Cordis Hotel x Tai On Tea Restaurant Launch Art Journey '3 O'Clock' Exhibition
AM730 · 1 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong Cordis Hotel marks its 11th anniversary by joining forces with historic Tai On Tea Restaurant and rising food illustrator Kai, who earned a spot on Forbes Asia's "30 Under 30" list, for an immersive exhibition celebrating the beloved Hong Kong tradition of "3 o'clock tea." The Art Journey — "3 O'Clock" exhibition runs until October 31, 2026, across two locations in the Mong Kok and Yau Ma Tei area. The collaboration reimagines humble cha chaan teng classics such as milk sauce toast, red bean ice, and salted lemon as refined Western pastries, all while showcasing Kai's vibrant food illustrations that capture the essence of daily culinary moments.
Key Points
- The exhibition spans two venues: Hong Kong Cordis Hotel lobby on Shanghai Street in Mong Kok and Tai On Tea Restaurant on Canton Road in Yau Ma Tei
- Food illustrator Kai (@nomkakaii) gained recognition through her Instagram series "You Cook I Draw," where she sketches restaurant dishes on-site across the globe
- Cordis Hotel's signature creation is the Milk Sauce Toast Napoleon ($428 per pound), fusing Hong Kong peanut milk sauce into French pastry layers
- Tai On Tea Restaurant counters with creative items including Milk Sauce Egg Tart ($28) and Coconut Red Bean Ice Baked French Toast ($82)
- A boozy pairing option pairs the Milk Sauce Toast Napoleon with a Salted Lemon Gin & Tonic for $98
Why It Matters
This exhibition exemplifies how Hong Kong's intangible cultural heritage—the ritual of afternoon tea—continues to evolve while maintaining its emotional resonance with locals. By partnering emerging creative talent with established hospitality brands, the collaboration supports the next generation of Hong Kong artists while providing traditional businesses with fresh appeal to younger demographics. The initiative also positions Mong Kok as a cultural destination where culinary heritage and contemporary art intersect for both residents and visitors.
This exhibition exemplifies how Hong Kong's intangible cultural heritage—the ritual of afternoon tea—continues to evolve while maintaining its emotional resonance with locals. By partnering emerging creative talent with established hospitality brands, the collaboration supports the next generation of Hong Kong artists while providing traditional businesses with fresh appeal to younger demographics. The initiative also positions Mong Kok as a cultural destination where culinary heritage and contemporary art intersect for both residents and visitors.