It seems everything old is new again. High tea is the latest craze inspiring girls who enjoy the finer things in life.

Several teas are on offer around Sydney, although strictly speaking they’re not exactly the “high teas” the Brits enjoyed in the 1700s. Today’s version is a more decadent affair, with pastries, chocolate covered strawberries, lemon tarts and freshly baked scones.

It’s also not all about the tea. The Globe Bar at the Observatory Hotel believes Pink Moet Chandon is the perfect starter before a warm cuppa. You’ll also enjoy yummy treats like quiche Lorraine while listening to the jazzy tunes played on the grand piano.

The view from Guillame at Bennelong is stunning. What else would you expect from a restaurant located within the Sydney Opera House? But it’s honestly not the best place for a traditional high tea, although the $125 price may make you think otherwise. You won’t find cucumber sandwiches, and the roast beef is served alongside sugary passionfruit jelly. The foodies might lap up this kind of thing, but the rest of us might want to give it a miss.

Darlinghurst’s Victoria Room is a lot more inviting, which could be why the crowds flock to this popular teahouse. The Victorian furnishing really sets the mood, and the fresh sandwiches and piping hot scones are a perfect accompaniment to your tea. This is what high tea is supposed to be like.

Skip across the harbour and enjoy the Gunners’ Barracks at Mosman. This stunning spot offers views of Sydney Harbour and Shark Island, so it’s worth attempting to book a table outside. The tea selection is to die for, particularly the black jasmine variety.

Sofitel Wentworth’s high tea has a Parisian feel, with cream and chocolate covered strawberries and delicious pastries. It also doesn’t attract the crowds you’d expect, which makes the experience all the richer.

A shopping centre isn’t exactly an ideal setting for high tea, but if you need a break from your next spot of retail therapy you may want to check out the tearoom in the Queen Victoria Building. The high ceilings and ornate chandeliers really make you feel like you’re a world away from the hustle and bustle outside. I also love the variety of sweet and savoury delicacies.

For a family friendly high tea, you can’t go past Max Brenner. It doesn’t have quite the sense of style the ritzy hotels offer, but it doesn’t try to. What it does deliver is wonderful tea and sumptuous sweets including choccies, brownies, strawberries, and some more chocolate. This is the sort of high tea mums can do without worrying about their littlies disturbing the other patrons.

As the weather turns cooler a high tea experience starts to sound even more appealing, no matter where you choose to go.

Image source: Yann.co.nz @ Flickr

Post from: The Sydney Traveler