ENGLISH afternoon tea and mooncakes share a common spirit of connection and occasion.
They complement each other in Penang Marriott Hotel’s latest seasonal offerings, the “Tè Del Pomeriggio” teatime experience and “Moonlit Heritage, Timeless Connections” mooncake collection.
The story begins at Italian restaurant Kucina, where the quintessentially British ritual takes a unique turn.
“We reinterpreted some of the traditional savouries and sweets through an Italian lens.
“Though it’s still presented on a classic three-tier stand, there are Italian flavour profiles and preparation styles instead,” head pastry chef Aaron Lee explained.
Items like the Roasted Cherry Tomato and Bocconcini Bruschetta, Seared Tuna with Truffle Aioli Bruschetta and Mushroom Ragout Sandwich reflect foundational flavour pairings in Italian cuisine.
“Bocconcini is a creamy, fresh mozzarella cheese that goes nicely with bright, juicy tomatoes.
“Truffles and mushrooms have long been prized for their rich, earthy aromas and are deeply rooted in many recipes,” Lee continued.
Other savoury items such as Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Sandwich, Chicken Puffs, Spinach Quiche and Crab Cakes offer a continental counterpoint.
Among the sweets is the Vanilla and Lemon Tart with zesty citrusy notes evoking the sun-kissed terraces of Sicily.
There is also Matcha Gianduja Choux, which plays the astringency of green tea against the rich sweetness of gianduja, a classic Piedmontese chocolate-hazelnut blend.
Strawberry Shortcake as well as Cranberry and Vanilla Scones, served with orange marmalade, strawberry jam and clotted cream, ensure its British heritage is not entirely overlooked.
A selection of eight premium TWG teas complete the leisurely treat.
Guests can also opt for freshly brewed Italian Segafredo coffee.
The set is available from 2.30pm to 5.30pm daily and is priced at RM98 per person.
The price for a free flow of sangria, prosecco or artisanal cocktails is RM198.
Meanwhile, a playful expression of Chinese tradition and heritage can be found at The Great Room, the hotel’s lobby-level bar and lounge.
The exclusive mooncake set brings a touch of refinement to cherished flavours.
Both the Pandan Paradise with Golden Yolk and Imperial White Lotus with Golden Yolk feature the timeless sweet-and-salty flavour texture.
The Sweet Harmony Honey Longan is more contemporary with delicate floral notes and earthy sweetness, while the Nutritious Red Dates reimagines a traditional ingredient for modern palates.
Beyond the flavours, what’s striking is the gift box celebrating Penang’s cultural, architectural and natural heritage.
On the front are motifs of the pokok pinang − the tree that gave the state its name − and other familiar scenes.
Flip the case open and it reveals four bespoke “drawers”, each depicting a local landmark through iridescent, gold detailing.
Among them are the Penang Bridge and heritage shophouses, the former symbolising connections and journeys, and the latter reflecting the distinctive architecture of George Town.
There is also the trishaw, a vital means of transport for generations.
Completing the quartet is the hotel itself, now the tallest landmark on Gurney Drive.
Hotel general manager Michael Farag said the design allowed the box to become a keepsake long after the last mooncake has been enjoyed.
“It’s a celebration of place and culture.
Every detail was thoughtfully curated to honour Penang’s most beloved symbols.
“This is our way of celebrating the place we proudly call home and share its spirit with the world,” said Farag.
The “Moonlit Heritage, Timeless Connections” mooncake set is priced at RM238 per box and is available until Sept 25.
Enjoy an early bird price of RM198 for purchases before Sept 10. All prices are nett.
KUCINA, Level 2, Penang Marriott Hotel, Gurney Drive, George Town, Penang. (Tel: 04-566 1888/ 012-881 5766.) Business hours: Noon to 11.30pm daily.
This is the writer’s personal observation and is not an endorsement by StarMetro.
