HAVING GIRLS HIGH TEA AT CAFE PARLOUR

Indulge in the epitome of relaxation and elegance with Afternoon Tea, a cherished tradition and one of my personal favorite weekend pastimes. After a busy week of chasing life’s goals, treating yourself to a luxurious afternoon tea experience is the perfect reward. Whether you’ve spent the morning shopping, lounging on the beach, or planning your next island getaway, there’s nothing quite like catching up with friends over delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and a steaming pot of tea served in fine china sets. As you bask in the ambiance of vintage charm, engage in quality conversation and create lasting memories with your nearest and dearest.

The origins of Afternoon Tea can be traced back to the 19th century, credited to the late Queen Victoria’s lifelong friend, Anna Maria Russell, the 7th Duchess of Bedford. Faced with the long wait between lunch and the late evening supper, the Duchess introduced the concept of Afternoon Tea as a delightful mid-meal reprieve, providing an opportunity to indulge in delectable treats and socialize with friends.

For those seeking an exceptional Afternoon Tea experience in the Hong Kong Kowloon area, look no further than The Cafe Parlour at House 1881. Nestled within the elegant Victorian-inspired architecture of House 1881, The Cafe Parlour offers a refined and exquisite affair from 14:30 to 17:30. Immerse yourself in a world of culinary delights as you savor freshly brewed coffee and indulge in mouth-watering Three-Tiered Tea Sets, all amidst the timeless elegance of fine china and ornate decor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply unwinding with loved ones, Afternoon Tea at The Cafe Parlour promises an unforgettable experience that combines indulgence, sophistication, and timeless charm.

ABOUT THE LOCATION

Experience the epitome of elegance and history at Cafe Parlour, nestled within the main building of House 1881 in Hong Kong. Steeped in rich heritage, Hong Kong’s colonial past has left an indelible mark on its culture, including the cherished tradition of Afternoon Tea. As you step into Cafe Parlour, you’ll be transported back in time to the Victorian era, with its ornate architecture and timeless ambiance setting the stage for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Renowned for its signature Afternoon Tea, Cafe Parlour invites guests to indulge in a feast for the senses. From homemade cakes and pastries that tantalize the taste buds to mouth-watering lobster bisque and classic fish and chips, every dish is crafted with care and precision. Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine cuisine or simply seeking a moment of respite amid bustling city life, Cafe Parlour offers an unparalleled dining experience that combines culinary excellence with historical charm.

But Cafe Parlour is more than just a restaurant; it’s a journey through time. Housed within the Former Marine Police Headquarters, a designated monument under the Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance, House 1881 stands as a testament to Hong Kong’s storied past. From its inception in 1881 to its meticulous restoration in 1996, the building has borne witness to a wealth of historical events, including the Japanese Occupation in the mid-1940s.

Afternoon Tea at Cafe Parlour isn’t just a meal; it’s a social event, a cherished tradition shared among friends. As my girlfriends and I gather for our weekly Afternoon Tea, we not only savor delicious treats and fragrant teas but also deepen our bonds and cultivate our emotional intelligence. According to recent research, sharing social experiences like Afternoon Tea can enhance emotional intelligence, fostering empathy, and understanding among friends. So why not join us for an afternoon of indulgence, history, and camaraderie at Cafe Parlour? It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

At Cafe Parlour, the Afternoon Tea experience is truly a celebration of the seasons. Throughout the year, guests are treated to a rotating selection of four distinct Afternoon Tea themes, each meticulously curated to reflect the essence of the current season. And for special occasions and festivities, bespoke seasonal teas are crafted, ensuring that every visit is a unique and memorable experience.

During my recent visit with @vasimav, we had the pleasure of indulging in a Summer-themed Afternoon Tea set. From the moment the tiered tray arrived at our table, we were greeted with an array of vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas that perfectly captured the essence of the season. Each bite was a delightful journey through the flavors of summer, with a special emphasis on seasonal fruits and ingredients.

The Summer-themed Afternoon Tea set was a symphony of flavors, featuring a delightful mix of sweet and savory treats. Fresh raspberries added a burst of sweetness to delicate pastries, while rich chocolate creations satisfied our cravings for indulgence. We were pleasantly surprised by the inclusion of succulent salmon sandwiches, adding a touch of sophistication to the experience. And let’s not forget the unexpected touch of luxury—a pinch of gold delicately adorning our treats, elevating the experience to new heights of decadence.

As we savored each bite and sipped on fragrant teas, we couldn’t help but appreciate the attention to detail and creativity that went into crafting this seasonal Afternoon Tea set. From the ambiance of Cafe Parlour’s elegant surroundings to the exquisite flavors of each delicacy, every moment was a testament to the artistry and passion of the culinary team.

