#Japan #Tokyo #Afternoon Tea #Mesm Tokyo #Tokyo National Museum

Mesm Tokyo and the Tokyo National Museum: A Colorful Journey

Mesm Tokyo, a modern luxury hotel under the Autograph Collection, situated in the lively coastal area of Tokyo, is set to unveil its second collaboration with the Tokyo National Museum. This unique venture features a special afternoon tea program titled "Tokyo Waves - Colorful Asia" at the hotel's 16th-floor bar and lounge, Whisk. Running from October 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027, the program promises to offer guests an exquisite culinary experience inspired by vibrant Asian art.

This collaborative effort follows the success of their inaugural pairing in 2025, which focused on the immersive experience of visiting the museum through cuisine. This time, the spotlight is on the autumn exhibition "A Journey Through Asia: Colorful Asia," running from September 15 to November 8, 2026, at the museum's Asian Gallery. The artworks displayed will influence the culinary creations, with each dish reflecting the vivid colors and textures found in the exhibition.

The afternoon tea begins with an appetizer that vividly represents the architectural beauty of the Asian Gallery, designed by renowned architect Yoshirō Taniguchi. The dish is a carefully crafted two-layer plate adorned with eggplant and black sesame mousse, mimicking the gallery's facade. This visually stimulating starter incorporates elements that evoke the green surroundings of Ueno Park through a pairing mocktail, creating a harmonious balance between architecture and nature.

The main plate showcases an array of eight savory and sweet items, each representing diverse materials and artworks featured in the exhibition, utilizing flavors inspired by gemstones like agate and jade, as well as traditional textiles. Each component is beautifully crafted into spherical forms, enhancing the transparent and glossy appearance of each color. Beyond aesthetic allure, the culinary experience focuses on the texture and flavor dynamics, inviting guests to engage with the multifaceted beauty of Asian art.

The intricate presentation weaves together the beauty of the museum's collection, the allure of Showa-era modernism, and the dialogue between architecture and nature, all within a singular narrative. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the colorful world of flavors and aesthetics on offer as they explore the connection between art and cuisine.

Menu Highlights

The afternoon tea includes both appetizers and desserts inspired by various artworks:
1. Appetizer: Eggplant and black sesame mousse formed into the shape of the gallery's exterior, complemented by a refreshing dashi jelly.
2. Mocktail: A soothing Mozzarella Melon Soda, reflecting the café culture of 1968, when the Asian Gallery opened.
3. Main Dishes: A selection of delights such as:
- Nasi Goreng Muffin: The only savory item, infused with traditional Indonesian flavors.
- Honey Lemon Mousse: A refreshing dessert based on an ancient Egyptian baboon statue.
- Almond Ice Cream: A cold treat inspired by a Qing Dynasty incense burner.
- Peach and White Tea PandoGéne: A delectable confection featuring peach, a symbol of longevity.
- Walnut Cheesecake: A savory cheesecake wrapped in a black crumble, reflecting the essence of Chinese walnut production.
- Mango Pudding: Vibrantly yellow, this pudding embodies the southern mango's essence
- Jasmine Jelly: A refreshing jelly inspired by jasmine tea's historical journey to China.
- Pomegranate Mousse: This vibrant dessert captures the beauty of a pomegranate motif.

As guests take their culinary journey, they can enjoy the exclusive palette mocktails, allowing for personal flavor combinations through layered syrups.

Practical Information

• - Period: October 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027 (closed on December 31 and January 1)
• - Time Slots: Weekdays at 14:00, 14:30, 15:00, and 18:00; weekends at 14:00, 14:30, 15:00
• - Location: Whisk, 16th Floor, Mesm Tokyo
• - Price: ¥7,000 per person (inclusive of tax and service charge)
• - Cancellation Policy: 50% fee for cancellations on the previous day, 100% on the day
• - Reservation Link: Reserve Here

This culturally and artistically engaging afternoon tea provides an exceptional opportunity to savor the rich flavors and stories behind the artworks while enjoying the luxurious atmosphere that Mesm Tokyo is known for.