The revolution of cocktail menus in Hong Kong tea restaurants: creative cocktails paired with Hong Kong-style milk tea.
Hong Kong-style Afternoon Tea Revolution: Innovative Cocktails Paired with Hong Kong Snacks
Hong Kong-style Afternoon Tea Revolution: Innovative Cocktails Paired with Hong Kong SnacksHong Kong-style Afternoon Tea Revolution: Innovative Cocktails Paired with Hong Kong Snacks
Hong Kong-style afternoon tea, as a unique symbol of Hong Kong's culinary culture, has always been popular with locals and tourists alike. However, with the passage of time and the elevation of tastes, traditional Hong Kong afternoon tea is quietly undergoing a revolutionary change. Recently, a trend that blends innovative cocktails with classic Hong Kong dim sum has swept the city, injecting new vitality and charm into this century-old tradition.
This "Cocktail Afternoon Tea Revolution" is not simply about adding cocktails to the afternoon tea menu, but is a deep cultural fusion and innovative attempt. It reflects Hong Kong people's respect for tradition while also showcasing an open attitude towards new things. This innovation not only enriches the content of afternoon tea but also brings new development directions to the entire beverage culture.
In this new trend, bartenders are unleashing their creativity by cleverly incorporating traditional Chinese elements into Western cocktails, creating a series of innovative cocktails unique to Hong Kong. For example, the "Dried Tangerine Peel Martini" based on dried tangerine peel not only retains the classic flavor of the martini but also adds a hint of Eastern charm. Another example is the "Milk Tea Old Fashioned," which perfectly combines the rich aroma of Hong Kong-style milk tea with the smoothness of whiskey, becoming a new favorite among many young people.
At the same time, dim sum chefs are also rising to the occasion, launching innovative dim sum that perfectly pairs with cocktails. Traditional classic Hong Kong dim sum, such as shrimp dumplings and siu mai, while retaining the original taste, have been infused with elements that enhance the flavors of the cocktails. For example, adding a touch of juniper berries to the shrimp dumplings not only adds layers of flavor but also complements cocktails based on gin.
This innovation goes beyond enjoyment on the palate; it extends into the visual and experiential realms. Many high-end hotels and restaurants have begun to launch themed cocktail afternoon teas, transforming the traditional three-tiered stand into a miniature cocktail bar, with each tier showcasing different styles of cocktails paired with dim sum. This new presentation method brings an unprecedented visual impact and tasting experience to guests.
The "Cocktail and Dim Sum" Project
The Hong Kong Lan Kwai Fong dining landmark "Fang Fang" launched an innovative "Cocktail and Dim Sum" unlimited brunch project in 2018, reconstructing Cantonese tea-drinking aesthetics with a concept of fusion between East and West. The bar team is led by international competition champion bartender Gagan Gurung, whose special Bloody Mary incorporates Southeast Asian-style spicy sauce made with curry leaves and lemongrass, creating a flavor dialogue with innovative Hong Kong dishes like bamboo charcoal black truffle wild mushroom dumplings and black caviar siu mai.
This project emphasizes the concept of "Tea and Alcohol Coexistence," combining classic dim sum craftsmanship with molecular mixology techniques. For instance, the signature "Fang Fang Shrimp Dumplings" are filled with three fresh shrimps and paired with 11-fold handmade crystal skin; the black truffle wild mushroom dumplings are wrapped in bamboo charcoal powder skin filled with mixed mushrooms and cloud ear mushrooms, complemented by the unique Tieguanyin cold brew base in the cocktail, creating a layered experience of "rich tea essence colliding with spicy alcohol body."
Credit: Weekend Weekly
In this perfect encounter of cocktails and afternoon tea, we see a harmonious coexistence of tradition and innovation. The bartenders fully unleash their creativity, incorporating local specialty ingredients such as longan, lychee, and osmanthus into the cocktails, creating a series of cocktail masterpieces with Hong Kong characteristics. These cocktails not only complement the flavors of Hong Kong-style dim sum but also possess great visual appeal, becoming a hot topic on social media.
