Observed by numerous cultures across the globe, Lunar New Year marks the end of winter and is a traditional time of celebration and joy. In 2024, the new lunar year begins on 10 February and signifies the start of the Year of the Dragon. In Chinese culture, the dragon represents prosperity, strength, and good luck, meaning 2024 is set to be a brilliant year for all. And how better to get things off to a great start than with afternoon tea at the luxurious Pan Pacific London hotel?

Located a stone’s throw away from Liverpool Street station, Pan Pacific London has curated a brand new limited edition afternoon tea experience in collaboration with China Town’s Cantonese-style bun specialist, Bun House, especially for Lunar New Year. Available from 8 February, the celebratory tea will be served until 25 March at the hotel’s Straits Kitchen.

The tea kicks off with indulgent siu mai baskets featuring lobster, Keltic scallop and orange trout-filled rolls, and Sarawak pepper beef and beancurd-filled rolls. These are followed by an exquisite take on the classic scone, which includes four buns drawing on the experience of Bun House co-founder and chef Z He to thrill the senses. The collection includes Bun House’s signature pork bun with toasted cumin, chilli, and garlic first, followed by a sweet custard-filled bun in the shape of a mandarin, symbolising good luck in Chinese culture, alongside a black sesame walnut scone served with kaya jam.

If it’s elegant patisserie you’re after, Pan Pacific London’s Executive Pastry Chef Francesco Maninno has crafted the perfect finale to your afternoon tea. The delectable morsels include a white peach and milk Oolong lantern, a pineapple and Szechuan pepper wonton, and a crispy soy and sesame umami sandwich. Bring out your phones to capture the theatrical moment when matcha and red date iced mochi are served over smoking dry ice.

Complementing the stunning food is a warming cup of Newby Tea’s Chinese New Year tea blended exclusively for Pan Pacific London. The robust second-flush Assam black tea is infused with subtle almond flavours for a sweet aftertaste. Alternatively, raise a toast to the new year with a glass of Chinese sparkling wine from the hotel’s impressive selection, including Great Wall Chateau Sungod Blanc de Blancs 2006.​​ Chin Chin!

If the enticing menu isn’t reason enough to book your Lunar New Year afternoon tea now, guests partaking in the experience or visiting Bun House in Chinatown will receive a stamp on their special dragon pass which will unlock a host of exclusive rewards, including a chance to win an overnight stay at the luxury hotel.

The Pan Pacific London x Bun House Lunar New Year Afternoon Tea Collection is available from 8 February 2024 priced at £68pp. Book your table at panpacificlondon.com.