High tea has become the event du jour, suitable for celebrating all manner of milestones or providing an elevated venue for casual catch-ups. These are some of the best high teas in Sydney.
The popularity of high tea has grown so much in Australia that the culinary concept now rivals that of bottomless brunching. Offered by restaurants, cafes, bars and hotels across the country, it has evolved from the upper-class British affair it once was into a contemporary gourmet offering incorporating artistic themes and cultural shifts. Given the versatility of today’s menus, this afternoon delight has become the activity of choice to celebrate occasions such as birthdays, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, pre-wedding events, anniversaries, and other important dates, as well as casual catch-ups. Elevate your next engagement by attending one of the best high teas in Sydney.
Aperture, Capella Sydney
A confluence of art, hospitality and nature, Aperture is located on the ground floor of Capella Sydney and plates up an exquisite afternoon tea experience. Flavours are internationally influenced yet feature quintessential Australian flavours.
When: Every day from 12.30pm to 4pm
Where: Aperture, Capella Sydney, 24 Loftus Street
Price: From $95pp for standard or $125pp with a glass of champagne
Read more: Inside Australia’s first Capella hotel
Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
The Wentworth High Tea at Sofitel Sydney Wentworth serves French treats, signature pâtisseries and savoury delicacies crafted by the in-house chefs in the heart of Sydney CBD. Hosted in the exclusive Velvet Lounge, the high tea enjoys views over the Wentworth Terrace on level 5.
When: Every Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 3pm in the privatised Velvet Lounge.
Where: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, 61-101 Phillip Street
Price: From $69 per person without bubbles, $89 per person with a glass of bubbles
Read more: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth hotel review
The Fox Hole
The Fox Hole has put its own twist on the classic high tea. Offering Gin & Tea over the weekends, it mixes classic high tea hors d’oeuvres with spirited teapots curated by the mixologists. Expect mushroom arancini balls and mini sandwiches paired with freshly baked scones and sweet treats, accompanied by botanic gin cocktails.
When: Saturday and Sunday
Where: The Fox Hole, 117 Harrington Street, The Rocks
Price: $85pp or upgrade to bottomless spiked teapots for an additional $25
Estate Vaucluse House
Estate Vaucluse House is a genteel gem tucked away in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the venue serves several high tea options. Choose from Traditional High Tea, Sparkling High Tea, Cocktail High Tea and Endless Spritz High Tea – all include the traditional menu, but the beverages and prices vary. The Traditional High Tea Menu comes with a selection of sweet and savoury bites, scones and tea. Guests can choose to upgrade the service to include a glass of Australian Sparkling for $10, a cocktail of choice for $19 or opt for endless drinks for $30.
When: Wednesday to Friday 11:30am to 3pm, Saturday and Sunday 10:30am to 3pm, by reservation only
Where: Estate Vaucluse House, 69A Wentworth Road, Vaucluse
Price: $75pp for the Traditional High Tea, $85pp for the Sparkling High Tea, $89pp for the Cocktail High Tea and $105pp for the Endless Spritz High Tea
The Langham
The Langham’s London flagship is rumoured to be the birthplace of the traditional afternoon tea, and its harbourside counterpart has become one of the most popular destinations for high tea in Sydney. Diners can expect to be served the hotel’s signature warm scones, delicate finger sandwiches and a selection of baked British and savoury delights.
When: Every day at 11am, 1pm and 3pm
Where: Kitchens on Kent, The Langham, 89-113 Kent Street, Millers Point
Price: From $95pp or $108pp including a glass of sparkling wine, $128pp including a glass of champagne
Read more: The Langham Sydney hotel review
Hilton Sydney
Gaze out over Sydney’s beautiful Queen Victoria Building while sipping premium, globally inspired tea blends by Dilmah. Boasting a curated menu from Chef Natalie Murphy in collaboration with Koko Black’s master chocolatiers, Hilton Sydney’s Afternoon Tea at Glass Brasserie is the perfect post-shopping activity. Treat your palate to pastrami sliders and stracciatella tartlets, before tucking into chocolate ganache scones and a chef’s selection of macarons.
When: Saturdays and Sundays from 2pm to 4:30pm.
Where: Glass Brasserie, Hilton Sydney, Level 2, 488 George Street
Price: From $78pp including tea and coffee. Cocktails and champagne available for an additional cost.
QT Sydney
The absolutely fabulous QTea High Tea by QT Sydney can be customised to suit a gluten-free or plant-based menu. Adriano Zumbo has curated a collection of culinary masterpieces that run the gamut from sensational sweet cakes to sumptuous savoury niblets. This high tea in Sydney can also be paired with a Perrier-Jouët upgrade.
When: Weekends from 11am to 3:30pm
Where: Gilt Lounge, QT Sydney, Level 3/49 Market Street
Price: $99pp including a glass of Mumm Sparkling Wine or Mocktail
The Tea Room
Located within Sydney’s iconic Queen Victoria Building, The Tea Room delivers European elegance in the heart of the city. High Tea at The Tea Room is served upon Royal Albert fine china, set with British silverware, and beloved by locals for its delectable selection of petit fours and pastries. This particular venue takes pride in loose-leaf teas, brewing only the highest quality single estate leaves and tisanes.
