Continuation from the first part : Cameron Highlands - OK Tuck & Strawberry Park Resort ....
The simple 2 pages-Tea Menu from The Smokehouse .....I've been to Cameron for a good many times over the course of my life. Yet the thought of spending hours appreciating a good cup of tea, paired with fresh warm scones did not cross my mind, as opposed to the more prominent steamboat meal, or DIY BBQ dinner.
Sip on your cup of English tea amidst the lush, green garden .....Since this visit to Cameron was solely for work (initially, of course), we skipped all of the tourist destinations, namely Cactus/Rose/Flowers/Butterfly/etc Farms, the night market at Brinchang, and even the perennial favourite spot of many; the Tea plantations.
Classic, charming Tudor design dominated the cottage-like settlement, exuding such warmth and cozy feeling you'll feel as though you're transported to 60 years ago (the Hotel opened in 1937) !!!Hence we dropped the thought of scuffling with the crowd, but instead indulge in a leisurely session of tete-a-tete over high tea, at The Smokehouse Hotel & Restaurant at Tanah Rata.
One can even choose to sit beside the fireplace ....The Smokehouse Hotel & Restaurant (www) overlooks the golf course, and right along the main road between Tanah Rata and Brinchang towns.
Ornaments, chandelier, candle stands and blowing yer own trumpet? :)
The restaurant is divided into several sections, each with its own theme & design, from a candle-lit dining area to lounge area with plush sofas & fireplace.
Hot Chocolate (RM14.50) - Very thick & rich, and English Tea (RM8.90) - Complete with filter!
Cappucino (RM14.50) and Cafe Latte (RM15)
Devonshire Cream Tea - Pot of Tea & Two Warm Scones with Homemade Strawberry Preserve and Cream (RM25)It was drizzling slightly that evening. The cool climate, accentuated with droplets of water painted an idyllic & soothing picture of the classic cottage, from the exterior. And to cap the experience off, we proceeded indoors, and were courteously ushered to our seats at the verandah, with natural sunlight over our heads, merely barricaded by the glass ceiling.
The warm, crumbly scones were indeed magnificient stuff. Soft, moist and crumbly, with a moderately rich, buttery accent. The base of the scones was slightly crisp, and the accompanying homemade strawberry preserve complemented the scones almost to a tee. Not cloyingly sweet, with real strawberries, they sell the jam at RM19.80 per jar as well.
Of course, paying a premium price for the set which nets you 2 scones and a pot of tea may be more of a luxury than a routine tea time.
Nostalgic influences at large. Reminiscence of the ancient British era.Aside from their scones, they serve various cakes, sandwiches, and savouries for tea time as well. For main meals, they dish out various delightful dishes, from steaks to pies, as well as salads and soups. But bear in mind, a complete meal (with appetizers, main, desserts and wine) may set you back for more than RM100 per person!
The lush gardens - where else can one embrace the fresh, cool air while sipping on a cup of tea, with a good book at hand?Since the rain got heavier by the minutes, we stayed as long as possible, soaking in the ambience, and taking life a step at a time.
I REALLY would treasure any form of rest and relaxation as of now ......
Location : The Smokehouse Hotel & Restaurant @ PO Box 77, Tanah Rata, 39000 Cameron Highlands. Tel No : 605-491 1215.
