Recently I indulged in the High Tea Experience at Robata Bar and Grill at Resorts World, Birmingham. It is a fusion Asian themed restaurant with a breathtaking view of the Pendigo Lake. With high ceilings and full-length glass windows with a lake view, the minimalistic décor is cozy and elegant with a serene and calm ambience which goes well with the cuisine and experience they have tried to create. What’s different about this place is the great fusion menu of European, Australian and Pan-Asian delicacies which compliments the unique and delicate beverage options. I went for the high tea experience with my husband as a date. The food, the atmosphere, and the ambience made it a memorable experience which I wanted to share with you all.
The high tea comes at the cost of £19.50 for the non-alcoholic option and £24.50 with cocktails per person. They also have champagne and other options available. The menu is extensive and has a right balance of sweet and savory bites with a Pan Asian twist to the delicacies.
FIRST WAVE – Served with Ginger and Lemon Iced Tea
• Robata Grilled Chicken Yakatori Tender pieces of chicken thigh in a fragrant soy marinade
• Prawn and Tofu Ball Minced king prawn and tofu with chilli and ginger in a panko bread crumb coating
• Duck Long Bao Shredded Cantonese duck leg with hoisin wrapped in a soft steamed bun
SECOND WAVE – Served with your choice of Nespresso coffee or Newby of London tea
• Avocado Maki Roll Traditional soft rice wrapped in nori and filled with avocado and wasabi
• Squid Ink Tapioca Cracker with Beetroot Cured Salmon and Grapefruit Crisp tapioca cracker with beetroot cured salmon and grapefruit gel
• Yuzu and Lime Curd Tartlet Graham cracker tart filled with sweet yuzu lemon and lime curd
• Hazelnut and Chocolate Delice A rich hazelnut and chocolate layered mousse cake glazed with fine chocolate
• Spiced Strawberry Trifle Layered trifle with compressed intense strawberries and spiced biscuit crumb
• Orange Scone with Orange Curd Orange blossom scone with orange curd
I am a vegetarian so the first wave options which are offered for the high-tea could not be consumed by me. But when I told them about this, the staff brought out a special alternative first wave options for me and they were heavenly. They also do make special alternatives for people who may be allergic to certain types of food items. So don’t be disappointed if you can’t have a few options on the menu.
We enjoyed the high tea experience at this venue. Out of the tantalizing spread of delicious food and beverages, I really enjoyed the ginger and lemon ice tea. It was divine, refreshing and flavorsome. I also loved their dimsums and cocktails. From the second wave of sugary treats I enjoyed the Hazelnut and Chocolate Delice and Yuzu and Lemon Curd Tarlet. They were rich, succulent and, unlike any other dessert I’ve ever had. Since the second wave of the course is filled with sugary goodness, the Nespresso coffee, and the Newby tea are perfect accompaniments. The coffee is a bit strong and bitter which balances out the sweetness from the desserts. The tea is light, refreshing and flavorful since it has loose tea leafs which is just wonderful. And the best part about the whole experience is the fresh, handcrafted food.
Overall it was an evening well spent. I loved the atmosphere and the attentiveness of the staff. I also liked that fact that this is not like a standard English high tea experience with sandwiches and pastries in the menu. What makes this experience unique is the fusion of Asian food into the high tea. Even if you are not a tea person, there are numerous other options you can choose from.
I highly recommend the high tea at Robata Bar & Grill. It’s a must try experience even if you have tried high tea before, as it’s very different from the others.
Have you ever had a unique high tea experience? Let me know in the comments below.
