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 1pm to 4pm
Where: Aperture, Capella Sydney, 24 Loftus Street, Sydney
Price: From $105pp for standard or $120 with a glass of champagne
Read more: Inside Australia’s first Capella hotel
Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
The Couture High Tea at Sofitel Sydney Wentworth serves French treats and signature patisseries crafted by the in-house chefs in the heart of Sydney CBD. Hosted in the exclusive Club Lounge in the Velvet Room, the high tea enjoys views over the Garen Court.
When: Every Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 3pm in the privatised Velvet Room.
Where: 61-101 Phillip Street Sydney, NSW, Australia, 2000
Price: From $69 per person without bottomless bubbles
Read more: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth hotel review
Estate Vaucluse House
Estate Vaucluse House is a genteel gem tucked away in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the venue serves an Estate Sparkling High Tea option with a selection of sweet and savoury bites, scones, tea and a glass of Australian sparkling wine. Guests can choose to upgrade the service to a cocktail inclusion for $10, or champagne for $22.
When: Wednesday to Friday 11:30am to 3pm, Saturday and Sunday 10:30am to 3pm, by reservation only
Where: Estate Vaucluse House, 69A Wentworth Rd, Vaucluse
Price: $60pp for the traditional high tea, and $70pp for the sparkling 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. There are also limited edition high teas, such as the Anna Polyviou menu – which can be customised to suit a plant-based diet, and there’s even a high tea option for beloved pooches, the Doggy Afternoon Tea by Anna Polyviou, served in the hotel lobby lounge until 30 October 2023.
When: Everyday, 11am, 1pm and 3pm.
Where: Kitchens on Kent, The Langham, 89-113 Kent Street, Millers Point
Price: Weekdays from $98pp including a glass of sparkling or mocktail, $108pp including a glass of champagne, and $38 per dog. Weekends from $118pp including a glass of sparkling or mocktail, $128pp including a glass of champagne
Read more: The Langham Sydney hotel review
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 4pm
Where: L1 Gilt Lounge, QT Sydney, 49 Market Street, Sydney
Price: $95pp
Alibi Bar & Dining
Alibi Bar & Dining is unique in that it dishes up a completely vegan high tea in Sydney. The concept is guided by clean food philosophies and combines classical and innovative cooking techniques to achieve a creative edge with plant-based ingredients. On August 12, Alibi launches the Rebellious High Tea, a not-so-traditional high tea curated by Shannon Martinez, Australia’s pioneer of plant-based dining. Guests can choose to upgrade their experience with a free-flowing wine option.
When: Weekends from 12pm to 4pm
Where: Alibi Bar & Dining, 6 Cowper Wharf Rdwy, Woolloomooloo
Price: $70pp
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, L3 455 George St, Sydney
Price: $70pp for traditional high tea, or $80pp for sparkling, $85 for cocktail, of $200 per pair for the champagne option, with Taittinger Champagne
The Waiting Room
High tea is taken to a new level at The Waiting Room at Crown Sydney. Understated elegance and supreme service define the venue, which enjoys views of Sydney Harbour. Champagne-inspired sweet and savoury treats feature on the menu which is accompanied by an extensive champagne list. Expect lobster bonbons, tarts, scones and gourmet sandwiches.
When: Weekends from 2pm to 5pm
Where: The Waiting Room, Crown Tower Sydney, L1 1 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo
Price: $105pp with standard tea or coffee, from $115pp to $150pp depending on wine selection
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 or gluten-free high tea.
When: Weekends 12pm to 3:30pm
Where: The Treasury, InterContinental Sydney, LG 117 Macquarie Street, Sydney
Price: $99pp including a glass of sparkling wine and choice of Mayde Tea
Read more: InterContinental Sydney reveals $120 million renovation
Loftus Lane Cafe and Cocktail Bar
High tea at Loftus Lane Cafe & Cocktail Bar in Sydney is a swish affair. Choose from the Ferris Wheel or Sweet Box 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 & Cocktail Bar, Shop 3/38-42 Bridge St, Sydney
Price: From $69pp for standard, $85pp for the Signature Cocktail upgrade, or $129pp for the Boozy high tea
Gunner’s Barracks
Considered to be one of Sydney’s most historic establishments, Gunner’s 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: Gunner’s Barracks, end of Suakin Drive, Georges Heights, Mosman
Price: Traditional high tea from $70pp, sparkling from $80pp, cocktail from $85pp, $200 for champagne high tea for two
Shangri-La Sydney
Take in the spectacular views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House from level 36 of Shangri-La Sydney. Delicious desserts and tasty savoury morsels are set upon a three-tiered stand, complemented by fluffy scones and a glass of sparkling champagne. A vegan menu is available.
