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The Visionaries: A Family Legacy Afloat
At the helm of Whittington’s Tea Barge are twin sisters Chi and Chi Man. Originally from Hong Kong, they took ownership of the barge in 2022, transforming it into a premier destination for artisan baking. As a family-run business, their bond is the "secret ingredient" in everything they do. Their shared vision was to combine the elegance of British tea traditions with the precision of international pastry standards, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where every guest feels like part of the family. Together, they have navigated the challenges of running a floating business with grace, proving that when family works together, magic happens.
The First Mates: Michelin-Standard Artistry & Service
Our "First Mates," Chi and Tak, ensure that every guest’s experience is nothing short of elite. Chi brings over 15 years of world-class professional pastry experience to the galley. With a pedigree that includes Le Cordon Bleu, the Hilton Hotels, and the Michelin-starred The Hinds Head, her technical mastery is unrivaled. Complementing this is her decade of front-of-house expertise, ensuring the service is as refined as the food. Beside her, Tak elevates the experience as our Coffee Art Specialist. With over 5 years of barista experience, Tak treats every pour as a canvas, blending precision with passion to ensure that every cup of coffee is a masterpiece in its own right.
The Engine Room: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
The "Engine Room" is the powerhouse of our bakery, led by Chi Man and Chung. This is where our signature bakes come to life. Chi Man was a professional baker in Hong Kong’s pastry shop. With over 6 years of experience, she is our specialist in the "Great British Afternoon Tea," crafting the fluffiest scones and most delicate sandwiches on the river. Working in perfect harmony with her is Chung, who brings a unique fusion to the barge. With 5 years in professional kitchens and 2 years specialized in local British pub fare, Chung is a master of both local tastes and Hong Kong-style dishes. Together, they bridge two cultures, creating a menu that is both nostalgic and excitingly modern.
The Captains: Navigating Safety and Smiles
Beyond the kitchen, the safety and joy of our guests rest in the capable hands of our Captains, Tak and Chung. Their connection to the water runs deep; both have been certified kayak coaches since 1997. Today, they are RYA-trained barge pilots, expertly navigating the river to ensure every cruise is smooth and secure. Their dual roles—as barista and chef on one hand, and expert navigators on the other—embody the collaborative spirit of Whittington’s. Whether they are perfecting a latte or steering the barge through a narrow lock, their priority is always the same: providing a fun, safe, and unforgettable journey for every guest who steps aboard.
In 2012, Whittington’s was created by Andrew and Lesley. Andrew is a descendent of the original Dick Whittington. So the name was born – and the Whittington’s logo even includes Dick’s cat in its design.
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