Afternoon high tea spots in KL

There’s nothing like a sweet treat to remedy that afternoon slump. While we usually reach for packets of biscuits on slower days, it’s nice to indulge in a more refined affair on occasion – think cake stands generously laden with pretty pastries, and fine bone China teapots brimming with fragrant tea atop a pristine white tablecloth.

But as much as we adore fancy settings and cute finger sandwiches that come with drool-worthy high tea sets, it isn’t exactly a wallet-friendly dining option. So we’ve compiled a list of afternoon high tea places in KL, where you can gorge on sweet and savoury treats with a side of tea, without forking out an arm and a leg for them.

1. Thirty8 Restaurant Bar & Lounge at Grand Hyatt – high tea with views of KLCC

Afternoon High Tea KL - thirty8
Image credit: @thirty8kl via Instagram

Taking pictures of KL’s skyline may not be enough – better to sit down for a leisurely meal to fully appreciate a bird’s eye view of the city. At Thirty8 Restaurant Bar & Lounge, you can heighten your high tea experience with a panoramic view of KL.

Located on the 38th floor of Grand Hyatt KL, the lounge is where you have afternoon high tea with some of the best views of the Petronas Twin Towers.

Afternoon High Tea KL - thirty8 view
Image credit: @wanfei_lee via Instagram

Indulge in the Thirty8 Afternoon Tea: Silk Road Classics (RM198 for 2 pax) – a sumptuous three-tier afternoon tea set comprising sweet and savoury selections that infuse local flavours into Western delicacies.

Afternoon High Tea KL - thirty8 food
Image adapted from: @thirty8kl via Instagram

Some interesting treats you can look out for with this are wok-fried kung pao chicken topped with Szechuan chilli, or some eye-catching sandwiches like the Smoked Atlantic Petuna Trout which are green tea-infused bread slices filled with Moutarde de Meaux mustard and topped with dill cucumbers.

Their Valrhona chocolate tart and poached apple éclair complement the free flow of coffee and JING tea.

Address: Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, 12, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours (for high tea): 12pm-5pm, Daily (Closed on every second Sunday of each month)
Contact: 03-2203 9188

2. Pavilions Lounge at Sheraton Imperial Hotel – high tea in a magnificent lounge

Afternoon High Tea KL - pavilion
Image credit: Pavilions Lounge at Sheraton Imperial KL via Facebook

Pavilions Lounge is tucked within Sheraton Imperial Hotel, with its show-stopping setup and ornate furnishings that lets guests experience a regal high tea affair.

Sparkling chandeliers, velvet couches, and Neoclassical stairways will be the backdrop to your idyllic afternoon tea that’s also affordable.

Afternoon High Tea KL - pavilion lounge
Image credit: @sheratonimperialkl via Instagram

A very classic afternoon tea with quintessential high tea treats are served on a very English three-tiered dessert stand. Pavilion Lounge’s current offering – the Classic Afternoon Tea Set (RM128 for 2 pax) – comes with a choice of TWG tea or freshly brewed coffee, along with a plethora of cakes, desserts and more.

Afternoon High Tea KL - pavilion tea
Image credit: @ivytee23 via Instagram

Start off with their middle tier, which holds a savoury trio – stuffed sandwiches, rolled-up crepes, and cheese on crackers. The desserts don’t fall short either – the top tier features gorgeous and rich chocolate eclairs, mini tartlets, brownie bites, and macaroons.

Afternoon High Tea KL - pavilion food
Image adapted from: Ong Wai Kean via Google Photos & @sheratonimperialkl via Instagram

Warm cranberry scones are served like prized possessions on the lower tier, with a range of jams and classic clotted cream to slather between the fluffy scones.

Address: Pavilions Lounge, Mezzanine Floor, Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Hotel, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours (for high tea): 2.30pm-5.30pm, Daily
Contact: 03-2717 9977  afternoon high tea KL

3. Woobar at W Kuala Lumpur – sophisticated Raya delicacies

Afternoon High Tea KL - woobar
Image credit: @wkualalumpur via Instagram

Woobar at W Kuala Lumpur is one of the chicest bars in the heart of the city that takes their interior seriously. Blending a chic speakeasy ambience with seductive fluorescent lights that illuminate its space, the bar crafts amazing cocktails by night and serves themed afternoon tea menus by day alongside their stylish setup. 