When: Everyday from 10am
Where: The Tea Room, Level 3/455 George Street
Price: $75pp for traditional high tea, or $85pp for sparkling, or $90pp for cocktail, $105pp for bottomless sparkling wine, mimosas and tea or coffee, $210 half a bottle of Vollereaux for two, and $230 half a bottle of Taittinger Champagne for two.
InterContinental Sydney
Hidden away within the 170-year-old sandstone Treasury Building, InterContinental Sydney’s High Tea experience showcases classics alongside modern interpretations. A selection of organic Mayde Teas and a glass of Australian sparkling wine accompany three tiers of house-made sweets and savouries. Guests can choose from a Classic High Tea, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Children’s High Tea.
When: Weekends 11am until 2.30pm
Where: The Treasury, InterContinental Sydney, Ground Level, 117 Macquarie Street
Price: $99pp including a glass of sparkling wine and choice of Mayde Tea
Read more: InterContinental Sydney reveals $120 million renovation
Loftus Lane Cafe & Bar
High tea at Loftus Lane Cafe & Bar in Sydney is a swish affair. Choose from the Ferris Wheel or Carousel High Tea, and enjoy mini sandwiches, scones with cream, macarons, berry tartlets, sliders and more. Tables are dressed with fresh flowers and French tableware, this whimsical high tea in Sydney is perfect for special occasions.
When: Every day, a minimum of two people per high tea booking
Where: Loftus Lane Cafe & Bar, Shop 3/38-42 Bridge Street
Price: From $69pp for standard, $85pp for the Signature Cocktail upgrade, $129pp for the Boozy High Tea, or $169pp for unlimited drinks.
Gunners’ Barracks
Considered to be one of Sydney’s most historic establishments, Gunners’ Barracks presents guests with fresh-baked scones, finely cut sandwiches, savoury pastries, and petit fours created by a skilled team of chefs. Guests have 41 specialty teas to choose from but may upgrade their high tea experience to include wine or cocktails.
When: Monday to Sunday from 10am to close
Where: Gunners’ Barracks, end of Suakin Drive, Mosman
Price: Traditional high tea from $75pp, sparkling from $85pp, cocktail from $90pp, $210 for champagne high tea for two.
Shangri-La Sydney
Take in the spectacular views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House from Level 36 at Shangri-La Sydney. Delicious desserts and tasty savoury morsels are set upon a three-tiered stand, complemented by fluffy scones. A vegan menu is available.
When: Every day with seatings times at 12pm until 2pm and 2.30pm until 4.30pm
Where: Level 36, Shangri-La Sydney, 176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks
Price: Weekdays from $88pp for traditional high tea and coffee, $118pp with free-flow sparkling wine, or $158pp with free-flow French Champagne. Weekends from $98pp for traditional tea with tea and coffee, $128pp with free-flow sparkling wine, or $168pp with free-flow French Champagne.
Read more: Shangri-La Sydney hotel review
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
Although Afternoon Tea at Four Seasons Hotel is only available to groups and parties, a variety of indulgent sweets and savoury treats are served upon platters and paired with scones. It’s an indulgent experience perfect for celebrating special dates and events.
When: Wednesdays to Sundays from 2pm to 5pm for groups bookings of 10 or more
Where: Four Seasons Hotel, the Mezzanine, 199 George Street, The Rocks
Price: From $69pp for Traditional Afternoon Tea, $89pp for Champagne upgrade
Read more: Four Seasons Sydney hotel review
Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel
Slow down and appreciate the finer things in life by indulging in high tea at the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel. The venue offers traditional high tea, gluten-free and vegan high tea with seasonal specially themed high tea menus peppered throughout the year. A range of La Maison Du Thé teas and Vittoria coffee is available.
When: Daily 12pm until 2.30pm
Where: Lady Fairfax Room, Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, 27 O’Connell Street
Price: From $85pp for traditional high tea.
The Palace Tea Room
Opt for traditional high tea or sparkling high tea at The Palace Tea Room. A set selection of sweet and savoury pastries are delivered alongside finger sandwiches and scones with the choice to upgrade to a sparkling package. This cafe is nestled within the Queen Victoria Building and offers a quick and easy escape from the hustle and bustle of Sydney’s CBD.
When: Every day 9am to 5pm
Where: The Palace Tea Room, Level 1 Shop 20-22 Queen Victoria Building, 455 George Street
Price: From $80pp for Traditional or $90pp with sparkling wine.
Strangers’ Restaurant, Parliament House
This seasonal high tea in Sydney provides the rare opportunity for the public to dine in Parliament House. Overlooking the Domain, Strangers’ Restaurant features a chef’s selection of sweet and savoury items that showcase the delicacies and flavours unique to the NSW regions. Expect to find scones, macarons, mini tiramisu, brie and fig tarts and mini crab croissants on the current menu.
