Welcome to the High Tea Adventure

Oh, the delight of indulging in a delightful high tea! I’ve had my fair share of high tea experiences that often felt like a whimsical journey through flavour, laughter, and an abundance of pastries capable of making even the most seasoned sweet tooth swoon. From extravagant tea selections at opulent hotels to quaint little tea houses tucked away in shopping districts, each high tea experience offered a unique flavor—quite literally. One occasion, at a renowned venue, I misjudged the strength of Earl Grey tea, resulting in a caffeinated adventure that left me practically levitating by the end. So let’s examine these glorious escapades, shall we?»

Key Takeaways:

• For instance, enjoying high tea at SKAI Restaurant on the 70th floor offers a panoramic view of the city skyline. Just don’t lean too far over the edge while sipping your Earl Grey—no one wants to see you take a tumble for a better photo!
• Variety is an essential aspect of life. Places like Landing Point treat you to a delightful array of savoury pastries and sweet delights. I once had a mini quiche that was so good I almost uttered “I do” to it. To my dismay, my actual wedding did not feature mini quiches!
• Pairing the right drink is key: At Botanico, they serve an exquisite floral tea selection that makes you feel as refined as Princess Diana (well, minus the tiara). Just don’t mix it up and accidentally order an espresso. Trust me, the sugar rush will ruin your zen moment!
• Atmosphere matters: the vibe at 式 Singapore resembles stepping into a scene from ‘Alice in Wonderland’. The flowers, the décor, and the sense of whimsy are truly captivating! However, caution should be exercised to avoid succumbing to the allure of excessive finger sandwiches.
• The experience is enhanced by the presence of good company. Sharing high tea with friends is the ultimate treat. Just be prepared for the occasional debate over the best scone recipe. I once ended up in a heated argument with my mate about clotted cream versus jam. Spoiler: we both ended up with jam on our faces!

Sipping at SKAI: A Sky-High Experience

Perched high above the bustling streets of Singapore, SKAI Restaurant is a delightful escape for high tea enthusiasts. Upon entering, you are welcomed by breathtaking views that fill your heart with joy. Enjoying a meticulously curated afternoon tea set while soaking in the sky-high ambiance feels rather like a scene from a whimsical film, where cookie crumbs might just float away on the gentle breeze. Unsurprisingly, they don’t float away, but the experience remains enchanting!

High Tea: Why Life Is Better 50 Floors Up

There’s something undeniably enchanting about being 50 floors up. The panoramic views of the Singapore skyline are reminiscent of peering into a glittering jewel box, as the city unfolds below like a meticulously planned puzzle. As I sank into my plush seat, surrounded by the soft hum of conversation and laughter, I couldn’t help but think that perhaps life at altitude was a little more special. It’s the perfect place to sip tea while pretending to be a character in a novel—preferably one where someone has a butler.

The Menu Breakdown: Tiny Sandwiches, Big Flavours

Now, let’s try the tantalising menu that SKAI offers. SKAI showcases smooth, delicate sandwiches that are crafted with an impressive attention to detail. Each bite is an adventure, with flavours that burst in your mouth, making them worth the delicate juggling act of balancing teacups and cucumber slices.

These mini sandwiches are unlike the packaged ones you might find at a corner shop. At SKAI, the sandwiches are so small that they could easily pass for artwork. Which one is my personal favourite? The smoked salmon with cream cheese, which is so flavourful, almost made me question whether anyone would ever need a larger sandwich. They also serve delectable egg and cress and a mouth-watering chicken truffle number that left me pondering if I could or should eat a set of these every day. It’s like attending a flavour party—one where everything fits in a single bite! Skipping the sandwiches isn’t an option; I simply wouldn’t forgive myself. Well done, SKAI, for proving that good things really do come in small packages!

The Quirky Charm of TWG Tea

Stepping into TWG Tea feels like a delightful adventure within a whimsical dream. The ambience is reminiscent of an elegant Parisian tea salon but with a distinctly quirky twist—think tea tins stacked so high they might just topple over during an overly enthusiastic scone devouring session. With over 1,000 varieties of tea, it’s an exciting maze that I could happily get lost in, all while drifting into a tea-induced haze of blissful enjoyment. The careful attention to detail, from the ornate teapots to the impeccably dressed staff, adds to its uniquely endearing character.

Tea Time Tales: The Scone That Almost Escaped

During one of my delightful visits to TWG, I encountered a particularly defiant scone. Observing the exquisite array on the tiered stand, this cheeky little pastry appeared determined to escape! As I reached for it, it rolled off my plate and landed gently on the table below. I couldn’t help but laugh; bonds were formed in that moment, and, let me tell you, it was utterly scrumptious once I finally managed to wrangle it in! Such moments remind us that even the most refined high tea can hold unexpected hilarity.

Tea Varieties: A Journey Through Time and Taste

The variety of teas at TWG is breathtaking, spanning from classic Earl Grey to exotic blends that transport your senses to distant lands. As I meandered through the menu, I felt like a time traveller, sipping teas that represented their histories—each cup brimming with stories waiting to be told. You can truly taste the passion and craftsmanship in every sip, whether it’s the finely aged Darjeeling or a floral infusion evocative of a forgotten garden. It’s a delightful nod to tradition yet sprinkled liberally with modern flair.

