Afternoon Tea Indulgence at Banyan Tree Bangkok

Deciding whether an afternoon tea at Banyan Tree Bangkok is worth your time and money can be tricky, especially with so many options in Thailand’s bustling capital. We’ve gathered all the facts, including honest reviews, to help you figure out if this experience will suit your tastes and expectations.

What we love about this tour are its two unique settings—offering options for both scenic garden views and skyline vistas. We also appreciate that the price includes refills for tea or coffee for two people, giving you more bang for your buck. Lastly, the fact that it’s a relaxing break from busy sightseeing can make this a welcome respite during your city adventure.

On the flip side, a potential drawback is mixed reviews about quality and value. Some visitors have been disappointed, especially if they had high expectations for a luxury experience. This raises the point that while the price is reasonable, the actual quality might not always match the hype.

This experience is best suited for travelers looking for a charming, budget-friendly afternoon tea with flexible options—whether it’s a quick treat or a leisurely break in the heart of Bangkok.

Key Points

• Two restaurant options: ground-floor garden view and rooftop skyline views.
• Includes refillable tea and coffee, making the experience more generous.
• Affordable price point compared to luxury hotel standards.
• Mixed reviews highlight that quality can vary, so expectations should be realistic.
• No hotel transfer included, so plan your transportation.
• Ideal for those wanting a relaxing, scenic break without overspending.

Overview of the Experience

The Banyan Tree Bangkok offers more than just a stay; it’s a place to indulge in a classic high tea experience at a solid price. The tour centers around enjoying an afternoon tea set for two, with the choice of two very different atmospheres: one on the ground floor with views of lush tropical gardens, and another on the 61st floor with sweeping city vistas.

Given the 4-hour duration, it’s flexible enough to be a relaxed stop rather than a hurried affair. You’ll find the experience suitable for a couple’s treat, a catch-up with friends, or even a solo indulgence.

The Itinerary Explained

Stop 1: Vertigo & Moon Bar Rooftop

This spot, perched on the 61st floor, is famous for its panoramic views of Bangkok’s skyline. Serving high tea from Friday to Sunday, Vertigo TOO offers a luxurious setting that many associate with special occasions. However, some reviewers note that the experience at Vertigo can feel more exclusive and costly—one mentioned paying over $100 for what they called “poor afternoon tea,” which they felt didn’t match the price.

Expect to spend around two hours here, soaking in the cityscape while nibbling on your high tea. It’s a great choice for sunset views if you time your visit right, but keep in mind it might be more crowded and pricier than ground-floor options.

Stop 2: Romsai Restaurant at the Ground Floor

The ground-floor restaurant offers a more relaxed vibe with views of tropical gardens. Open daily, this setting is less formal but still offers a charming environment for enjoying your tea. Reviewers say it’s a good value, especially considering the price includes refills of tea or coffee, which is often not the case elsewhere.

This part of the tour allows you to unwind and enjoy a more traditional high tea experience without the bustling rooftop atmosphere or extra costs.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You’ll get one afternoon tea set for two people with a choice of tea or coffee, both refillable during your visit. It’s a straightforward, all-in-one package that offers decent value, especially if you’re not looking to splurge on luxury.

However, note that hotel transfers aren’t included, so you need to plan your own transportation. Most travelers find the location near public transport convenient, but if you’re relying on taxis or Grab, factor in that extra time and cost.

Experience Quality and Real Traveler Feedback

While the overall rating is 3/5 based on four reviews, the experiences vary. One reviewer harshly criticized the experience, calling it the “worst afternoon tea in Thailand,” mainly due to poor quality and high price—paying more than three times what they thought was fair. They also mentioned that they had to serve themselves after the event, which detracts from the sense of indulgence.

Conversely, another reviewer pointed out a misunderstanding about the set size and charges. They paid for three people but found the set was designed for only two, with extra charges for additional drinks. It highlights that clarity about what’s included is important for avoiding surprises.