When: Every Friday from 12pm to 3pm
Where: Strangers’ Restaurant at Parliament House, 6 Macquarie Street
Price: From $65pp for Traditional High Tea, $75 for Sparkling, $80pp for Rose Sparkling, minimum of two people per booking.
The Gallery, Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park
High tea at The Gallery will have you coming back for more. Sitting adjacent to the Sheraton’s grand foyer, the Teddy Bear High Tea boasts impeccable service and an assortment of delicious delicacies for all ages. In partnership with Build-A-Bear and Bear Cottage, teddy bears are taking over the Sheraton to bring guests a quintessential yet heartwarming high tea experience. Expect favourites like finger sandwiches and scones as well as teddy bear-themed desserts and premium loose-leaf teas.
When: Teddy Bear High Tea on The Park available on weekdays and Sundays from 11am to 3pm. Teddy Bear High Tea Buffet available every Saturday for two sittings at 11am and 1.30pm
Where: The Gallery, Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park, 161 Elizabeth Street
Price: $89pp for Teddy Bear High Tea on The Park, $99 for Teddy Bear High Tea Buffet.
Hyatt Regency
Hyatt Regency is putting a botanical Australian twist on the traditional high tea in Sydney with the Gin High Tea. Guests are treated to a smorgasbord of sweet and savoury delicacies and served two swish gin and tonics made from Fever-Tree Tonic. A selection of teas by The Rabbit Hole is also available.
When: Saturdays from 2:30pm
Where: Lobby Lounge, Hyatt Regency, 161 Sussex Street
Price: $95pp
The Charles Grand Brasserie
A delectable selection of savoury goodies and sweet treats are complemented by free-flowing tea and coffee at The Charles Brasserie Afternoon Tea. Guests can indulge in vanilla waffles, smoked salmon madeleines, and take their pick from the dessert trolley.
When: Monday to Saturday from 12pm to 5pm (last booking at 3pm)
Where: The Charles Brasserie, 66 King Street
Price: $79pp, or $99pp with a glass of NV Chandon Blanc de Blancs, or $110pp with a glass of Moet.
Mecca Bah
Designed to serve a minimum of four guests, high tea at Mecca Bah puts a Middle Eastern twist on the traditional British afternoon tea. Expect to encounter a pyramid of savoury delights and sweet desserts along with a trio of dips. Mecca Bah also has both a cocktail and sparkling upgrade.
When: Every day
Where: Mecca Bah, Shop 5, 32-34 The Promenade, King Street Wharf
Price: $64pp for sparkling wine or $74 for cocktail (minimum four guests and booking 48 hours prior).
Burnt Orange
Located in Mosman with a wraparound balcony and views of the water, Burnt Orange is a quaint little upscale cafe with a joyous high tea service. The Traditional High Tea menu is served alongside tea or coffee and features special treats all made in house, including a Chocolate Brownie and Fairy Roll.
When: Wednesday to Friday at 12pm, weekends at 3.30pm or 5.30pm, by reservation only
Where: Burnt Orange, 1108-1109 Middle Head Road, Mosman
Price: $65pp for traditional, $75pp with a glass of sparkling wine, an additional $15 per cocktail.
The Tea Cosy
For those who desire an afternoon tea experience that feels a little more home-style and handmade, be sure to try The Tea Cosy in The Rocks. The Devonshire scones are baked fresh on-site every day and served with natural double cream and gourmet jam. The finger sandwiches are neat bites of heaven, and the atmosphere is heartwarming.
When: Monday to Friday 9:30am to 4pm, weekends from 9am to 5pm
Where: The Tea Cosy, 7 Atherden Street, The Rocks
Price: $30pp for The Grandstand (drinks not included).
Bottega Coco
Set in the swish harbourside locale of Barangaroo, Bottega Coco is an Italian restaurant, patisserie and cellar serving up a luxury high tea inspired by Italian gastronomy. Savour delicate finger sandwiches, relish freshly baked scones and treat your taste buds to an array of exquisite desserts such as macarons and mini cake slices.
When: Daily 10am to 3.30pm
Where: Shop 1 T3.01/300 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo
Price: Standard High Tea from $80pp with your choice of tea and coffee; Deluxe High Tea from $95pp with a glass of Chandon Brut; Platinum High Tea from $165pp with 2.5-hour Standard Beverage Package.
*Pricing, offers, upgrades and inclusions are correct at time of publication but may change at any time
What is high tea?
A light meal typically served after 4pm but prior to 6pm, afternoon tea is the concept from which high tea developed. However, British historians believe the notion was invented by the seventh Duchess of Bedford, Anna Maria Russell, around the 1840s. The once-lady-in-waiting to Queen Victoria described experiencing a “sinking” feeling around 5pm each day, and thusly asked her staff to bring tea, bread and butter, and cake to her room in the late afternoon. The trend took off among her friends, and soon, all of upper-class society.
What should you wear to high tea?
Given high tea is considered to be a relatively crisp affair, garments such as blouses, knee-length skirts and dresses, dress pants, slacks, shirts and jackets are all suitable. An elevated smart casual code should be adopted.
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