At TWG, exploring the extensive selection of teas is like flipping through a history book, each variety narrating its own fascinating tale. I experienced a fragrant Jasmine Green tea that reminded me of a gentle spring breeze, while the bold Assam carried the earthy weight of its Indian origins. Every sip evoked a sense of global exploration, as the flavours showcased the artistry of tea production. Such a broad spectrum of tastes truly elevates the experience, allowing you to enjoy different cultures with each delightful brew.

High Tea with a Twist at The Writer’s Bar

At The Writer’s Bar, the art of high tea takes on a literary flair that’s utterly irresistible. Imagine a scene where elegant surroundings, adorned with a plethora of bookshelves, create a magical oasis for both bookworms and tea lovers. I found myself indulging in an afternoon of delightful nibbles while basking in the glow of literary inspiration. The heartfelt ambience and exquisite presentation create an unforgettable experience, demonstrating that high tea can truly be a captivating experience.

Literary Delights: Books and Bites

The menu at The Writer’s Bar is a delectable homage to famous literary works. Each bite transports you into the pages of a classic, with delicate pastries inspired by the likes of Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. I particularly adored the ‘Pride and Pastries’ selection, featuring dainty scones that would make even Elizabeth Bennet swoon. The pairing of treats and tales adds a delightful twist to your afternoon ritual.

Cocktail Pairings: Because Why Not?

Add a splash of vibrancy to your high tea experience with clever cocktail pairings that tantalise the taste buds. The Writer’s Bar offers a creative menu that crafts cocktails to enhance the flavours of your delectable treats. Sip on a ‘Mojito Mockingbird’ while nibbling on citrus-infused tarts, and find out just how much fun high tea can be when you embrace the spirit of the unexpected.

Imagine this: as I savoured my buttery scones, the ‘Mojito Mockingbird’ sparked real conversations about whether Atticus Finch would prefer a minty refreshment over tea. The cocktails didn’t just complement the delectable bites; they made me feel like a character in my novel, fully immersed in the experience. Each sip was a joyous blend, proving that high tea with a twist is not just a meal but an adventure ripe for storytelling. I may have left with a few giggles and a slight tipsy glow, but isn’t that part of the charm?

The Best Dodgy Moments: High Tea Fails

High tea can sometimes feel like a grand affair, but there are moments that render it hilariously dodgy. I recall the occasion when I inadvertently drank what I mistakenly believed to be Earl Grey while the light from my scones appeared suspiciously bright. One sip revealed it was just lukewarm water with a hint of disappointment! High tea is meant to be refined and posh, but occasionally the lowlights steal the show, offering a hearty laugh or two amidst the clinks of fine china.

The Time I Confused Clotted Cream with Creamed Corn

Picture this: I’m at a swanky high tea, surrounded by elegantly dressed ladies discussing their latest summer holidays. I reach for what I assume is clotted cream, ready to spread it on my scone, and instead, I plonk a big dollop of what I thought was lemony goodness, only to discover it was creamed corn. The look on everyone’s faces was priceless, and I couldn’t decide whether to laugh or cry as I tried to claw back my dignity with desperate tea-bag humour.

Spectacular Sandwich Mishaps: When Posh Meets Sloppy

High tea sandwiches may look simple, yet they can be the unwitting stars of comedic disaster. Consider the moment when my exquisite cucumber sandwich fell apart like a jigsaw puzzle as soon as I took a bite. The entire sandwich disintegrated, akin to a mishandled magic trick. I was left with pieces of posh bread adorned with a solitary slice of cucumber, while my friends, of course, couldn’t help but chuckle at the spectacle. It’s a delicate art making them, but clearly, it isn’t foolproof!

The true comedy lies in how seemingly sophisticated finger sandwiches can morph into a flurry of chaos. I’ve had one slip right out of my hand and into a rather unfortunate lap, leading to an awkward apology and a new friendship born out of sharing a delightful laugh. Who would have thought that a sandwich could act as a matchmaker? Every time we meet for high tea, friends still joke about the “cucumber incident”. Sandwich disasters may have their cringe-worthy moments, but they certainly do create some of the best stories and giggles over a cuppa!

The Etiquette Conundrum: To Stir or Not to Stir?

Picture this: I’m sitting at a charming little café, surrounded by all things tea and scones, and I’ve just been gifted a delicate teacup that’s practically begging to be stirred—yet, I can’t shake off the feeling that I’m being silently watched, judging my every move. Do I stir clockwise? Or perhaps I should stir anti-clockwise to add a cheeky twist? The dilemma is real! It’s a wonder anyone actually gets to sip their tea without it turning into a full-blown comedy sketch of clattering china and splattering Earl Grey.

A Guide to High Tea Manners (in case you’re feeling posh)

Let’s be honest, high tea can be intimidating, especially when you’re seated next to someone who looks like they’ve just walked off the cover of a posh magazine. Thankfully, laughing at our little missteps is part of the charm. I once used the wrong fork for my scone, but hey, it’s all about enjoying the moment—and if all fails, stuff your face with those pastries and you might just win over the rest!

