{"id":4995,"date":"2018-03-09T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2018-03-08T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/?p=4995"},"modified":"2020-05-01T13:54:41","modified_gmt":"2020-05-01T03:54:41","slug":"sydneys-best-high-teas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/sydney\/food-wine\/sydneys-best-high-teas\/","title":{"rendered":"5 of Sydney\u2019s tastiest high teas"},"content":{"rendered":"

Dainty finger sandwiches with fresh-made bread. Light and fluffy scones smothered in jam and cream. A sneaky glass (or two) of champagne. Yeah, you\u2019ve gotta love a decadent high tea. Sydney has some delicious options, but we put our lives (or at least our tastebuds) on the line to find five of the best. You\u2019re\u00a0welcome \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n

Sarah checks out\u2026 The Langham, Sydney<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Not only is The Langham, Sydney located in The Rocks – one of Sydney\u2019s most historic neighborhoods \u2013 it\u2019s also home to one of the most decadent afternoon tea experiences in Sydney.<\/p>\n

Afternoon Tea with Wedgewood at The Langham, Sydney<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

The Afternoon Tea with Wedgewood is held daily in the Palm Court lounge, which is a beautiful, elegant room off to the side of the lobby area. Seated on the lounges, with the afternoon sun pouring in and a glass of Laurent Perrier champagne \u2013 served on arrival by the very attentive staff \u2013 it\u2019s a nice way to get into the swing of holiday (or weekend) life.<\/p>\n

As someone who can\u2019t quite figure out if they\u2019re a sweet or savoury type, the Langham\u2019s afternoon tea delivers to my tastebuds. For savoury, the stand-outs include the turkey, brie and cranberry sandwich, and the king salmon, wasabi and charcoal cone. For sweet, the pistachio and raspberry bon bon, and the rosewater lamington both go down a treat with a cup of Earl Grey tea. Last\u00a0but not least are the Langham\u2019s freshly made, light and fluffy scones \u2013 served with house-made jam and cream \u2013 which take me back to childhood visits with my grandparents \ud83d\ude0a<\/p>\n

The Langham, Sydney<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

The Langham\u2019s Afternoon Tea with Wedgewood starts from $70 per person ($70 per person Monday-Friday; $80 per person on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays), not including champagne.<\/p>\n

The Langham, Sydney<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

Why Sarah loved it<\/strong><\/p>\n

No other Sydney afternoon tea can beat the Langham\u2019s old-world Victorian charm. The flagship Langham in London is famed as the birthplace of very FIRST afternoon tea experience (created 140 years ago) and the Langham chain recreates the flavour and feel of the original experience at each of its properties around the world. From the d\u00e9cor to the Wedgwood crockery to the service and ambiance, this is the ultimate high tea for those who want to step back in time.<\/p>\n

Aliisa checks out\u2026 Primus Hotel Sydney<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

High tea at Primus Hotel Sydney is served in the hotel\u2019s stunning art deco lobby. High ceilings and impressive eight-metre marble columns greet you as soon as you enter. However, as we pass the blush velvet lounges and walk to our table, we soon appreciate the intimacy of the space and settle in for an afternoon of delicious high tea, great music and people watching.<\/p>\n

Primus Hotel Sydney<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

Two high-tea experiences are available at Primus Hotel Sydney: the more traditional Wilmot High Tea and the G\u2019n\u2019Tea for gentlemen. Both experiences start from $45 per person, however we opt for the premium option for $65 per person, which includes a glass of Veuve Clicquot Rich, served with orange, blueberry and\u00a0raspberry.<\/p>\n

Our favourites from the Wilmot High Tea menu include the fried chicken sliders, the crab and prawn sandwiches, and the chocolate mousse and hazelnut crumble. Hot tip: Eat your white chocolate and lemon scone first to make sure you enjoy the scone at its fluffiest.\u00a0 From the G\u2019n\u2019Tea experience, we recommend the wagyu sliders and the salt and pepper squid. Of the teas, Bombay Chai and Sencha Green Tea are our\u00a0preference.<\/p>\n

G\u2019n\u2019Tea at Primus Hotel Sydney<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

The highlight of our experience by far is the service. Our host Nikolai carefully explains each menu item for us and ensures we\u2019re well looked after throughout the afternoon.<\/p>\n

The Wilmot High Tea at Primus Hotel Sydney<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

The high tea is available seven days a week from 3pm to 5pm. Large groups or those after a more intimate setting can also enjoy the experience in the hotel\u2019s restaurant, The Wilmot.<\/p>\n

Why Aliisa loved it<\/strong><\/p>\n

The hotel is stunning from every angle and stylishly honours the site\u2019s iconic 1930s design, as well as its history as the Sydney Metropolitan Water Board head office. It\u2019s worth exploring the hotel during your visit, including a trip to the rooftop pool and bar. Located on level seven, it is truly one of Sydney\u2019s best hidden\u00a0gems.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Chi checks out\u2026 Sheraton on the Park<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Sheraton on the Park has a grand entrance, with inviting marble pillars and gold-and-bronze trimmings to match its gold-and-bronze staircase. It\u2019s as if you\u2019ve walked into a ballroom. It\u2019s also centrally located \u2013 just opposite Hyde Park, perfect for an enjoyable stroll after your afternoon tea. High tea is served in the Gallery and is priced at $59 per person (with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate), $72 per person (with a glass of Domaine Blanc de Blancs), or $80 per person (with a glass of Ruinart Blanc De Blancs).<\/p>\n

High tea at Sheraton on the Park<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

If you\u2019ve never been to a high tea, you may wonder what sort of people go to them and for what occasions. Well, at the Sheraton on the Park, it\u2019s refreshing to see a diverse crowd, including multiple families (with all members in attendance \u2013 including dads), all out enjoying a relaxed afternoon. There is even a date!<\/p>\n

