Step into a dining experience where nothing is quite what it seems. At Sofitel Singapore City Centre, the classic afternoon tea ritual is getting a playful, almost mischievous makeover. From 15 March to 15 June 2026, its stylish dining space 1864 transforms into a carnival of culinary illusions, where familiar treats are reimagined with surprising twists, theatrical flair, and just the right touch of whimsy.

Forget dainty finger sandwiches and predictable pastries. This is afternoon tea as art. Inspired by the magic and spectacle of a carnival, the experience leans into trompe-l’œil, where what you see isn’t quite what you get. Think playful deception, but elevated: flavours are refined, presentation is polished, and every bite is designed to spark curiosity.

The “sweet” selection opens the show with creations that look indulgent but tell a more complex story. A standout is the chocolate “burger”—a glossy, cocoa-crafted illusion hiding layers of mango passion jelly, shiso, and sesame brioche. It looks like fast food, but tastes like a tropical dessert dream.

Then come polenta “chips,” hand-cut and infused with lemon and vanilla, served with raspberry ketchup and a sprinkle of fleur de sel—equal parts nostalgic and unexpected. Even the cheeky “RFC fried chicken” drumstick plays tricks on you, revealing itself as a white chocolate truffle coated in cereal crunch. Each piece walks a fine line between sweet and savoury, keeping your palate guessing.

Just when you think you’ve figured it out, the savoury course flips the script again. Churros arrive, but instead of sugar, they’re dusted with eggs and caviar. A popcorn-topped truffle corn cone delivers creamy richness with a crunchy twist. And perhaps the most elegant illusion of all: a delicate macaron filled not with cream, but with Balik salmon, cucumber, and trout roe.

Other highlights include a financier layered with smoky bacon and aged Comté, and a foie gras lollipop balanced with tart Granny Smith apple. It’s indulgent, yes, but also cleverly composed and surprisingly refined.

No carnival is complete without a little spectacle, and the drinks here steal their own spotlight. “Popcorn Dream” arrives crowned with a cloud of cotton candy—light, nostalgic, and undeniably Instagram-worthy. Meanwhile, “Berry Carnival” is served with a subtle flame flickering beneath its ruby-red surface, turning your tea break into a moment of theatre.

Of course, if you prefer something classic, there’s also a curated selection of teas and expertly brewed coffees to ground the experience. Complementing these creations is a selection of TWG teas and barista-made coffees that allows the afternoon to unfold with grace, warmth and quiet pleasure.

This is afternoon tea that comes with an invitation to play. Perfect for a weekend catch-up, a date with a twist, or simply an excuse to indulge your curiosity, the carnival-themed set at 1864 offers something rare: a dining experience that doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet delivers on flavour, creativity, and style.

Come for the illusions, stay for the surprises—and don’t be too sure of what’s on your plate. But no matter what – it’s going to be delicious.

The Carnival-Themed Afternoon Tea is available from 15 March 2026 to 15 June 2026, from 2pm to 5pm, at $68++ per person (minimum two persons to dine). Enjoy 20% savings on the afternoon tea set when paying with DBS/OCBC/CITI/JCB/MAYBANK card. For reservations or enquiries, guests can visit https://bit.ly/a-carnival-themed-afternoon-tea call +65 6428 5000 or email HA152@sofitel.com.