Clumsy Cucumber Sandwiches: Embracing Imperfection

Ah, the cucumber sandwich—the focal point of any high tea gathering. However, it’s possible that my efforts to form the ideal triangle have resulted in a jumble of ungainly shapes more appropriate for elementary school art projects. Embracing the delightful chaos of cucumbers, cream cheese, and a dash of wit is a delightful alternative to uniformity. It’s all part of the experience!

Clumsy Cucumber Sandwiches: Embracing Imperfection

Allow me to transport you to a less grandiose afternoon when I chose to organise a high tea gathering for a select group of friends. Armed with a lovely recipe, I confidently sliced up the cucumbers, only to end up with a very uneven platter of sandwiches that bore more resemblance to abstract art than delicate nibbles. But rather than fret, we all guffawed, each bite a reminder that perfection is overrated. The sandwiches may have been clumsy, but the laughter was absolutely spot on, making it a delightful, unforgettable experience. So, if you find yourself in a similar pickle (pun intended), just embrace the wondrous wobbles of life and carry on munching!

Final Words

When I reminisce about my most memorable high tea experiences, I can confidently state that SKAI Restaurant in Singapore is truly exceptional. During one visit, I enjoyed their delightful lunch set, which featured two tiers of mouthwatering treats, while trying to maintain a gracious posture; however, I inevitably ended up with a scone disaster on my lap. But hey, what’s high tea without a bit of messy fun? The ambience and fantastic selection made it a splendid afternoon. So, gather your friends, find a tiered stand, and indulge—just avoid wearing your best trousers!

FAQ

Q: Where can you find the best high tea in Singapore?

A: Ah, the perennial question! Having indulged in various high tea experiences, I can assure you that SKAI Restaurant is a top contender. Perched on the 70th floor of the Swissôtel The Stamford, it offers a breathtaking view of the Singapore skyline. Their lunch sets come with a delightful spread of pastries, savoury treats, and scones that would make even the Queen herself blanch with envy. And don’t get me started on their tea selection – it’s enough to send a tea connoisseur into a tizzy! During my recent visit, I was transported to a scene from ‘The Great British Bake Off’, minus the tent and Paul Hollywood’s piercing gaze. Oh, and the cake stands are so picturesque; you might find yourself scrolling through Instagram trying to find the perfect filter, only to realise that the view needs none!

Q: Is high tea really worth the hype?

A: Absolutely! High tea is like entering into a whimsical world where calories don’t count (if only that were true). Picture this: you’re seated elegantly, surrounded by a myriad of delicious treats while sipping tea from delicate china. Putting on your best frock and imagining yourself at a royal gathering is the perfect excuse. I once attended a high tea event where they served a chocolate lava cake – one bite and I swear I was transported to Willy Wonka’s factory! Be careful though; sharing is not caring when it comes to such delights. If you don’t guard your plate, you might just end up with someone else’s scone after a heated debate over who should have the last bite! Better bring extra napkins to dab away the envy, I say.

Q: What should I wear to high tea?

A: Indeed, this is a crucial question! High tea attire can be anything from smart casual to utterly glamorous, depending on the venue. At SKAI, I opted for a lovely floral dress that made me feel like I had just stepped out of a Jane Austen novel. Although it’s not mandatory, we strongly recommend wearing a hat if you want to channel your Downton Abbey style. However, it’s important to note that if you choose a dress that’s too extravagant, it could potentially overshadow the pastries in terms of glamour. Once, I wore sequins and unintentionally splattered them all over the tablecloth, creating a dazzling trail that even the tea couldn’t erase. While it may be entertaining, exercise caution to avoid causing ‘glitter chaos’!

Q: Can I customise my high tea experience?

A: Most establishments are quite flexible, so feel free to ask! At SKAI, for instance, I was able to request gluten-free options for one of my friends who saw gluten as a personal enemy. They even went as far as creating a bespoke dessert just for her! Watching her devour the intricate pastries while I was still battling with my conscience over eating the chocolate gateau (which was, no doubt, gluttonous bliss) was an experience to behold. The smiles all around were infectious! It’s these little touches that can take an enjoyable experience to the next level, where laughter and light-hearted banter abound – just be prepared for the occasional food envy!

Q: Any tips for taking the perfect high tea photos?

A: Oh, where do I start? If you want the perfect Instagram photo, first try to sit near a window. Natural light plays a crucial role in enhancing the sparkle of your delectable pastries. Try experimenting with different angles. A low-angle shot of your towering cake stand can make it look like a sky-high masterpiece! I recall standing on my tiptoes at SKAI, contorting my body like an acrobat, just to capture the perfect sho’t. I may have alarmed fellow diners, but instead, they started joining in with their camera antics. It turned into a spontaneous photoshoot party! Just ensure that your friends don’t mind if the food goes cold while you chase that epic shot – you might want to explain that to the waiter when he gives you a raised eyebrow!