It is worth mentioning that this innovation is not limited to high-end restaurants and hotels; some local tea restaurants and street vendors have begun to try launching their own specialty cocktail afternoon tea sets. They bring this trendy phenomenon into the daily lives of ordinary citizens with more affordable prices and a more down-to-earth approach. For example, one tea restaurant has introduced a "Cocktail Milk Tea" series that cleverly combines traditional Hong Kong-style milk tea with various spirits, creating flavors that are both familiar and novel.
This innovation has not only enriched Hong Kong's food culture but also brought new opportunities to the local beverage industry. More and more local bartenders are beginning to explore how to incorporate Chinese elements into Western cocktails, and many bars are starting to collaborate with dim sum chefs to create dedicated afternoon tea cocktail menus. This cross-disciplinary collaboration not only stimulated creative collisions but also injected new vitality into Hong Kong's drinking culture.
Hong Kong-style Innovative Cocktails
Crafted with ingenuity, the "Milk Tea 9-Yeah" special cocktail reconstructs the genetic essence of Hong Kong tea drinks using unique methods. The product employs a three-step refining process: the first step uses handmade, freshly brewed secret tea soup as the base, combined with classic condensed milk to outline a creamy texture; then, it gathers traditional Eastern huadiao wine with Western Scotch single malt whiskey, complemented by the fruitiness of yellow plum brandy, calibrated repeatedly by professional bartenders to achieve a golden triangle balance system of tea aroma (42%), alcohol fragrance (33%), and creaminess (25%).
This 6.6% ABV low-alcohol specialty drink breaks the traditional boundaries of tea and alcohol, achieving molecular reconstruction of the drink body through cold brew integration technology. On entry, it exhibits a velvety smooth texture, with initial notes of bergamot and roasted tea aroma intertwining, the mid-palate releasing hints of whiskey oak barrel aging and the sweetness of huadiao, while the finish concludes with the fruit acidity of plum brandy, shaping the three layers of taste: "rich - fragrant - refreshing." The special low-sugar formula retains the signature creamy mouthfeel of Hong Kong-style milk tea but without the cloying burden of traditional milk cap drinks.
Credit: Si Fu Good Tea Tea Cocktail Series – Milk Tea
However, this innovation also faces some challenges. How to maintain the essence of tradition amidst innovation, and how to ensure that cocktails and dim sum pair in a complementary rather than overpowering manner are issues the industry needs to continually explore and improve. At the same time, ensuring that this new trend can develop sustainably, and is not just a passing fad, is also a long-term issue for the industry to contemplate.
Nevertheless, the innovative concept of "Cocktail Afternoon Tea" undoubtedly brings new possibilities to Hong Kong's culinary culture and beverage industry. It is not only an innovative extension of traditional afternoon tea culture but also a vivid manifestation of Hong Kong's continuous fusion of Eastern and Western cultures and its constant evolution.
Looking to the future, we can expect to see more surprising innovations. Perhaps one day, "Hong Kong-style Cocktail Afternoon Tea" will become a new calling card for Hong Kong to showcase its unique cultural charm to the world, alongside the Italian Aperitivo culture and Spanish Tapas culture as internationally renowned culinary cultures.
For the food and drink lovers in Hong Kong, this is undoubtedly an exciting era. Whether you are a loyal supporter of traditional afternoon tea or a passionate enthusiast of cocktails, this "Cocktail Afternoon Tea Revolution" offers you a brand-new perspective to rediscover and appreciate the food culture of this city. The next time you stroll through the streets of Hong Kong, why not step into a restaurant that offers innovative cocktail afternoon tea, personally experience this revolution of flavors, and feel the sparks created by the collision of tradition and innovation? You will surely find that in this ever-hustling city, even the most traditional afternoon tea can radiate new charm.
