For me, "I'll put the kettle on," is said with most of life's experiences. A cup of tea is made, and stories of joy, sorrow and everything in between are told. It's one of life's rituals, and over the years I have developed a real love for tea and more importantly, the longstanding tradition that goes with it. The allure of afternoon tea, like its presentation is multi-layered: you can relax over a brewing pot of tea, immerse in great conversation and graze your way through platters of meticulously prepared petit fours.
The English tradition of afternoon tea has immense popularity in Shanghai and can be experienced in hotels and cafes throughout the city. With that in mind, here is our list of where to enjoy the best afternoon teas around town. So, take some time out to treat yourself, connect with friends and enjoy!
D.O.C. Gastronomia Italiana
Image via The Camel Hospitality Group
Image via The Camel Hospitality Group
You can count on D.O.C. to deliver a friendly, neighborhood-style afternoon tea. Their three-tier set consists of the best Italian and British influences: zesty rum baba, creamy tiramisu, and fruity scones, plus brioche bruschetta and smoked salmon ciabatta. Pair these treats with your choice of coffee, tea, mimosa or Prosecco. What’s more, the kid’s zone has a plethora of toys and gadgets to keep the smaller ones entertained.
RMB188 per person. Daily 2.30-5.30pm. See listing for D.O.C Gastronomia Italiana
Green & Safe
Image via Green & Safe
Image via Green & Safe
A custodian of bio-friendly dining, Green & Safe offers healthy and delicious afternoon tea bites. Our favorites include scones served with crème fraiche and berry compote, sandwiches with prosciutto and avocado, and old-fashioned carrot cake. To make the most of the experience, book a window seat with friends during a sunny afternoon and sip on a freshly brewed pot of Pu'er tea.
RMB158 per set. Serves two. Weekdays 2.30-5.30pm. See listings for Green & Safe
Tea Room at Hyatt on the Bund
Image via Hyatt on the Bund
Image via Hyatt on the Bund
When in Shanghai, afternoon tea with a Chinese spin is a fun way to cross the cultural divide. Tea Room has prepared a dazzling selection of dim sum bites, including lotus puff with lotus seed paste, red date rice cake with nuts as well as the popular fried shrimp dumplings. On weekends, a live noodle station serves unlimited Shanghainese home-style noodles for all to enjoy. Pair your culinary exploration with free-flow loose-leaf Chinese tea or a coffee.
RMB228 per set. Serves two. Daily 2-6pm; noodles station available Sat & Sun, 2.30-6pm. All prices subject to 15 percent surcharge. See listing for Tea Room at Hyatt on the Bund
Jean–Georges at Three on the Bund
Image via Three on the Bund
Image via Three on the Bund
If you’re looking for a luxurious afternoon tea experience, then book Jean-Georges at Three on the Bund. Boasting panoramic views of The Bund and Lujiazui skyline, this chic, French restaurant has an indulgent afternoon tea to match its premium location. The multi-tiered set features the restaurant’s signature egg caviar, foie gras terrine with dried sour cherries and candied pistachio, along with a selection of sweets inspired by jewelery designer ARTE.
RMB588 per set. Serves two. Daily 2-5pm. See listing for Jean–Georges at Three on the Bund
The Lobby Lounge at JW Marriott Tomorrow Square
Image via JW Marriott Tomorrow Square
Image via JW Marriott Tomorrow Square
Overlooking People’s Square from the hotel’s 38th floor lobby, JW Marriott’s afternoon tea allows you to take a moment away from the hustle and bustle outside. Enjoy brioche buns served with foie gras and cherry compote, mango passion fruit éclair, classic mille-feuille and a selection of pastries. Pair these with tea, coffee or Taittinger Champagne by the glass (RMB88).
RMB358 per set. Serves two. Daily 2.30-5.30pm. All prices subject to 15 percent service charge. See listing for The Lobby Lounge at JW Marriott Tomorrow Square
Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire at Capella, Jian Ye Li
Image via Capella Shanghai
Image via Capella Shanghai
Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire is, without a doubt, the go-to French restaurant in Shanghai. Their afternoon tea is served in classic French style, featuring a selection of tartlets, choux pastries and scones. Not only does the selection meet Michelin standards, the environment here is quaint and nostalgic. Nestle into one of Capella’s plant-filled balconies, savor their delicious bites and watch the traffic pass by.
RMB600 per set. Serves two. Mon-Sat, 2.30-4.30pm. All prices subject to 10 percent surcharge. See listing for Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire at Capella, Jian Ye Li
The PuLi
Image via The PuLi
Image via The PuLi
With a wide selection of treats and zen atmosphere, it's hard to beat The PuLi for a restorative afternoon tea experience. Outdoor sofas perched on the edge of tranquil water feature and bamboo flanked walls are here to soothe the soul. The menu doesn't shy away from excellence either. Enjoy mouth-watering treats such as chicken and aioli pretzel, truffle quiche, opera cake and fennel seed financier with premium oolong tea or herbal infusion.
RMB300 per set. Daily 2.30-5.30pm. All prices subject to 10 percent surcharge and applicable VAT. See listing for The PuLi
TWG Tea Salon
Image via TWG Tea
Image via TWG Tea
When you're in need of resting your feet after wandering inside one of Shanghai's luxury shopping malls, consider stopping by the TWG Tea Salon for a sip of freshly brewed goodness and some delectable desserts. With a history that traces back to 1837 Singapore when the city was a tea trading port, TWG has since established itself as one of the world's premier tea purveyors. Cool off over refreshing iced tea, plus a range of tea-infused desserts including shortbread, cheesecakes and macarons to snack on.
RMB150 per person. Daily 10am-10pm. See listings for TWG Tea Salon
Ruiku at Wanda Reign on the Bund
Image via Wanda Reign on the Bund
Image via Wanda Reign on the Bund
If grandeur is what you're after, head up to Ruiku at Wanda Reign on the Bund. Apart from the expansive view of the Bund and Lujiazui skyline, the restaurant serves a menu of tea-inspired treats. Think Earl Grey tea and pistachio gateau, hazelnut oolong tea and mango mousse. So take your time, sit back and relish the sweeping landscape of this magical city.
RMB218 per set. Daily 2-5.30pm. See listing for Ruiku, Wanda Reign on the Bund
[Cover image via Hyatt on the Bund]
