Hi Tea's Durian Jasmine Tea Taste Test: Nice Or Not?
We sample the local tea brand's, gulp, D24 Premium Durian Jasmine Tea.
We love eating durian — but drinking it? We’re not so sure. Local teahouse Hi Tea has introduced a D24 Premium Durian Jasmine Tea ($6.80) in conjunction with the opening of its second outlet at Northpoint City, Yishun (the first shop is at Far East Plaza). This drink, apparently the “first durian tea in the world”, features 40g of blended D24 durian puree and cold-brewed jasmine tea, topped with a layer of rich durian cream made by whizzing fresh cream and more durian puree together. The durians are sourced from "several vendors, including some in Geylang". The owners even let the durian vendors try the beverage and got their stamp of approval. But is the drink yummy? Well, each cup is made to order and we were advised to sip the cream first, then use the straw to finish the remaining tea. See next pic for our verdict.
Like Cheese Tea, But Yummier
So we did and our lips met the top layer of thick durian cream, a decadent and luscious punch of pongy sweetness, like a liquid durian cream puff filling. As for the jasmine tea and durian puree mixture beneath, it served as a refreshing counterpoint to the cream. The jasmine flavour was not overpowered by the durian. Strangely, everything went well together: the sweet, pungent, creamy fruit, and the light, floral tea. This tea shop does not offer pearls, but more atas toppings like chia seeds ($0.70). But we think the Durian Jasmine Tea is good enough on its own to not need any embellishments.
Hi Tea's Towkays: Lucas Lee (left) and Darren Wu
Former bank analyst and broker Lucas manages daily operations and finances for this local tea biz. Meanwhile, his partner Darren is a serial entrepreneur — Hi Tea is his third business.
Far East Plaza Outlet
D24 Premium Durian Jasmine Tea available at Hi Tea. Two branches including #01-14B Far East Plaza, 14 Scotts Rd, S228213. Open daily. Mon Fri 11am-10pm; Sat-Sun 11am-10.30pm. Last orders at closing. www.hiteabeverages.sg.
Photo: Hi Tea Facebook
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