Hong Kong-style Afternoon Tea Revolution: Innovative Cocktails Paired with Hong Kong SnacksHong Kong-style Afternoon Tea Revolution: Innovative Cocktails Paired with Hong Kong Snacks
The Perfect Pairing of Hong Kong Street Food and Craft Beer: Discover New Food Trends
The street food culture in Hong Kong has a long history, from crispy egg waffles to spicy curry fish balls, each bite carries the unique memories and flavors of this city. In recent years, with the rise of craft beer culture, a new food trend is sweeping through Hong Kong—skillfully pairing traditional street food with craft beer, creating an astonishing taste experience. This is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a way of life that blends tradition with innovation, reflecting the diversity and vitality of Hong Kong's food culture.
The Rise of Craft Beer Culture in Hong Kong
Hong Kong's beer culture has undergone tremendous changes in recent years. According to data from the Hong Kong Wine & Spirits Industry Coalition, the craft beer market in Hong Kong saw a growth rate of 15% in 2022, far exceeding the growth rate of traditional mass beer brands. This wave of excitement is attributed to the rapid development of local craft beer brands like Young Master and Gweilo, as well as the influx of international brands.
Behind this trend is the consumers' pursuit of personalized and high-quality beverages. According to a report from market research firm Statista, the average beer consumption per person in Hong Kong is about 24 liters per year, with the share of craft beer rising from 5% in 2018 to 12% in 2023. The younger generation, in particular, is eager to explore new flavors, providing fertile ground for the pairing of street food and craft beer.
As the cornerstone of Hong Kong's food culture, street food similarly possesses remarkable vitality. According to statistics from the Hong Kong Tourism Board, more than 70% of tourists say that street food is an important way for them to experience local culture. Today, this tradition is being revitalized through its combination with craft beer.
Classic Pairings of Hong Kong Street Food and Craft Beer
The pairing of street food and craft beer is an art, requiring a balance of taste, flavor, and layers. Below are 10 craft beers available in supermarkets and convenience stores in Hong Kong (such as 7-11, Circle K, and ParknShop), along with their perfect combinations with street food, based on real brands and actual experiences:
Young Master Classic Pale Ale
Pairing: Curry Fish Balls
Reason: This pale ale brings citrus and floral notes that complement the spices of curry, creating a balance of freshness and heat.
Purchase Locations: ParknShop, 7-11
Gweilo Session IPA
Pairing: Egg Waffles
Reason: The light bitterness of the IPA balances the sweetness of the egg waffles, making the hot snack perfectly matched with the cold beer.
Purchase Locations: Circle K, Wellcome
Hoegaarden White
Pairing: Siu Mai
Reason: The soft taste of wheat beer complements the fresh aromas of siu mai, with flavors of clove and orange peel adding layers.
Purchase Locations: 7-11, ParknShop
BrewDog Punk IPA
Pairing: Pan-Fried Stuffed Tofu
Reason: The intense bitterness of the IPA contrasts with the oiliness of the pan-fried stuffed tofu, enhancing the overall flavor.
Purchase Locations: ParknShop, Taste
Asahi Super Dry
Pairing: Fish Ball Skewers
Reason: The refreshing taste pairs well with the freshness of fish balls, simple yet delicious.
Purchase Locations: 7-11, Circle K
Hitachino Nest White Ale
Pairing: Cheung Fun
Reason: The gentle fruitiness of Japanese white ale pairs beautifully with the smoothness of cheung fun, with the soy sauce's saltiness being easily highlighted.
Purchase Locations: ParknShop, Don Don Donki
Stone IPA
Pairing: Chicken Wings
Reason: The strong hop flavor contrasts with the greasiness of the chicken wings, providing a refreshing experience.
Purchase Locations: Taste, Wellcome
Guinness Stout
Pairing: Pig's Intestine Rolls
Reason: The caramel and coffee flavors of the stout complement the rich sauce of the pig's intestine rolls.
Purchase Locations: 7-11, ParknShop
Leffe Blonde
Pairing: Beef Offal
Reason: The sweet aroma of Belgian blonde ale enhances the rich broth of the beef offal, warm and satisfying.
Purchase Locations: Circle K, Taste
Brooklyn Lager
Pairing: Fried Sesame Balls
Reason: The crispness of lager contrasts interestingly with the sweet and crunchy sesame balls, perfect for a leisurely afternoon tea time.
