The Dilmah Real High Tea Challenge may have concluded in Sri Lanka earlier this month but we can still marvel at the versatility of real tea right here in Singapore. Ten independent cafes have joined Dilmah Tea in its mission to reignite our love for tea with exclusive tea-inspired High Tea menus. Each establishment has placed their best foot forward, pairing their delicious treats with Dilmah Exceptional premium tea series in hopes of winning an all-expense paid trip to Sri Lanka in November.
House of Commons, located on the quiet stretch of Owen Road, is one of them. Dressed up in the owner’s personal collection of framed floor mats, memories from his time in Sydney to his very own masterpiece, it is quaint, homely corner acting as an escape from the hustle and bustle streets away.
They are known for their darker roasted Italian-styled espressos, which have been responsible for waking up the nearby offices and hospitals since it opened. There are also Nutella Milkshakes, Pink Lady’s Pledge (iced rose milk) and a wide selection of gourmet sandwiches or handmade cakes to go with them.
Dilmah Tea-Inspired High Tea Sets
From savoury to sweet, House of Commons presents a total of six sets for your choosing. There is the classic pairing of Pistachio Shortbread Cookie and English breakfast for the traditionalist as well as Seafood Quiche with Gently Minty Green Tea.
The eternal summer that is Singapore calls for something fresh and it does not get better than a Peach Gateau mid-afternoon. This perfectly done light, fluffy sponge filed with cream and peaches was paired with the bright, tart Acai Berry and Pomegranate Tea. I adored the subtle vanilla note that comes after, lingering, reminding me of a summer in France.
Originally due to a chemical reaction between vinegar, buttermilk and the red anthocyanin in cocoa (for that moist, fluffy base), this chocolate cake has gotten a lot of hype thanks to its burgundy red colour of late. Also, cheese. Who can deny their love of cream cheese frosting? Served slightly warm here, it was paired with the Rose with French Vanilla. It is an elegant and sophisticated choice and practically the poster child for the term “High-Tea”.
Those looking for something more filling can look forward to their Seafood Quiche. Baked in a soft puff pastry shell, it is filled with spinach and smoked salmon. The natural oils of the smoked salmon goes well with the Spearmint in the Gentle Minty (Sencha) Green Tea. It acts well to refresh your palette with every sip, and gets you longing for the next bite. A western version of Ochazuke, perhaps.
Talking about comfort foods, the Almond Kheer was a clear winner in the list of six. A kheer is a South Asian rice pudding made with ghee, jaggery (a traditional Indian cane sugar), milk (can be full cream or coconut) and a mix of aromatic spices. Popular choices include cardamom, cinnamon and saffron.
At the café, the owner took into consideration the Singaporean palette. True, not many can take strong spices off the bat. He opts for less ghee, fresh milk, crunchy almond flakes and cardamom. The flavours still shines through, especially when paired with the Spiced Chai.
Made from scratch, it is a dish filled with love. It may look simple but it takes hours to make – all of which is worth it. I polished two bowls of this easily, wishing I could have this for breakfast. Though, the owner educates me that this is a dessert that is eaten during festivals, the texture reminds me of the gooey, savoury Cantonese porridge I wake up to on Dim Sum mornings.
Of House of Commons
It may be a little out of the way for some of us, but it is part of its beauty. It is a great place to chill out and have a good chat with your friends, work out of the office or, if you looking for a chat, the owner is more than happy to share his passion for cooking, art and wine (lots and lots of it).
House of Commons is located at 138 Owen Road, Singapore 218939. They are opened on weekdays from 0730AM to 0500PM and weekends from 0800AM to 0600PM. For more information, please visit their website or FB.
About the Writer
Jessica is a young lady of many obsessions. She gets herself into everything ranging from the latest in the monochrome fashion world (she only wears black, and sometimes, white) to convincing the masses that Community is the best TV series ever made.
Currently, she enjoys looking like Sailor Mercury had a baby with Wednesday Addams.