When: Every day at 12pm and 2:30pm
Where: Altitude, Shangri-La Sydney, L36 176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks
Price: Weekdays from $79pp for traditional high tea and coffee, $89pp for glass of sparkling, $109pp with free flow sparkling wine. Weekends from $94pp for traditional tea with tea and coffee, $104pp for glass of sparkling, $124pp with free flow sparkling wine. Window table minimum spend of $140pp at all times
Read more: Shangri-La Sydney hotel review
Mode Kitchen & Bar, Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
Although high 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: Every day from 2pm to 4pm for groups bookings of 10 or more
Where: Mode Kitchen & Bar, Four Season Hotel, 199 George Street, Sydney
Price: From $99pp for traditional high tea, $119pp for champagne upgrade
Read more: Four Seasons Sydney hotel review
The Teahouse
The Teahouse puts an oriental spin on the English high tea. Hainanese chicken, dumplings, buns and bao are all on the menu, alongside sweet confections and specialty teas. Bespoke cocktails and world-class champagne elevate the offering even further, while the opulent surroundings ensure guests are transported to an oasis of calm.
When: Weekends from 2pm to 5pm
Where: The Teahouse, L3, 1 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo
Price: From $118pp for standard high tea, $128pp for cocktail, $138pp for champagne
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 both traditional high tea and a vegan high tea with seasonal limited-edition high tea menus peppered throughout the year. A range of La Maison Du Thé teas and Vittoria coffee is available.
When: Thursday to Sunday from 12pm to 1:30pm, and 1:30pm to 3pm
Where: Lady Fairfax Room, Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, 27 O’Connell Street, Sydney
Price: From $75pp for traditional high tea, $85 for sparkling
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 upstairs 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 4pm
Where: The Palace Tea Rooms, shop L1 20-22 Queen Victoria Building, 455 George St Sydney
Price: From $60pp for standard or $70pp for sparkling
Sydney Strangers’ restaurant, Parliament House
This limited edition high tea in Sydney has been extended into November 2023. Once a month, Strangers Restaurant hosts a high tea for the public. Expect to find sultana scones, strawberry and pistachio éclairs, mini croque monsieur croissants and chilli beef empanadas, plus desserts.
When: Thursdays: 10 August, 7 September, 5 October, 2 November, 9 November, 2023, 12pm to 3pm
Where: High Tea Sydney Strangers Restaurant at Parliament House, 6 Macquarie St, Sydney
Price: From $65pp for traditional high tea, $75 for sparkling, $80pp for rose sparkling, minimum of two people per booking
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: The Lobby Lounge, Hyatt Regency, 161 Sussex Street, Sydney
Price: $85pp
Charles Grand Brasserie
A delectable selection of savoury goodies and sweet treats are complemented by free-flowing tea and coffe, plus a glass of NV Moët & Chandon at The Charles Brasserie‘s Afternoon Tea. The Signature Caviar Service is an optional extra, but all guests can expect to indulge in scones with chantilly, toasted brioche topped with salmon, savoury muffins, and take their pick from the dessert trolley.
When: Monday to Sunday from 12pm to 5om
Where: The Brasseries, The Charles, 66 King Street, Sydney
Price: $99pp with a glass of Moët & Chandon, or $75pp for non-alcoholic
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 from 11:30am
Where: Mecca Bah, shop 5, 32-34 The Promenade, King Street Wharf, Sydney
Price: $74pp cocktail, $64pp for sparkling
Burnt Orange
Located in Mosman with a wraparound verandah 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 the cafe’s signature Burnt Orange Tart made from blood orange curd and Swiss meringue.
When: Wednesday to Friday at 12pm, weekends ar 3:30pm to 5:30pm, by reservation only
Where: Burnt Orange, 1109 Middle Head Rd, Mosman
Price: $70pp for traditional high tea, $80pp for the sparkling upgrade
The Tea Cosy
For those who desire an afternoon tea experience that feels a little more home-style and hand made, 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, weekend from 9am to 5pm
Where: The Tea Cosy, 7 Atherden Street, The Rocks
Price: A la carte
*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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