As much as I enjoy sightseeing on vacation, many-a-time, my predilection for relaxation means that tea for an entire afternoon can equate to time well-spent. Afterall, what is the point of a hiatus if one adheres to the same harried routine back home and is unable to take a break from all that helter skelter?
Having made a trip to The Landmark, one of the most grandiose shopping malls in Hong Kong that boasts an impressive line-up of designer brands, we decided to stop over at Joel de Robuchon's tea atelier (Le Salon de Thé de Joel Robuchon) for some light delights.
Upon arrival, I was flabbergasted by the splendid display - rows and rows of immaculately arranged macaroons resembled an impeccably ordered cavalry, and the wide selection of a plethora of cakes arranged side by side painted a scene of different regiments being lined up at the frontlines in gastronomic garrisons.
What valour, o cakes, soon to be devoured!
Sad to say, the positive first impression that we had did not last, for the counter staff was impudent and inflexible, refusing vehemently to get us a table prior to ordering even after we had explained that one of our members was feeling under the weather. Furthermore, their insolence was compounded by their curt attitude in dealing with us (e.g. when making payment at the cashier upon ordering), calling into question the standard of their staff training.
As for food and drinks, we ordered a berry smoothie and cappucino, both of which were decent but not outstanding. What was sui generis though (and yes, I know I've used that term in a recent post, but unfortunately, no other word comes to mind now) was their dessert. We ordered a chocolate gateau, a fruit macaroon and a passionfruit tart (if I remember correctly), all of whose names I am unable to recall. While the chocolate cake was decadent, it tasted slightly like peanut butter and was too nutty for my liking. On the other hand, the macaroon was extremely well-presented and had soft fruity notes without being too overpowering nor overwhelmingly saccharine, such that its finesse automatically propelled it to the highest echelons of all macaroons I have had. (I would dare say that it rivals and even beats some of the macaroons at Ladurée.) Last but not least, the tart was subliminally nuanced, what with its gelatinous covering and hints of passionfruit within. Simply exceptional.
Dessert
A maternal macaroon topped with a baby macaroon!
All in all, tea at the Salon de Thé provided some much-needed respite from the blazing summer Sun, though the management should definitely look into raising service standards that threaten to mar an otherwise enjoyable experience.
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