Updated: 12.10.2019
Since opening in early 2018, I've visited The Murray on only two occasions - first for the exquisite Popinjay seafood brunch with free-flowing Ruinart, and this second time to try their famed afternoon tea set at Garden Lounge. The tea set has been revamped just for the holiday season with a Christmas twist, and includes festive delights like gingerbread scones and Christmas tree-shaped turkey sandwiches.
Follow me on Instagram (@FURELLIE) for the chance to win a festive afternoon tea set (for two) at The Murray, as I will be launching a giveaway today, Tuesday 10th December. The winner will be announced on Thursday 12th December. Good luck! Now read on below for what's in store if you win.
Garden Lounge is located on the "Garden Level", just one floor up from the lobby entrance. The sprawling space bedecked with marble and brass overlooks Cotton Tree Drive, and the heated outdoor area even accommodates your fur babies. Ask them about the special pets' afternoon tea menu.
The full set is priced at HK$688+10% for two guests, and includes basic options for teas and coffees. You have the option to upgrade the set with a glass of house champagne for HK$148, or a bottle of champagne for HK$748. I wasn't really in the drinking mood, so opted for a cappuccino this time.
The gingerbread scones arrived first, and they were accompanied by chocolate cookies and biscuits.
The homemade cheese clotted cream and assorted homemade jams were tasty! The warm gingerbread scone has unique spicy notes, and has a lighter and fluffier texture than the traditional scone.
The savoury tier of the afternoon tea set comprised of mushroom and pumpkin quiche, roasted turkey sandwich with cranberry cream cheese, gammon ham and gruyere sandwich with a thin layer of mulled wine gelee, and poached Maine lobster on brioche, among other nibbles. The holiday focus really worked here, and I loved how the chef used flavours like cranberry and mulled wine to strike a delicious balance with the savoury elements.
The sweet part of the afternoon tea was a cute presentation of pastries like chestnut cream with pistachio, cassis and yogurt religieuse and chocolate raspberry macarons. Look how festive and colourful!
All in all, a lovely al fresco option in Admiralty for afternoon tea. The only small gripe I'd have about the experience is that the staff didn't explain a single item they brought to the table, and seemed a little hassled during service. It does get quite crowded during tea hours, so make sure to book a table in advance!
Garden Lounge, The Murray Hong Kong
Tel: +852 3141 8888
Seating times: 2:30pm-4:15pm, 4:30pm-6:30pm
Address: Garden/F, 22 Cotton Tree Drive, Central, Hong Kong