The service is wonderful. The Sheraton\u2019s attentive staff are happy and excited to share their favourite menu items (and recommend some must-haves!), and knowledgeable about the beautiful variety of teas available. Even if you\u2019re not a regular tea drinker, they will almost certainly have an option or two to suit your taste. I thoroughly enjoy the Prince of Kandy.<\/p>\n

Sheraton on the Park<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

On weekends, the Sheraton\u2019s high tea is served as a buffet, which means you can try it all (and go back for more of the morsels you love). This is great news for those that are gluten-free as well, as you can design a plate to suit your dietary needs.\u00a0With the option to go back for seconds (or thirds\u2026 or fourths\u2026 or fifths\u2026) of your favourite delights, you know you\u2019re in for a treat.<\/p>\n

Sheraton on the Park<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

Why Chi loved it<\/strong><\/p>\n

The weekend buffet is a clever twist on the traditional high tea and offers excellent value (particularly for fussy eaters or people with special dietary needs). There are so many delicious treats to choose from, but my personal favourite is the strawberry mousse. Feathery light, with a combination of sweet flavours, it takes great willpower to scoop only one spoonful into your mouth. You could easily (and very likely will) go back for more!\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Amanda checks out\u2026 Swissotel Sydney<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Next to the Pitt Street Mall and the State Theatre, the Swissotel is surrounded by Sydney\u2019s best shopping and entertainment, which you can enjoy before or after your high tea experience. The Swissotel\u2019s high tea is hosted in the Crossroads Bar \u2013 a light and bright spot on level eight, next to the busy lobby. Tea is served in two-hour sittings from 12 to 4pm. Make sure to ask for one of the comfy circular booths.<\/p>\n

High tea at Swissotel Sydney<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

We are greeted with a buffet-style high tea, which includes a generous mix of hot and cold, and savoury and sweet items. It\u2019s $69 per person, which includes sparkling wine or a cocktail on arrival, coffee, and a variety of T2 teas. It\u2019s a busy day, and the buffet can\u2019t be re-filled fast enough, as a crowd of families, baby shower attendees, and mothers and daughters all enjoy the delicacies.<\/p>\n

Swissotel Sydney<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

We treat ourselves to traditional high-tea fare like finger sandwiches and scones, as well as delicious hot items like mini beef parcels and mushroom quiches. There are also ample dessert options, including tarts, panacotta, and macaroons. But as far as my daughter is concerned, the real star of the show is the giant chocolate fountain. She loves it.<\/p>\n

Swissotel Sydney<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

Why Amanda loved it<\/strong><\/p>\n

If you are taking a child (or someone who\u2019s young at heart), the chocolate fountain with lots of dipping options will be a definite highlight. The buffet \u2013 which is a rarity as far as Sydney high teas are concerned \u2013 offers plenty of variety and gives you the chance to enjoy your faves again and again.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Cassie checks out\u2026 The Westin Sydney<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

High tea at The Westin is served in The Bar, Lounge and Room space, adjacent to the hotel lobby. It\u2019s a great excuse to check out one of Sydney\u2019s most stunning hotels. The Westin is housed in the historic Sydney General Post Office, and The Bar, Lounge & Room space makes the most of the building\u2019s unique heritage charm.<\/p>\n

Heritage High Tea at The Westin Sydney<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

The Westin serves two high-tea options \u2013 the traditional, yet modern, Heritage High Tea, and the imaginative and playful Mad Hatter\u2019s High Tea (inspired by Alice\u2019s adventures in Wonderland). Each comes with the option of tea or coffee ($54 per person), a cocktail ($64 per person) or a glass of R de Ruinart Champagne ($74 per person). We go for the champagne\u2026 because why not? This turns out to be a very good decision \u2013 it\u2019s the best we\u2019ve ever tasted.<\/p>\n

Mad Hatter\u2019s High Tea at The Westin Sydney<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

My guest and I combine forces (and appetites) to try both the Heritage and the Mad Hatter\u2019s teas, and I definitely recommend it if you have enough people to make it work. Our favourite nibbles from the Heritage tea include the slow-cooked smoked salmon triple stack with caper berries, the glazed caramel mousse with fresh berries and raspberry gel, and the classic vanilla cr\u00e8me brul\u00e8e with sweet, nutty biscotti. On the Mad Hatter\u2019s side, we love the \u2018Tweedledee & Tweedledum\u2019 – roasted beef and fresh asparagus roulade on mini laugen, the \u2018Alice in Wonderland\u2019 – spanner crab meat salad on double bread, wrapped in cucumber, and the \u2018White Rabbit’s Pocket Watch\u2019 \u2013 a sweet macaroon with blueberry cream filling.<\/p>\n

Make sure you leave room for scones! The Westin Sydney.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
<\/div>\n

Why Cassie loved it<\/strong><\/p>\n

I\u2019m a sucker for cute, creatively presented food \u2013 especially when it\u2019s inspired by one of my favourite childhood stories. The Mad Hatter\u2019s High Tea is one of Sydney\u2019s unique foodie experiences and a lot of fun to boot. Extra points for introducing me to my new favourite champagne, too.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Dainty finger sandwiches with fresh-made bread. Light and fluffy scones smothered in jam and cream. A sneaky glass (or two) of champagne. Yeah, you\u2019ve gotta love a decadent high tea. Sydney has some delicious options, but we put our lives (or at least our tastebuds) on the line to find five of the best. You\u2019re\u00a0welcome …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":4998,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[22,776,782],"tags":[],"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4995"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4995"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4995\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5043,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4995\/revisions\/5043"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4998"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4995"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4995"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4995"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}