A new culinary experience at Tsim Sha Tsui’s Hotel ICON invites matcha enthusiasts on a journey through Japan’s most celebrated tea-growing prefectures.
Hong Kong’s afternoon tea scene welcomes a refined addition this season. Hotel ICON’s lobby restaurant, GREEN, has unveiled a brand-new three-course “Japanese Matcha Tea Afternoon Tea” — a carefully curated menu that draws its inspiration and ingredients from three of Japan’s most renowned tea-producing regions: Uji, Shizuoka, and Kagoshima. Launched exclusively at the Tsim Sha Tsui hotel, the set is available daily from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM and must be booked at least one day in advance.
A Savory Prelude Infused with Japanese Flavors
The experience begins with a trio of appetizers designed to awaken the palate. Guests are greeted with a chilled yuzu-marinated tomato, Iberico ham wrapped around fig and hojicha cream, and Japanese-style grilled eggplant with bonito flakes. Each dish is accompanied by a welcome glass of iced matcha, offering a refreshing and aromatic start.
Main Courses with Tea-Infused Elegance
Diners may choose from three main courses, each incorporating tea as a central ingredient. The slow-braised beef short rib is cooked with hojicha (roasted green tea) , resulting in tender meat with a subtle, smoky depth. The seasonal fish is paired with Uji matcha lemon sauce and pearl barley, where the tea’s vegetal notes balance the citrus tang. For a lighter option, the shrimp and soba noodle salad is served with a Uji matcha tofu dressing — creamy, rich, and surprisingly delicate.
Six Desserts Designed for Progressive Tasting
The highlight arrives on a two-tier wooden stand: six desserts arranged from lightest to strongest in tea flavor. The selection includes Kagoshima matcha yuzu madeleines, Shizuoka matcha mochi cake rolls, hojicha panna cotta with creamy cheese foam, pineapple konjac jelly, white peach oolong mousse, and Uji matcha Basque cheesecake. The Basque cheesecake, in particular, is noted for its velvety texture and intense matcha finish, topped with light matcha cream and white chocolate shavings.
To complete the sweet course, guests can enjoy unlimited servings of house-made Uji matcha and hojicha soft-serve ice cream — a rare indulgence for any tea lover. For an additional HK$48, the experience can be elevated with an iced matcha latte.
Pricing and Availability
The afternoon tea is offered until November 1, 2026, and reservations are required one day in advance. Pricing is set at HK$388 per person (HK$698 for two) on weekdays, and HK$448 per person (HK$788 for two) on weekends and public holidays, with weekend diners receiving a complimentary glass of French sparkling wine. A 10% service charge applies to all bills.
A Growing Trend in Hong Kong’s Tea Culture
This launch reflects a broader shift in Hong Kong’s culinary landscape, where high-quality Japanese tea is moving beyond the teapot and into fine dining. By sourcing matcha directly from Uji, Shizuoka, and Kagoshima — each known for distinct flavor profiles ranging from sweet and mild to deep and umami-rich — Hotel ICON is catering to an increasingly discerning audience of tea connoisseurs and dessert enthusiasts alike.
For those looking to explore the intersection of traditional tea craftsmanship and modern gastronomy, this afternoon tea offers a compelling, immersive experience. Advance booking is strongly recommended, as availability is limited.
To reserve, visit the official booking link: bit.ly/4hXIRHO