Afternoon High Tea KL - woobar lounge
You can also grab a drink here before the evening falls.
Image credit: W Kuala Lumpur

Woobar currently offers Luxeri-Tea (RM168/pax), a fashionable afternoon tea set in collaboration with Nurita Harith that is a medley of sweet and savoury Raya delicacies.

Instead of the usual tea sandwiches, there are interesting treats such as Crab Kerabu Pie Tie, Pulut Kuning, Wagyu Rendang, and Otak-Otak Cod. The desserts are not to be missed out on either – Onde Onde Sphere, Jackfruit Scones, Durian Choux, and Neslo Brownie Bars are all fine selections that look like a tempting work of art.

Afternoon High Tea KL - woobar high tea
Image credit: W Kuala Lumpur

Address: No. 121, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours (for high tea): 3pm-5pm, Daily
Contact: 012-347 9088  afternoon high tea KL

4. Latitude 03 at Le Meridien Hotel – different themed-menu every month

Afternoon High Tea KL - woobar
Image credit: Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur via Facebook

For us Malaysians who long to experience the magical sights of blossoms in their full splendour during the spring season, Latitude 03 at Le Meridien will give you a slice of the beautiful season with their Spring Season Afternoon Tea (RM120/pax).

Only available till 31st May 2023, the spring-inspired tea menu comprises delicacies that feature flavours that taste like the fresh and sweet air of spring and invigorating blooms.

Afternoon High Tea KL - lemeridien
Image credit: @lemeridienkl via Instagram

Start your high tea off with the Pan-seared Parmesan Scallop, Corn Croquette, Smoked Salmon Rose, and Curried Egg Pillow Sandwiches.

The dainty sweets embrace the spring-theme wholeheartedly too. There is the Berry Pavlova with sprinkles of pistachio, a dainty pot of Butterscotch Mousse, and a delightful Earl Grey and Apple Cream éclair – which are all almost too pretty to eat.

Each set comes with your choice of fragrant Illy Coffee or Harney & Sons tea, which cuts through the fragrant-filled desserts satisfyingly.

Address: 2, Jalan Stesen Sentral, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours (for high tea): 2pm-6pm, Daily
Contact: 03-226 37434  afternoon high tea KL

5. Bottega Lounge at EQ – Italian-inspired afternoon tea

Afternoon High Tea KL - bottega kl high tea
Image credit: Bottega Lounge at EQ via Facebook

There is a particular luxurious and chic glow when you step foot into EQ Kuala Lumpur. Besides being a popular spot for staycays in the city, the hotel has a splashy interior with glass windows reflecting the city lights.

The hotel’s lounge – Bottega Lounge – is host to their afternoon tea sessions, with velvet-clad armchairs, dandy-esque carpets, and tinkering of the piano to create the perfect afternoon tea scenario.

Afternoon High Tea KL - bottega lounge
Image credit: Bottega Lounge at EQ via Facebook

Bottega’s tea menu ticks all the boxes for a perfect afternoon tea set. Their Italian-inspired Dolce Vita Afternoon Tea Set (RM198 for 2 pax) is a gorgeous line-up of pretty delights ranging from fluffy scones, mini tartlets, and panna cotta to Smoked Duck bagels, Quail Egg sandwiches, and quiches.

Afternoon High Tea KL - bottega food
Image adapted from: Bottega Lounge at EQ via Facebook

The experience doesn’t fall short when it comes to the beverages either. Bottega’s tea menu is impressively extensive with selections of infusions such as Cameronian Gold Blend, Gunung Chantik and Hibiscus Zest.

Address: EQ, Equatorial Plaza, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250, Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours (for high tea): Mon – Fri 12pm-5pm | Sat & Sun 12pm-2.30pm (1st session) 3pm-5pm (2nd session)
Contact: 012-278 9239  afternoon high tea KL

6. Nobu – Japanese savoury bites and mini desserts

Afternoon High Tea KL - nobu kl
Image credit: @nobu_kualalumpur via Instagram

Nobu is a swanky Japanese restaurant that excels in their Japanese-Peruvian inspired cuisine and stellar services. Its authentic wooden interior, which brings to mind Muji-inspired interiors, blends together Japanese elegance with contemporary simplicity.

