Overview
The high tea tradition dates back to the early 19th century. At a time when it was common for dinner to be served around 9pm, Anna, the Seventh Duchess of Bedford, came up with an ingenious way to keep hangriness (angriness caused by hunger) at bay. She would while away the afternoon by indulging with sweet and savoury treats accompanied by cups of tea shared with friends.
Swapping stories over treats became a popular social activity, and today high tea has retained its elegance. The great company and excess of food remains, but now a welcomed glass of champagne has also been thrown into the mix. Many venues around Brisbane offer high tea, each with their own take on this tradition.
Spring Food + Wine
Within Spring's black cast iron gates lies a treasure trove of delights. This restaurant and cafe feels homely, yet oozes a modern elegance and is a breath of fresh air in the heart of the CBD. Stylish low-hanging lights, a fresh colour palette and an abundance of plants sets the scene for a high tea session. Their high tea is offered only on a weekend (between 2-4pm) and is priced at $55 which includes a $10 donation to Chicks in Pink, in support of women with breast cancer. On the bottom tier you will find generously filled sandwiches, the Tasmanian smoked salmon and honey roast ham and mustard were definite winners. The petite chocolate eclair and a large pink macaroon were also favourites. Spring offers loose leaf tea and coffee with their high tea, as well as a glass of sparkling champagne.
26 Felix Street, Brisbane City, 4000
Customs House
The coupling of Customs House's delectable high tea ($43 per person) and the stunning view of the Story Bridge and Brisbane River makes for a truly elegant sitting. Both inside and outside dining areas radiate sophistication and help to create a refined, yet exciting atmosphere. Customs House high tea is available in a morning session (10-11.30am) or in the afternoon (2-3.30pm). Standouts of the three-tiered delight include the mini chocolate cake with pop-rock icing and a ridiculously cute carrot cake. The staff regularly offer tea or coffee and for an extra $5 per person a glass of bubbly will await you. Customs House would be perfect for a bridal shower or a special occasion because of its downright classiness.
399 Queen Street, Brisbane City 4001
Bacchus
Upon walking into Bacchus, the high tea experience commences. Starting at $36, the high tea is well-priced and the décor of Bacchus easily lends itself to a fancy tea party. Waiter, Jean-Baptiste ensures he imparts his wisdom regarding all things tea related. His friendliness and passion for tea makes the experience all the more enjoyable. The freshly made food, including sandwiches, a mini croissant with salami, scones and gorgeous mini desserts, are very filling and will please your tastebuds. However, it is in the tea department that Bacchus really shines. Unique and exotic tea choices such as, Paris and African Autumn, will add a little extra to the sitting.
9 Glenelg Street, South Bank 4101
Room with Roses
If anyone knows how to do high tea, it's the team at Room with Roses. Climb the stairs at the Brisbane Arcade to discover this traditional English teahouse. It boasts a charming interior, featuring cute lampshades, floral printed couches and a vase with a single rose on each table. Room with Roses are immensely proud of their high tea ($42), and rightly so. All sandwiches, petite fours and scones are homemade, including the jam. The ginger scone with a touch of ginger marmalade and Chantilly cream was an absolute knockout. Having the texture best described as a mix between a cake and a scone, its lightness and subtle bite is heavenly.
160 Queen Street, Brisbane City 4000
The Marriott
The Marriott's high tea includes a glass of French champagne on arrival ($50 per person) and is offered daily between 11.00am-4.30pm. The impressive customer service will make you feel comfortable and staff are very knowledgable regarding their teas. The tea list is quite impressive, try the Spiced Black Chai or Arctic Fire for a nice alternative to plain old English Breakfast. A lovely twist to their high tea is found on the top tier. Accompanying the plain and sultana scones were individual jam jars with a bowl of Chantilly cream topped with shards of white chocolate. Furthermore, mini desserts and pastries were almost too artfully presented to eat. Quality service and ample tea choices make The Marriott's high tea truly indulgent.
515 Queen Street, Brisbane 4000
Vintaged Bar and Grill
Nestled in the middle of the stunning Hilton Hotel atrium, Vintaged Bar and Grill offers a fabulous modern setting that provides a sleek escape from reality. The high tea ($50 per person) is as chic as its setting and features all of the traditional trimmings plus a glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne. The top-tier had a few surprising and delicious treats such a raspberry friand, sticky date and a tasty opera square. Why not stick around after the high tea sitting and head to the bar for cocktails. While you may not be able to eat another bite, a leisurely drink will round off the delightful experience.
190 Elizabeth Street, Brisbane City 4000
The Shingle Inn
This quaint venue has a history as long as its selection of teas and an old timely charm that gives it a unique quality. The Grande Duke High Tea ($45 per person) is a decadent three tiered super-treat and includes all of the quintessential high tea players. The camembert, pistachio, fig and ginger confit ribbon sandwiches were delicious, as was the mini crème brûlée. Chai Marsala or Organic English Breakfast tea compliment the food beautifully as does the glass of sparkling Seppelt Salinger Cuvee 2009. Bookings are required for the high tea, served daily from 2:30pm - 4:30pm and between 11.30am - 1.30pm on weekends.
City Hall, King George Square, Brisbane City 4000