2025-07-16T08:59:00Z

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Imagine sipping your tea while cuddling a lion cub—sounds like a scene straight out of a whimsical fairy tale, right? But in Shanxi, China, this unusual combination is now a reality at a restaurant that’s capturing both hearts and headlines!

The Wanhui restaurant in Taiyuan has taken the concept of afternoon tea to a whole new level, offering a lavish four-course meal paired with none other than adorable lion cubs. This unique experience has quickly gone viral on social media platforms like Wechat and Weibo, where customers proudly share pictures of themselves cradling these fluffy creatures like treasured babies.

Opened earlier this year in June, Wanhui has become a hotspot for those willing to shell out around 1,078 yuan (approximately $150) for the chance to cuddle with not only lion cubs, but also llamas, turtles, and deer! The restaurant sells about 20 tickets daily, appealing to affluent diners looking for a memorable way to spend their afternoon.

However, this trend has sparked significant concern regarding the welfare of these animals. Critics argue that such practices raise serious questions about legality and animal rights. As one user on Weibo put it bluntly, “This is for the rich to play,” pointing to the growing divide between those who can afford luxury experiences and those who absolutely cannot.

Authorities have taken notice too. Just last June, a hotel in Chongqing faced backlash for a similarly controversial experience, where guests were awakened by playful red pandas climbing onto their beds. As more of these animal-centered services pop up, many are calling for stricter regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of these creatures.

The growing popularity of such experiences not only highlights a peculiar trend in the luxury dining scene but also raises pressing questions about the ethics of using animals for entertainment. Are we crossing a line, or is this just a harmless new twist on the traditional tea time?