teahouse including a tree-lined courtyard and miniature bookshop is choc full of atmosphere and serves up modern versions of traditional fishing village fare. A feast of delectable dim sum and seafood favourites such as Fried Crab with Black Beans & Golden Garlic, along with and pot after pot of delicate Chinese flower tea promises to transport the mind, the eye and the palate. Parting gifts, including satchels of Rosewood Tea and bookmarks inscribed with inspirational messages, make this library a quick study.
Smokin’ Pot
Ming Cha (7 Star Street, Wan Chai, 2520 2116, www.mingcha.com.hk)
With some of the most palate-pleasing, well-made teas around, Ming Cha is taking high-end tea drinking to the masses. Now you can sip their unique infusions such as Honey Pearl Pekoe, Mandarin Orchid and Red Plum in the beautiful 2nd floor teahouse above their Star Street shop. Brew the teas yourself using a special pot that heats up right at your table, and enjoy your cuppa along with complimentary snacks like organic cherries and salted cashews. Once finished, you can heat things up at home with one of their signature blends, available for purchase. And you thought you were smokin’ before…
Wherever you choose to indulge, we hope it hits the spot!
