Sheung Wan’s historic tea district welcomes Chas by the Time, a multi-concept destination blending artisanal brewing, gourmet tea-infused dining, and curated lifestyle shopping.
The cultural landscape of Sheung Wan has gained a sophisticated new landmark with the official opening of Chas by the Time, a three-story boutique tea concept store located at 286 Queen’s Road Central. Founded by tea master Ming Chiu—the visionary behind “Miss Grandpa” and “Old Soul Tea House”—this immersive venue seeks to modernize traditional tea appreciation. By integrating a takeaway bar, a dedicated restaurant for tea-infused cuisine, and a serene event space, the establishment offers a holistic journey through the lifecycle of the tea leaf, catering to both hurried commuters and slow-living enthusiasts.
A Tri-Level Narrative of Growth
The architectural design of the building mirrors the growth of a tea plant, from seed to harvest. Each floor offers a distinct atmosphere:
- Ground Floor (The Seed): A minimalist takeaway counter and retail zone featuring raw stone and earthy tones. Here, guests can browse curated lifestyle goods and local handicrafts.
- First Floor (The Bloom): The main dining room, bathed in warm amber light and wooden textures. Custom chandeliers shaped like gaiwan (traditional lidded tea bowls) hang overhead, symbolizing the peak of the tea-steeping process.
- Second Floor (The Essence): A tranquil walnut-clad space designed for tea ceremonies, workshops, and tasting sessions, representing the spiritual elevation of tea culture.
Innovative Brewing: From “Floating Dir-Tea” to Cold Brews
At the ground-floor tea bar, the menu features 16 curated selections, ranging from Heavy Roasted Oolong to Wild Ginger Flower Oolong. A standout innovation is the “Floating Dir-Tea” series, a creative twist on the “Dirty” coffee trend. This signature beverage layers rich Ethiopian espresso over a base of oat milk tea, creating a striking contrast of temperatures and textures.
For those seeking local nostalgia, the “Hong Kong Tea Series” features seasonal partnerships with historic local tea merchants like Lin Chi Yuen and Fook Wah, offering premium cold-brewed Pu-erh and Tieguanyin that celebrate the city’s heritage.
Gastronomic Infusions: Tea as a Culinary Core
The first-floor restaurant elevates tea from a beverage to a primary ingredient. The culinary team utilizes specific tea leaves to enhance various proteins and starches:
- Appetizers: Tuna sashimi marinated in local White Orchid Jasmine Green Tea and pigeon slow-cooked in Oolong-infused brine.
- Main Courses: Pork collar slow-cooked for 24 hours with 10-year aged Old White Tea, and lamb shank braised in a savory Heavy Roasted Tieguanyin reduction.
- Signature Pasta: Wagyu beef short rib marinated in Lapsang Souchong, served with orzo that absorbs the smoky aroma of the tea.
Exclusive Launch Rewards
To celebrate its grand opening, Chas by the Time is offering limited-time promotions through March 6. Customers who follow the shop’s Instagram (@chas_bythetime) can enjoy a “Buy One, Get Second at 50% Off” deal on takeaway drinks. Additionally, guests who spend over $150 at the restaurant can redeem a complimentary Heavy Roasted Oolong Oat Latte at the ground-floor bar.
As Sheung Wan continues to evolve, Chas by the Time serves as a bridge between generations, proving that the ancient art of tea remains a vibrant, essential part of the modern Hong Kong lifestyle.