18 hours ago
We tried the world's highest garden-to-table afternoon tea on the 51st storey of a Singapore skyscraper
Your afternoon tea sessions just got majorly elevated with a brand new garden-to-table experience at Kaarla, a sleek restaurant that's perched way up high on the 51st floor of 1-Arden. From a lemon aspen tart with thyme, and basque cheesecake with berry coulis, to an edamame hummus tart and more – every item served is made using edible plants from 1-Arden's 'food forest'.
That goes for the complimentary tea as well, with choices like milky oolong with marigold, hojicha with mint and lemon myrtle, and jasmine tea with rose petals. But if you're more of a coffee person, opt for a latte, cappuccino, flat white or long black instead. Matcha lattes are also available with a $2 top-up.
In line with the botanical theme, it's no coincidence that the food set-up also resembles a Japanese zen garden – complete with real florals, bamboo and moss balls arranged artfully atop a bed of white 'pebbles' (beans) alongside the pretty morsels.
The freshly harvested herbs add a unique, refreshing balance to each item, and flavour-wise, we have zero complaints. However, with each item being so daintily bite-sized, portions are definitely smaller compared to other more substantial (but perhaps less well-crafted) high teas we've had. We left feeling slightly peckish still, having skipped lunch in preparation for this feast – perhaps some classic scones would be a good addition to satiate diners better. That said, the views from our window seat were unmatched – it's not every day that you get to gaze down upon the city from such a height.
This garden-to-table afternoon tea at 1-Arden is a permanent offering, available only from Mondays to Fridays between 2.30pm to 4.30pm. A set for two is priced at $75 ($37.50 per person), while additional guests in odd-numbered groups can join at $38 each. 1-Arden is located within CapitaSpring at 88 Market Street, just a two-minute walk from Raffles Place MRT station. Find out more and make your reservation here.