If you thought afternoon tea needed a refresh, Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, and fashion icon Vivienne Tam are here to do just that – one chic bite at a time. The legendary hotel has just relaunched its Clipper Lounge, adding even more elegance to its timeless charm, and to celebrate, they’ve teamed up with Vivienne Tam for a next-level experience: the ‘Romancing the Moon’ Afternoon Tea. And let’s just say, this is afternoon tea reimagined in the most fashionable way possible.
Inspired by the autumn romance of the Mid-Autumn moon and Vivienne Tam’s signature China Chic aesthetic, this exclusive tea experience combines elegance, tradition, and couture in every bite. Crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Paul Chan, the tea set starts strong with a Sesame & Walnut Macaron, adorned with a red and gold dragon, setting the tone for the fusion of flavour and fashion to come. Next, jasmine-infused Mahjong Chocolate Cookies bring playful charm, a nod to unity and tradition. As you move through the tiers, indulgence reaches new heights with a Double Chocolate Bavarois, decorated with Tam’s iconic dragon motif. Paired perfectly with a buttery Baked Egg Tart, this tier celebrates sweetness and symbolism. To finish, the flavours of Mid-Autumn take centre stage. The Roselle & Cassia Vanilla Tart offers a tangy-sweet balance, while the Green Tea & Red Bean Mooncake brings a modern twist to a traditional favourite. With every bite, ‘Romancing the Moon’ merges fashion, food, and festivity in a way that feels both timeless and cutting-edge. It’s more than an afternoon tea – it’s a celebration of culture, style, and togetherness.
Here’s where the luxury really kicks in. Along with enjoying those exquisite treats, you’ll also leave with a limited-edition cosmetic pouch designed by Vivienne Tam herself. Inside, you’ll find some seriously luxe goodies, including a HKD$200 voucher for a Vivienne Tam fashion splurge, a sample of Noble Panacea’s Chronobiology Sleep Mask to give your skin the same pampering as your palate, and a 10% discount card for more beauty treasures at JOYCE Beauty.
This fashion-forward afternoon tea is available until 30 September, and it’s priced at HKD$1,288 for two. Is it a splurge? Absolutely. But let’s be honest, how often do you get to eat desserts inspired by haute couture while bagging a chic cosmetic pouch?
Clipper Lounge, M/F, Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, 5 Connaught Road Central, Central, Hong Kong, 2825 4007, www.mandarinoriental.com
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