One afternoon, I met up with Rieko for tea at TwentyEight, the bar and lounge on the 28th floor of the Conrad Tokyo. Everything is cute in Japan and afternoon tea at Conrads is no exception. Scones, macarons, delicate sandwiches, and tiny beef sliders were lined up like sushi, practically begging to be picked up with our fingers.
Now, when it comes to afternoon tea, do you go straight for the most tempting treat first, or save it for last? I’m a save-the-best-for-last kind of person. Risky, I know—what if you fill up too early? But I trust my appetite. I always finish.
Conrad Tokyo has made a name for itself with its afternoon tea service. It’s not just tea and snacks, it’s a whole event, and an experience that’s worth adding to your Tokyo itinerary. The offerings often change with the seasons and are presented around playful, elegant themes. Think floral motifs in spring or matcha-infused treats in early summer. The little morsels are served on a sleek, flat glass platter, instead of the traditional tiered stands. Service is precise but warm, and the presentation is always photo-worthy.
The setting at TwentyEight is as much a part of the experience as the food. From the floor-to-ceiling windows, we looked out over Hamarikyu Gardens and Tokyo Bay. A live jazz musician played in the background, adding to the relaxed elegance. Most of the guests were Japanese women in soft, pastel outfits. The whole lounge felt a bit like the inside of a high-rise dollhouse, but in the best possible way.
The vibe reminded us of the New York Bar at the Park Hyatt in Shinjuku and we just couldn’t stop thinking about how incredible this place must be at night, with the city glowing below. Sadly, we didn’t get the chance to return for drinks, but next time, Conrad, I’m coming for cocktails.
A few things to know before you go:
The dress code is smart casual. You don’t need to wear heels, but avoid anything too relaxed like flip-flops or gym gear.
Reservations are essential, especially on weekends or during special themed afternoon tea campaigns.
Afternoon tea is served daily in the TwentyEight lounge, with seatings typically in the early afternoon.
Read my guide to afternoon tea >>