Whether you’re a seasoned Afternoon Tea aficionado or embarking on your first tea adventure, a visit to Cafe Parlour promises an unforgettable journey through the flavors and traditions of the season. So why not treat yourself to a taste of summer—or whichever season you happen to find yourself in—at Cafe Parlour? It’s an experience that’s sure to leave you craving more.

In the latest season, our Afternoon Tea experience at Cafe Parlour was elevated to new heights with the addition of two pots of special tea carefully chosen to complement the flavors of the season. And for those looking to add a touch of luxury to their tea indulgence, the option to include coffee or even champagne was available, making the experience all the more delightful.

What truly sets Cafe Parlour apart is its commitment to seasonal excellence. With each new season comes a revamped Seasonal Tea Set, featuring a delightful array of treats inspired by the freshest ingredients and flavors of the moment. Take, for example, the “Grilled Watermelon with Parma Ham & Walnut” featured in our set. The innovative chefs at Cafe Parlour took this classic combination and elevated it to new heights, using different melons or cantaloupes alongside the Parma Ham to create a refreshing and unforgettable flavor profile. The addition of grilled watermelon added a certain freshness to the plate, perfectly complementing the savory notes of the ham and the richness of the walnut.

With the innovative creativity of the culinary team at Cafe Parlour, each Seasonal Tea Set promises a unique and unforgettable experience. From the delicate balance of flavors to the exquisite presentation, every detail is meticulously crafted to provide guests with a taste of the season like no other. Whether you’re a regular visitor or embarking on your first tea adventure, Cafe Parlour is a place not to be missed each season. So why not treat yourself to a journey through the seasons at Cafe Parlour and experience the magic of seasonal indulgence firsthand? It’s an experience that’s sure to leave you craving more with each visit.

About eTEAquettes

For those new to the Afternoon Tea experience, here are some essential eTEAquettes tips to ensure you make the most of your tea session:

Dress Code: While there’s no strict dress code for Afternoon Tea, it’s always a good idea to dress smart-casual, unless otherwise specified by the establishment. Nowadays, many millennials enjoy capturing Instagram-worthy photos, so Afternoon Tea can be the perfect excuse to dress up a little and indulge in some stylish attire.

Scone Etiquette: One of the highlights of Afternoon Tea is undoubtedly the scones. Contrary to popular belief, there’s no need to be overly formal when enjoying your scones. Feel free to use your hands to break apart a scone, spread on some cream and jam, and savor every delicious bite of Cafe Parlour’s homemade scones.

Biscuit Dunking: While it may be tempting to dunk a biscuit into your tea, it’s best to refrain from doing so, especially when dining at a fine establishment like Cafe Parlour. Afternoon Tea is a social event meant to be enjoyed with elegance and grace. While dunking biscuits may be acceptable in more casual settings, it’s generally considered impolite in a formal tea setting. Save the dunking for private tea sessions at home with family and friends.

When it comes to selecting the perfect tea for your Afternoon Tea experience, the options can seem endless. With a plethora of flavors and varieties to choose from, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. While you may be tempted to try a variety of teas in a single sitting, it’s often best to opt for one flavor that complements your chosen sweets and savories.

Choosing the right tea can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not well-versed in the world of tea. In such cases, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your server. They are well-trained and knowledgeable about the teas on offer and can recommend one that suits your preferences and pairs well with your selected treats. After all, Afternoon Tea is as much a social event as it is a culinary experience, so don’t be afraid to ask for assistance.

When it comes to stirring your tea, it’s important to do so with finesse and grace. Follow these simple steps: first, place your spoon at the 6 o’clock position of your cup; second, gently stir the spoon towards the 12 o’clock position of the cup. Repeat these steps as desired, but be careful not to overdo it. And whatever you do, avoid “clinking” the sides of the cup while stirring, as it can disrupt the serene and quiet atmosphere of Afternoon Tea. So sit back, relax, and enjoy your tea with the utmost elegance and refinement.

 

It’s a common misconception that drinking tea with your pinkie extended is the epitome of elegance and refinement. Some even believe it helps to balance the cup, but in reality, it’s simply a silly faux pas.

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not recommended to extend your pinkie while enjoying your tea. It’s considered more proper to keep your pinkie down while sipping your tea, maintaining a relaxed and comfortable grip on the cup.

Amidst all the etiquette and formalities of Afternoon Tea, it’s important not to lose sight of the most important aspect: having fun! After all, Afternoon Tea is a social occasion meant to be enjoyed with friends and loved ones. So don’t stress yourself out trying to remember all the rules and regulations. Instead, focus on creating lasting memories, indulging in delicious treats, and savoring every sip of your favorite tea.

So go ahead, let your hair down, and enjoy a wonderful cup of tea with your girls. After all, life’s too short to worry about pinkies!