From these reviews, it’s clear that your experience will largely depend on expectations. If you’re after a luxurious, carefully curated high tea, you might be disappointed. If you’re happy with a decent, scenic spot that offers good value and refills, this could work well.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Venue and Atmosphere

The ground-floor Romsai Restaurant provides a cozy, garden-view setting. You’ll be seated in a space that feels relaxed yet charming, perfect for conversations or a quiet moment. The atmosphere is casual but still refined enough to feel special.

Meanwhile, Vertigo TOO on the 61st floor feels more upscale, with a panoramic view of Bangkok’s glittering skyline. Expect a modern, sleek environment that’s perfect for those who want a picture-perfect setting.

Food and Beverage

The tea set typically includes finger sandwiches, sweet pastries, and scones—though some reviews suggest the quality may not always meet high expectations. The refillable tea or coffee feature is a highlight, as many similar experiences charge extra for additional drinks.

It’s worth noting that some reviewers found the food to be “poor,” and one mentioned serving themselves after the initial serving. This indicates that presentation and quality might vary, and it’s sensible not to expect a Michelin-star experience.

Pricing and Value

At $23.84 per person, including refills, this experience is quite affordable for Bangkok’s hotel standards. It offers a good balance between cost and experience, especially if you opt for the ground-floor restaurant.

However, the difference in quality and service between the two venues means your perception of value can fluctuate. The rooftop experience is more exclusive but comes at a higher price and might not always deliver the luxurious experience expected.

Convenience and Practicality

Since no hotel transfers are included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation. The location is near public transportation, which is helpful, but travelers should budget extra time and money accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This afternoon tea is ideal for those on a budget but wanting a scenic, relaxing break in Bangkok. It’s perfect if you want to try high tea without blowing your entire sightseeing budget or if you’re craving a quiet moment amid your busy itinerary.

Couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a casual, scenic dining experience will likely find this enjoyable. However, if you’re expecting a luxurious, high-end experience, you might want to look elsewhere or prepare for some variability.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This experience offers solid value for its price and a chance to unwind in style, whether on the lush garden terrace or the city’s skyline. The inclusion of refills makes it a more generous offering than many similar options in Bangkok, especially at this price point.

That said, the mixed reviews about food quality and service suggest that expectations should be realistic. It’s better suited for those who prioritize a pleasant setting and good value over perfection in food presentation or gourmet quality.

This tour is best for travelers seeking a relaxing, scenic, and affordable afternoon tea. It’s not a luxury indulgence, but it’s a charming way to take a break and enjoy some sweet treats amidst Bangkok’s vibrant atmosphere.

FAQ

Is hotel transfer included?
No, hotel transfers are not included, so plan your transportation to and from Banyan Tree Bangkok.

What are the restaurant options?
You can choose between the ground-floor Romsai Restaurant with garden views and the rooftop Vertigo TOO on the 61st floor with city views.

How long does the experience last?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours, split into two parts—about 2 hours at each venue.

What’s in the afternoon tea set?
While specific menu details aren’t provided, expect typical finger sandwiches, pastries, scones, and refillable tea or coffee.

Can I get refills of drinks?
Yes, both tea and coffee are refillable during your visit.

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
Most travelers can participate, but specific dietary preferences are not detailed, so check with the provider if needed.

What is the price per person?
The cost is around $23.84 per person, which includes the set and refills for two people.

What is the rating based on?
The overall rating is 3/5 based on four reviews, with some travelers expressing dissatisfaction about quality and value.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, with a full refund.

Is the experience suitable for special occasions?
It can be, especially if you’re after a relaxed, scenic break, but it may not meet the expectations of those seeking a high-end luxury experience.

This detailed review aims to give you an honest look at what to expect from the Banyan Tree Bangkok afternoon tea. Whether it’s the lush gardens or the panoramic city views, the experience offers a flexible, budget-conscious way to indulge in a classic pastime—just keep your expectations in check and enjoy the moment.