Purchase Locations: Wellcome, ParknShop
Historically, Hong Kong's street food originated from the working class diet of the early 20th century, simple yet full of human warmth. The craft beer, on the other hand, has emerged as a 'new luxury' in the past decade. The combination of the two retains the down-to-earth characteristics of street food while incorporating the sophistication of high-end beer culture, serving as a model of cultural integration.
The Art and Science of Pairing Beer with Street Food
The success of beer pairing is not a random combination; it is built on a deep understanding of flavors. Here are a few core principles to consider when pairing:
Complementary Principle: Similar flavors can enhance each other. For example, the caramel notes of dark beer resonate with the rich sauce of curry fish balls.
Contrast Principle: Opposing tastes can create surprises, such as the bitterness of IPA contrasting with the sweetness of egg waffles.
Balance Principle: Avoid one element overpowering another, for instance, a light wheat beer will not overshadow the freshness of siu mai.
Historically, Hong Kong’s street food originated in the working-class diets of the early 20th century, simple yet filled with warmth. Meanwhile, craft beer has only emerged as a
Hong Kong-style Afternoon Tea Revolution: Innovative Cocktails Paired with Hong Kong SnacksHong Kong-style Afternoon Tea Revolution: Innovative Cocktails Paired with Hong Kong Snacks
As we enter the new year, the Year of the Snake quietly arrives with symbols of good fortune and infinite blessings. Whether you are choosing a gift for family, friends, or important clients, a gift box of wine is undoubtedly the best choice to showcase taste and sincerity. This special year of the Snake requires a carefully selected gift box of wine to convey blessings. This article will introduce some suitable wines to give during the Year of the Snake, helping you choose the most appropriate gift box of wine.
2025 Suitable Gift Wines for the Year of the Snake
- Whiskey: Whiskey is often regarded as a high-end gift choice due to its unique flavor and rich historical background. Especially high-aged whiskeys, such as Johnnie Walker Blue Label or Royal Salute 21 Year, these wines not only have a rich taste but also high collectible value.
- Cognac: Limited editions from Hennessy and Martell usually have elegant aromas and rich flavors, making them very suitable as gifts for elders or important clients.
- Red Wine: Red wine is the most common gift choice, especially wines from renowned regions such as Bordeaux or Napa Valley, which can showcase your taste.
- Sake and Plum Wine: These types of Japanese wines are popular for their unique flavors and refreshing taste, especially suitable for those who appreciate Asian flavors.
Gift Suggestions for Elders: Combining Tradition and Health
Gifts for elders usually need to reflect respect and care, so choosing wines that enhance health benefits is a good option.
Red Wine: Scientific research has shown that moderate consumption of red wine can help cardiovascular health. You can choose Bordeaux red wines or Chilean vintages with berry aromas and smooth tannins to convey your feelings.
Shao Xing Wine/Health Wine: Pure Shao Xing yellow wine rich in Chinese traditional culture or health wines enriched with precious medicinal herbs are both very beneficial for health.
Packaging Suggestions: Choose carefully designed wooden or bamboo box packaging to convey a unique taste of traditional aesthetics.
Gift Suggestions for Friends and Colleagues
Mini Wine Gift Boxes: Include several mini bottles of wine or spirits, convenient to carry while adding enjoyment to exploring different flavors.
Craft Beer Gift Boxes: For friends who love beer, limited edition beers from local or internationally renowned breweries are definitely an exciting option.
Packaging Suggestions: Add customized labels or zodiac decorations for the Year of the Snake to enhance the festive charm.
Business and Anniversary Gift Suggestions
Vintage Wine: Select aged wines with collectible value, such as the finest wines from Bordeaux's Left Bank.
Premium Whiskey: Such as single malt whiskey, a classic that is solid and atmospheric, very suitable for expressing respect to clients or partners.
Packaging Suggestions: Pair with crystal wine glasses or handmade wine utensils to make the overall gift box more exquisite and elegant.
2025 Year of the Snake Gift Box Recommendations
1. Johnnie Walker Blue Label Limited Edition Year of the Snake Bottle
Features: This whiskey is themed around the Year of the Snake, with bottle design by Hollywood illustrator James Jean, unique and artistic.
