Tea Chapter: Experience the Art of Chinese Tea in Chinatown
In Singapore, Chinese teas such as jasmine and pu-erh are often served at Chinese restaurants. This can inspire a deeper interest in Chinese tea culture.
Tea Chapter offers an ideal setting — a tea house where guests can experience traditional tea appreciation through an authentic Chinese tea ceremony.
Traditional Tea House in Chinatown
Where Queen Elizabeth II Enjoyed Tea
Located along Neil Road on the edge of Chinatown, just steps from Maxwell Food Centre, a historic shophouse is home to a traditional Chinese tea house once visited by Queen Elizabeth II.
The first floor houses a retail shop selling tea leaves and teaware, while the second and third floors serve as a cafe.
The cafe features 3 distinct seating styles: traditional Chinese table seating, Korean-style recessed floor seating, and Japanese-style floor seating.
For a room charge of $10, seating is also available in the “Queen’s Room,” where Queen Elizabeth II once enjoyed tea.
Every corner is filled with vintage charm, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Now it’s time to experience the art of traditional Chinese tea.
The Art of Chinese Tea
Over 40 Varieties of Tea
The experience begins with choosing a tea.
The selection includes more than 40 varieties, such as white, green, oolong, black, dark, and floral teas.
For those unsure where to start, standout options include Imperial Golden Cassia — a premium oolong tea once enjoyed by Queen Elizabeth II — and Silver Hair Jasmine, known for its elegant fragrance.
Chinese Tea Ceremony Guide
Once the teaware is set out, a tea master brews the tea while explaining the steps and etiquette of the traditional Chinese tea ceremony.
Steps
- Warm the teaware: Pour hot water from the teapot into the cups, then discard the water.
- Rinse the tea leaves: Place the tea leaves in the teapot, pour in hot water, and immediately discard this first rinse.
- Brew the tea: Steep the first infusion for 25 seconds, adding 5 seconds for each subsequent infusion.
- Drink the tea: Take three small sips.
After the introduction, the tea can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace. A pot of hot water is provided for refills, allowing the leaves to be infused multiple times.
Tea Time Delights
The menu also features dim sum and sweet treats that pair perfectly with tea — all at reasonable prices.
One highlight is the Peach Bun (shou tao), a steamed bun shaped like a peach that symbolises longevity.
Another highlight is Eight Treasures Tea, a blend of tea leaves with herbs, flowers, and dried fruits. Served in a clear glass teapot, it allows the beauty of the leaves to be enjoyed as they unfurl.
Final Thoughts
Stepping away from the hustle and bustle of Chinatown, this tranquil corner offers a rare opportunity to slow down and savour the fragrant depths of Chinese tea.
For those seeking an authentic cultural experience, the traditional art of Chinese tea is a perfect way to spend an afternoon in Singapore.
Tea Chapter
AD