Afternoon High Tea KL - nobu kl interior
Image adapted from: Nobu Kuala Lumpur Restaurant via Facebook

Nobu’s high tea menu is as exquisite as the usual English afternoon tea. Signature High Tea (RM118/pax) or Premium High Tea (RM148/pax) serves both sweet and savoury petite Nobu delicacies. Here, tiered stands are swapped for woodsy plates and boards for a more rustic charm.

Afternoon High Tea KL - nobu kl food
Image adapted from: Nobu Kuala Lumpur Restaurant via Facebook

Their high-tea menu is quintessentially Japanese with a twist or two – think Sashimi salads, a selection of sushi hand rolls, bite-sized Wagyu steak, Matsuhisa Shrimp with Caviar, and various tempuras. For their sweets, the highlights include Nobu’s Yuzu Cheesecake, Pinky Pavlova, Green Tea Kakigori, and White Chocolate Sphere.

To keep with the theme, Nobu’s afternoon tea set comes with a range of Japanese teas, matcha lattes – hot, cold or blended – or the usual coffee selection if you are looking for a caffeine kick.

Address: L4A-05, Level 4A Shoppes at Four Seasons Place Kuala Lumpur No, 145 Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours (for high tea): Sat – Sun 1pm-4pm (Closed on weekdays)
Contact: 03-2380 0028 | 019-389 5085

7. Delectable By Su – afternoon tea in a glasshouse cafe

Afternoon High Tea KL - delectable by su
Image credit: Delectable By Su HQ via Facebook

Delectable By Su is a cafe inside the Glasshouse, stands in the heart of Taman Seputeh, enclosed by undulating glass walls that allow endless streams of sunlight, and an oozing tranquil atmosphere from the surrounding lush greeneries.

Afternoon High Tea KL - delectable by su interior
Image credit: Jimmy Chan via Google Photos

Served in a charming house-shaped glass box, the Delectable Signature High Tea For Two (RM100/set) has teatime favourites such as burger sliders, stuffed croissants, brownies, macarons and cupcakes. 

The sugary treats are paired with a steaming pot of tea of your choice – opt to choose from a selection of drinks on their extensive menu too. 

Afternoon High Tea KL - delectable by su cakes
Image credit: Jimmy Chan via Google Photos

Apart from the afternoon tea set, the cafe offers a range of meals and a galore of desserts displayed enticingly at the front counter. 

Address: Level 2, Glasshouse at Seputeh 17, Lorong Syed Putra Kiri 50460, Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours (for high tea): 10am-10pm, Daily
Contact: 012-885 5280  afternoon high tea KL

8. Le Bar Cocktail & Stories at Sofitel – a French teatime

Afternoon High Tea KL - sofitel kl
Image credit: @sofitelkualalumpurdamansara via Instagram

Plush armchairs, marbled floors and cascading lights, Le Bar Cocktail and Stories feels like a comfortable and stylish living room of someone’s luxe home. The sleek lounge in Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara sets the tone for a luxurious afternoon tea, whether you are seated near the cocktail bar or in the cosy library area.

Afternoon High Tea KL - sofitel kl le bar
Image adapted from: Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara via Facebook

The stylish ambience of the space complements the La Boule En Rose Afternoon Tea (RM158 for 2 pax) perfectly. The set encompasses an ensemble of dainty French desserts – gorgeous Rose Macaroons, Lavender and Strawberry Tarts, along with rich Black Forest Mousse cakes and Raspberry Financiers.

Afternoon High Tea KL - sofitel kl high tea
Image credit: @tommyooi88 via Instagram  afternoon high tea KL

Do leave room for savoury treats on the middle tier as well. Find interesting ones like crab louie salad, crostinis topped with BBQ duck hash and foie gras, rolls of beetroot crepe filled with cured salmon and caviar, as well as some peppery sriracha egg cremeux.

These bites can be enjoyed alongside your choice of Dilmah tea or Illy coffee.

Address: 6 Jalan Damanlela, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours (for high tea): 2pm-5pm, Daily
Contact: 03-2720 6608

9. Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral – Alice-In-Wonderland-inspired tea time

Afternoon High Tea KL - aloft kl
Image credit: @aloftkls via Instagram

Quirky and eclectic, Aloft’s Awesome Afternoon Tea (RM138 for 2 pax) is a classically British fare, with adorable homemade pastries, hearty scones and eclairs, beautifully frosted cupcakes, and smoked salmon on toast, served in a baby blue birdcage.

