Peony and the Rainbow: May 2012

Sunday, May 6, 2012

Chapels on Whatley

Bonjour! It was a gloomy Sunday last week with rain clouds hovering at the edge of a potentially sunny day. But that didn't stop me from having a great and productive day. Tim and I decided to go to Maylands for a treat. We had a simple Korean lunch with plenty of green tea to accompany at Eki Bento.

Our Bibimbap with beef slices.

Cute stone tea set and miniature soy sauce jug.

The original plan to have lunch and go to Mrs. S for tea and coffee but as soon as we got there I spotted another cafe that people have been raving about, Chapels On Whatley. The entrance was inviting with red umbrellas and Chinese lanterns and of course I couldn't say no.

The interior was even more impressive. Colourful lanterns and parasols provided a cheerful boost against the rich, dark wooden environment that mustered one's imagination of 1920s Shanghai. The cuisine was a fantastically balanced fusion of English and Asian elements. This included 60 varieties of tea served in beautiful Wedgewood and Royal Albert fine china. I was so excited when I saw the vintage china (been dreaming of owning these tea sets for ages). The service was great and the staff were very friendly and helpful. There is plenty of room to sit but on busier days (weekends) its best to book. We sat in the courtyard which featured bamboo pots with Zen garden ornaments and a cluster of red umbrellas.

Tea for sale. Tea tasting sessions are available for booking as well.

Courtyard leading to the antique furniture/gift store.

The famous Kimchi Pancake at last I get to try you. It is a savoury treat I did not regret.

French tea served in delicate china by Royal Albert: creme de la creme hints vanilla and floral bouquets. This is by far my favourite tea.

Art by Jin Chuan brings a modern element to the cafe.

They sell beautiful soaps too.

One of the pretty parasols sold by the cafe's antique and gift store

Tea again! This is the English Rose in another beautiful mismatched china set by Royal Albert.

Chilled Brûlée with berries and cream

I felt like I was invited to the Mad Hatter's Oriental Tea Party in a mystical Zen Wonderland. I have already conjured up images of a quirky birthday party here in high tea fashion oh lala! I can't wait for another visit.