The "Cocoa Decadence" World Chocolate Day celebration High Tea at InterContinental Wellington offers a decadent fusion of flavours that blend elegance and chocolate inspired innovation.
A beautifully presented kahlua spiked tiramisu lead the way for what would be a journey of discovery, trying new combinations and unexpected textures inspired by chocolate, crafted especially for this event.
The savoury menu had me sold at "japanese mayo" and it was perfectly paired with a tender and tasty beef skewer. It's actually so hard to choose what my favourite savoury item was as there were some fierce contenders - the crispy fried lemongrass chicken in a unique cinnamon brioche, the Mantou bun with cucumber and a spicy anchovy sambal was an innovative twist on a cucumber finger sandwich with a divinely sweet bun. The weirdest but most memorable item was the lemon and dill prawn in a crisp, spiced chocolate tart shell. I would have loved a heftier kick of citrus but the creaminess of the prawn against the tart shell texture provided a surprising yet harmonious combination.
The highlight of the sweet tier for me was the tiramisu, kahlua with dutch cocoa provided a sophisticated twist on the classic dessert. The ivory chocolate strawberry shortcake was a delightful variation with its delicate sponge and creamy, but tart, strawberry filling and I adored the presentation of the Valrhona Jivara milk chocolate fudge cake. The lashings of ganache were popular with Miss 7 who accompanied me for this event, and who was treated to her very own kids version of Cocoa Decadence.
Finally, to the beverage offering. This high tea service included the Chocolatini Cocktail that blended vodka, housemade chocolate sauce, crème de cacao, and Baileys, offering a luxurious accompaniment to the meal. For those of us who preferred, the mocktail version was just as divine. InterContinental Wellington offers up a select range of T2 teas as an accompainment to the High Tea. My pick this time was the T2 Chai and with a dash of milk, this provided a warming and fragrant option to balance the richness of the dishes.
I am always struck by how generous the menu is that is offered at the InterContinental and this chocolate inspired number was no different. Overall, celebrating World Chocolate Day with InterContinental Wellington's Cocoa Decadence High Tea was a memorable and indulgent experience in the heart of New Zealand's capital city.
Cocoa Decadence is available for a limited time from 7th - 14th July 2024. Book online at InterContinental Wellington.
Shop decadent boutique tea and beautiful fine china tea cups and saucers from our Little Tea Shop. Book our High Tea at home service or join us at our public monthly afternoon tea events. Be set for the finest of tea parties or gift the people you love something they will treasure. Shop online from the High Tea Honeys today.
