House at Dempsey

8D Dempsey Road 6475 7787 | dempseyhouse.com

Teatime: Fridays from 3 to 5.30pm Tucked in a quiet corner of Dempsey Hill, this cosy restaurant offers a home-away-from-home dining experience. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, with natural lighting filtering through and lush greenery surrounding the alfresco area. Afternoon tea ($30 per adult) is a hit with both locals and expats; all tables were taken up when we arrived at 3.30pm, so it’s probably best to book in advance!

There isn’t a plethora of teas to choose from – only four varieties – but refills are included. I opted for Muah Muah, a chocolate and raspberry infusion that paired well with the sweet treats. My mum chose the signature homemade ginger tea, warm, herbal and altogether comforting.

Food-wise, the spread boasts around 20 items with a good balance of savoury and sweet. My picks? The super-tender ginger chicken, which went amazingly with its accompanying crispy papadum; the light and tasty mini squid-ink pizza; dainty passionfruit macarons; and the moist ondeh-ondeh cake, packed with gula melaka. This buffet is no run-of-the-mill high tea: you’ll find interesting local-inspired bites, including a wacky curry chocolate brownie. Tastiest treat: Hands down, the matcha cranberry scones. Served with clotted cream and berry jam, these bite-sized gems were spot-on in terms of size, texture and taste. Buttery and tender with a distinct matcha flavour, this is one for all green tea fans! Psst! It’s half-price for children from six to 12 years of age, and free for those below six.