Hong Kong heritage confectionery brand After Taste has achieved unprecedented international acclaim for its signature Original Palmiers, securing the highest honors from two prestigious global food assessment bodies—the International Taste Institute (ITI) and Monde Selection. As the Lunar New Year approaches, the brand solidifies its position as a premier choice for high-quality festive gifting, concurrently debuting a new Chinese pastry, the Sesame Walnut Shortbread, now available at major retail locations across the city.
Local Confectionery Secures Dual “Food Michelin” Titles
The brand’s flagship product, the Original Palmiers (HK$108), has cemented After Taste’s reputation on the global stage by earning simultaneous top accolades described as the “Michelin of the food world.” Following its achievement of the Grand Gold Award from Monde Selection last year, the Palmiers recently received the coveted 3-Star Superior Taste Award—the highest possible honor—from the ITI Jury in Brussels. This success makes the Original Palmiers a rare “Double King” in the competitive international fine food landscape.
The Original Palmiers are celebrated for their meticulous preparation, utilizing a “double baking” technique and precise, multi-layered folding to achieve their iconic golden caramelized edges. Tasting notes highlight an exceptionally crunchy and airy texture, a nuanced progression of butter aroma, and balanced sweetness—qualities that distinguish them as a sophisticated gifting option.
Beyond the star-performing Palmiers, two other After Taste classics have also achieved global recognition, each claiming awards from both assessment organizations (Monde Selection Gold Award and ITI 1-Star Superior Taste Award), demonstrating the brand’s commitment to ingredient quality and traditional craftsmanship.
Signature Classics Earn International Recognition
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Premium Butter Egg Rolls (HK$108): These delicate rolls are crafted using select New Zealand-imported butter and fresh farm eggs, employing traditional baking methods. They are noted for a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a harmonious blend of rich egg and authentic butter flavor.
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Seaweed Pork Floss Phoenix Rolls (HK$128): Offering a nostalgic yet elevated taste profile, this treat features a sweet, flaky egg roll exterior wrapped around a savory, abundant filling of dried seaweed and seasoned pork floss. The balanced contrast between sweet and savory makes this a perennial favorite.
Introducing the New Sesame Walnut Shortbread
Catering to the Lunar New Year tradition of sharing quality Chinese pastries, After Taste is expanding its line-up with the introduction of the new Sesame Walnut Shortbread (HK$39.9). This latest addition highlights premium ingredients by combining fragrant sesame, crunchy walnuts, and imported New Zealand butter. The shortbread delivers a rich, multi-layered nutty aroma and a satisfying crumbly texture, making it an ideal inclusion for celebratory family gatherings or everyday afternoon tea.
Where to Purchase After Taste Confections
Consumers looking to secure these internationally acclaimed Hong Kong treats for holiday gifting or personal consumption can find the products at an extensive list of premium and mass-market retailers across Hong Kong.
Key Retail Locations Include:
- City’super (All branches)
- YATA (All branches)
- SOGO (Causeway Bay)
- AEON (All branches)
- Don Don Donki (All branches)
- Eslite (All branches)
- ParknShop Taste (Select high-traffic locations)
- GREAT (Pacific Place, Admiralty)
- Wellcome (Select branches, including Causeway Bay)
After Taste’s remarkable success in multiple global food assessments underscores the rising standard and international viability of local Hong Kong confectionery brands. Their dual status as award winners elevates these classic pastries from simple festive treats to world-class edible gifts, affirming their quality just in time for the Lunar New Year celebrations.