Reference Price: Approximately HK$1,660
Alcohol: 46%
Volume: 700ml
Suitable For: Friends, business partners.
Purchase Link:https://bit.ly/3PuBxCk
*Johnnie Walker Blue Label (Year of the Snake Limited Edition) 750ml
2. Hennessy V.S.O.P Year of the Snake Spring Festival Limited Edition
Features: A re-packaged Cognac, in collaboration with a new designer, integrating Chinese elements to showcase a blend of colors and culture.
Reference Price: HK$598
Alcohol: 40%
Volume: 700ml
Suitable For: Elders, important clients.
Purchase Link:https://bit.ly/4jbDUaw
*Hennessy V.S.O.P Year of the Snake Spring Festival Limited Edition
3. Martell Cordon Bleu Cognac 2025 Year of the Snake New Year Edition
Features: An exceptionally styled Cognac, its name originates from the old French phrase “Noblesse Oblige” (meaning the obligations of the noble). Rich aromas of pear and plum, exotic hints of vanilla pod and caramel grapes, with unique woody scents of myrrh tree, cedar, and fine-grained oak.
Alcohol: 40%
Volume: 700ml
Reference Price: HK$698
Suitable For: High-end gifts, collectors.
Purchase Link:https://bit.ly/3DLRXU6
*Martell Cordon Bleu Cognac 2025 Year of the Snake New Year Edition
4. BenRiach 12 Year Old New Year Gift Box
Features: Careful proportioning ensures not only the whiskey's distinct layers but also elevates the flavor profile of BenRiach 12 Year Old to a new peak. To celebrate the arrival of the Lunar New Year, BenRiach has specially designed a new year gift box with the theme “Auspicious Snake Blessing,” rich in Eastern charm.
Volume: 700ml
Reference Price: HK$499
Suitable For: Family members, friends.
Purchase Link:https://bit.ly/3W9Xj1C
*BENRIACH 12 Year Old New Year Gift Box
5. Rémy Martin XO 2025 Year of the Snake New Spring Gift Box
Features: Rémy Martin invites renowned Chinese artist Huang Yuxing to interpret its Year of the Snake series. The palate is rich, opening with flavors of plum, ripe figs, and candied oranges, accompanied by hints of cinnamon and fresh crushed hazelnuts.
Alcohol: 40%
Volume: 700ml
Reference Price: HK$1,698
Suitable For: Elders, important clients.
Purchase Link:https://bit.ly/40aESLr
*Rémy Martin XO 2025 Year of the Snake New Spring Gift Box
6. Reiwa 2025 Year of the Snake Junmai Daiginjo Sake (1.8L)
Features: The “Reiwa 2025 Year of the Snake Junmai Daiginjo Sake” is a limited edition released only at year-end every year. To celebrate the arrival of 2025, Orita Sake Brewery uses high-quality domestic rice, complemented by the auspicious snake pattern on the sake barrel, wishing everyone better prospects in the new year.
Alcohol: 15-16%
Volume: 1800ml
Reference Price: HK$688
Suitable For: Alcohol enthusiasts, friends.
Purchase Link:https://bit.ly/4jc2yb1
*Reiwa 2025 Year of the Snake Junmai Daiginjo Sake 1800ml
Hong Kong-style Afternoon Tea Revolution: Innovative Cocktails Paired with Hong Kong SnacksHong Kong-style Afternoon Tea Revolution: Innovative Cocktails Paired with Hong Kong Snacks
The Lunar New Year is one of the most significant traditional festivals in Asia and the Chinese world, as well as a precious moment for family and friends to gather and share delicious food. As the focal point of the annual reunion dinner, each meticulously prepared festive dish not only carries hopes for the new year but also profoundly reflects human warmth and cultural depth. If a well-chosen wine can accompany these traditional dishes at the banquet, it not only enhances the entire dining experience but also brings a refined and charming atmosphere to the guests.