Flower-adorned teapots and ornamented teacups that brim with tea add to the vibrant high tea spread.

Afternoon High Tea KL - aloft tea
Image credit: @aloftkls via Instagram

The afternoon tea session takes place at Aloft’s WXYZ bar, which has a setting that’s equally as vivid as the colour scheme of their afternoon tea set.

Address: 5, Jalan Stesen Sentral, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours (for high tea): Sat – Sun 2pm-5pm (Closed on weekdays)
Contact: 03-2723 1154

10. Kayra – modern Indian high tea

Afternoon High Tea KL - kayra high tea
Image credit: @kayrakeralacuisine via Instagram  afternoon high tea KL

A beacon of modern Indian cuisine, Kayra has been stealing the culinary spotlight since it opened its doors in 2019. While the restaurant has been intriguing and impressing foodies with their authentic Kerala cuisine, there’s more to their menu than just flavour and spice-packed  dishes – and that includes an afternoon high tea set with an Indian twist.

Afternoon High Tea KL - kayra high tea
Image credit: @kayrakeralacuisine via Instagram

Their Sweet and Savoury High Tea Set (RM195 for 2 pax) evokes the rich traditions ofIndian dining culture and flavours with a bold and innovative twist on the traditional afternoon tea.

Displayed on an exquisite-looking tier, the mouthwatering morsels offered are an amalgamation of British tea time snacks and Indian evening staples. The savoury bites include Masala Cheese Churros, Khaman Doukla which is steamed light cake with hints of coriander and chutney, and Pav Bhaji Fondue that’ll give your tastebuds a satisfying kick.

Afternoon High Tea KL - kayra food
Image adapted from: @kayrakeralacuisine via Instagram

The sweet delicacies are so diverse and extensive, you wouldn’t know which to start with. But we recommend the Indian Shortbread Cookies or Nankhatai which are melt-in-your-mouth goodness, the mini Gulab Jamun cakes that will delight the sweetest of tooths, and the Shrikhand parfait that will give you a taste of creamy yoghurt infused with sugar, spice and everything nice.

Most fittingly, the afternoon tea set is served alongside a pot of comforting Masala Chai that beautifully complements the assortment of treats.

Address: F-8, Bangsar Village, 1, Jalan Telawi 1, Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours (for high tea): 3pm-6pm, Daily
Contact: 017-215 7382

11. Willow Kuala Lumpur – tea in a wisteria-filled dining room

Afternoon High Tea KL - willow kl
Image credit: @willowkualalumpur via Instagram

Willow’s majestic space with cascading violet wisterias from the ceilings and plush scalloped chairs makes its space in W Kuala Lumpur a fine place to relax with an afternoon tea set.

Afternoon High Tea KL - willow kl wisteria
Image credit: @willowkualalumpur via Instagram

Featuring a simple but classy High Tea Set (RM150/pax), the treats on the menu do not stray far from a quality-refined one. 

Wittily resembling a willow tree, the tier-stand has golden “branches” that stretch out artfully, each presenting a display of desserts and bites so ravishing you’ll feel guilty for demolishing them. They include Truffle Egg Katsu Sando, Wagyu Beef Sliders, Lemon Entremet, Chocolate Bonbons, and Choux Pastries.

Afternoon High Tea KL - willow kl tea
Image credit: @willowkualalumpur via Instagram

While tea and coffee is included in the afternoon high tea set, you can opt for glasses of sparkling wine or juice with your meal too, for a dash of extravagance.

Address: The Intermark, 348, Jln Tun Razak, Kampung Datuk Keramat, 50400 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours (for high tea): Fri-Sun 3.30pm-5.30pm
Contact: 013-235 0542

Affordable high tea place in KL

From scones with lashings of cream and delectable finger sandwiches, to cups of piping hot Earl Grey tea and coffee, Kuala Lumpur is definitely not starved of options when it comes to classy afternoon tea spots that are also reasonably priced.

Take your pick from the list to spend an afternoon lounging in tea rooms over a good cuppa and delicious treats on picture-perfect platters.

To explore more eats in Malaysia, here are 10 aesthetic cafes in Shah Alam and 9 traditional bakeries in Penang.

Cover image adapted from: @karyakeralacuisine via Instagram, @thirty8kl via Instagram & @nobu_kualalumpur via Instagram

This article was first published on 10th May 2022. Last updated on 11th May 2023.

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