Why Festive Dishes Need Wine Pairing
The pairing of wine with food has always been a science as well as an art. In the reunion dinner, where traditional dishes carry cultural significance and culinary essence, seemingly traditional flavors actually offer more possibilities for wine pairing. A successful pairing can be said to be a resonance between taste buds, a perfect embodiment of integrating global wine culture into Eastern dining traditions. In fact, this is not only a means of enhancing flavor but can also add taste and layers to the banquet. The aroma and flavor of a carefully selected wine can add depth to festive dishes, and the interaction between the wine and the dishes can highlight delicate and rich layers of flavor.
Classic Examples of Festive Dishes and Wine Pairing
During the Lunar New Year, the reunion dinner is the highlight of family gatherings, and each exquisite festive dish carries blessings and expectations. Pairing these delicacies with suitable wine can not only enhance the dining experience but also add an elegant atmosphere to the entire banquet. Here are some classic festive dishes and their best wine pairings, allowing you to enjoy a richer taste experience during the Spring Festival.
1. The Irreplaceable “White Cut Chicken”
Dish Flavor Characteristics: White cut chicken is renowned for its delicate meat that is oily yet not greasy, emphasizing the original flavor of the chicken with a light yet layered taste.
Best Wine Pairing: A refreshing white wine from Chablis is the most suitable choice. Its slightly mineral taste can balance the fat of the chicken and delicately highlight its sweet and fresh flavor. The fresh acidity of Chablis is like a clear spring, perfectly melting away the richness of the meat, making each bite refreshing.
2. Aromatic “Braised Lion’s Head”
Dish Flavor Characteristics: This famous Jiangsu and Zhejiang dish is known for its rich sauce and tender meat, offering a full and mouthwatering taste.
Best Wine Pairing: It is recommended to pair it with a soft-bodied Pinot Noir. Its medium body and delicate layers can make the rich sauce of the lion's head smoother, not overpowering the main dish while providing a rich contrast on the palate. In Hong Kong, many families choose this pairing to welcome the new year and enhance the festive atmosphere.
The benefits of pairing reunion dinner with wine lie in enhancing the dining experience and adding to the festive atmosphere. The right wine can balance the rich flavors of the traditional dishes, especially the greasy ones. Sparkling wine or rosé, with their refreshing taste, can effectively neutralize the oily sensation, making each bite more palatable. Additionally, the tannins in red wine can reduce the greasiness of meat and enhance the overall flavor, allowing everyone to enjoy the wonderful time of reunion more. Choosing the right wine not only adds color to the dining table but also promotes interaction and joy among family members.
3. The "Steamed Grouper" with Abundance Every Year
Dish Flavor Characteristics: Grouper has a tender texture, usually paired with light sauces to showcase the freshness of seafood.
Best Wine Pairing: Italian Vermentino white wine is an excellent choice. Its unique citrus aroma and subtle salinity complement Asian seafood dishes well, providing a naturally rewarding acidity that makes the entire dish more vibrant.
4. Satisfying "Claypot Rice with Preserved Meats"
Dish Flavor Characteristics: Claypot rice with preserved meats is rich and oily, with an abundance of savory flavors. It features both crisp and soft textures, making it one of Hong Kong's iconic cuisines.
Best Wine Pairing: Best paired with Spanish Rosé. The fresh fruitiness of Rosé wine perfectly balances the heaviness of the preserved meats, enhancing the dish's layers. Especially those with a hint of sweetness, the Rosé elevates the crispness of the rice, making it a favorite.
5. Perfectly Sweet "Freshly Ground Almond Tea"
Dish Flavor Characteristics: Almond tea is sweet without being cloying, with a rich almond aroma, and is a common dessert during the New Year period.
Best Wine Pairing: Moscato d’Asti is an excellent dessert companion. It carries notes of honey and almond, as if tailor-made for almond tea. The slight effervescence and low alcohol content make it refreshing and pleasant, without overshadowing the main course, enriching the overall dining experience.
Wine is not just a beverage; it is a lifestyle. With the rise of social media, people increasingly enjoy sharing their dining experiences. During reunion dinners, inviting friends and family for delicate tasting exchanges not only strengthens relationships but also allows everyone to enjoy food and wine in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
