Home>Lifestyle>Food

Home>Lifestyle>Food

Food

15 Spots for the Best High Tea in Melbourne

---

By Ben McKimm - Guide

Published: 5 June 2023, Last Updated: 12 Sept 2024

Copy Link

Share

The best high tea spots in Melbourne serve top-quality tea, pastries, and sometimes even a glass or two of Champagne. If you want to be wowed by decadent displays of savoury treats, finger sandwiches, preserves, and well, tea served in dainty china then you can’t look past any of these spots on our list.

Our team of expert foodies and editors have directly sampled and experienced some of the greatest high tea places in Melbourne and have compiled an independent list of their favourite high tea places in Melbourne. Let’s check it out.

Best High Tea in Melbourne at a Glance

Our list of High Tea places in Melbourne goes like this.

• The best overall high tea in Melbourne: High Tea at The Waiting Room, Crown Melbourne
• If you’re looking for great value for money: Seasonal High Tea, The Westin Melbourne
• If you want a Champagne offering: The Langham Afternoon Tea, The Langham Hotel
• If you put food above all else: High Tea in Style by Cristina Re at Collins Kitchen

Now we’ve rounded up our favourites, let’s check out the full list.

1. High Tea at The Waiting Room, Crown Melbourne

Formerly known as ‘Conservatory’, the high tea at The Waiting Room in Crown Melbourne brings Paris straight to you in the form of a classic Parisian hotel tea room. If you’re looking to impress, you can’t go wrong with a booking at this opulent high tea location. It offers a luxurious high tea experience and is situated in the heart of Melbourne’s Southbank. You’ll find stunning Yarra views, marble floors, lavish décor, hand-crafted chocolate desserts, and an indulgent buffet spread designed to delight the senses.

In fact, we’ve even dubbed High Tea at The Waiting Room in Crown Melbourne as one of the best experiences in Melbourne thanks to their range of cold and hot dishes on offer, with must-try dishes including the Crab and Green Apple, Brioche, Lemon Verbena, alongside the Spring Pea, Burrata Tartlet, Balsamic Texture. Hot dish favourites start with the Wild Mushroom Arancini, Truffle Aioli, and Parmesan but extend to classic Beef Empanadas with Chimichurri. Pair this with flowing Piper-Heidsieck ‘Essentiel’ (2 hours) for a great Saturday morning from $129pp.

Pricing for High Tea at The Waiting Room, Crown Melbourne 

• Served with flowing Piper-Heidsieck ‘Essentiel’ (2 hours) – $129pp
• Served with a glass of Piper-Heidsieck ‘Essentiel’ – $99pp
• Served with Tea and Vittoria Coffee – $79pp

Address: Crown Towers, Crown Melbourne, 8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006
Hours: Fri-Sun 12-5pm
Phone: (03) 9292 5777

Visit The Waiting Room Crown The Waiting Room Crown Menu

2. The Langham Afternoon Tea, The Langham Hotel

The Langham Afternoon Tea offers a traditional British High Tea, including specialty tea from the British tea brand, JING. Executive pastry chef Markus Bohm takes care of the menu, with our favourite dish being the classic freshly-baked scones with fresh cream and fruit preserves. It doesn’t stop there, you’ll find gourmet sandwiches making it our high tea pick of all the spots on this list— if food is a priority. Think cherry and pistachio mousse with hazelnut jaconde and pistachio microwave sponge, or try the Chestnut panna cotta to transport yourself to another dimension. Pair any of the above with a glass of Louis Roederer for $128 pp and relax in utter opulence. This is luxury high tea at its finest.

Pricing for The Langham Afternoon Tea, The Langham Hotel

• Weekdays, Served with a glass of Taittinger Brut Reserve – $98pp
• Weekdays, Served with a glass of Louis Roederer Collection – $108pp
• Weekends, Served with a glass of Taittinger Brut Reserve – $118pp
• Weekends, Served with a glass of Louis Roederer Collection – $128pp
• Taittinger Brut Reserve – additional $115pp
• Louis Roederer Collection – additional $135pp

Address: 1 Southgate Ave, Southbank 3006
Hours: Mon-Fri & Sun 10am-12pm, 1-3pm, 4-6pm, Sunday 10am-12pm, 1-3pm
Phone: 1800 641 107

Visit The Langham Hotel The Langham Hotel Menu

3. Afternoon Tea at the Windsor, The Hotel Windsor

For authentic high tea food (Melbourne style), head on over to The Hotel Windsor which has served more than two million guests warm scones and gourmet sandwiches since its inception in 1883! In celebration of its 130 years of afternoon tea, the hotel came up with a guide that highlights tea etiquette and the history of high tea. Some enticing treats on the high tea menu include cauliflower and cheese pie, caramel log, and mandarin mousse, but we struggle to go past The Hotel Windsor’s Famous Scones. If you could only pick one of the best in Melbourne CBD to try, you can’t go wrong with The Hotel Windsor.

Pricing for Afternoon Tea at The Hotel Windsor

• Weekdays, priced from $89pp
• Weekends, priced from $109pp

Address: 111 Spring St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Wed-Sun 12-4:30pm
Phone: (03) 9633 6002

Visit Hotel Windsor Hotel Windsor Menu

4. The Art of Afternoon Tea, Park Hyatt Melbourne

The Art of Afternoon Tea hosted by the famous Park Hyatt Melbourne is a five-star high tea experience like no other. With world-class chefs and sommeliers utilising locally sourced ingredients, you are guaranteed a truly Melburnian high tea, culinary adventure. High tea here is served in the Tea Lounge overlooking the picturesque Trilogy Gardens. Highlights include finely cut sandwiches together with freshly baked scones served with a selection of jams and double cream, followed by a delectable selection of afternoon pastries that include our favourite, the classic Tiffany cake.

Pricing for The Art of Afternoon Tea

• Served with a selection of loose tea and coffee – $78pp
• Served with unlimited Victorian sparkling wine – $88pp
• Served with a glass of Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial – $98pp

Address: 1 Parliament Pl, East Melbourne VIC 3002
Hours: Sat-Sun 1:30-4pm
Phone: (03) 9224 1211

Visit Park Hyatt Melbourne Park Hyatt Melbourne Menu

5. Yugen Tea Bar, Capitol Grand South Yarra

Located on the ground floor of Capitol Grand, we’re most impressed by the dark cocoon-like space at Yugen Tea Bar. Designed by Curious Design, the space was actually awarded Best Surface Interiors at the prestigious Restaurant & Bar Design Awards 2022 and shortlisted for the Hospitality Design Award at the Australian Interior Design Awards 2022. A great place to take clients and friends that are visiting from out of town, the high tea on offer is just as impressive.

Food is broken down into two acts. First, a selection of savoury options such as sandwiches and seasonal bites. Second, the sweets, which are our favourites. Think classic pastries, scones, and small cakes like those featured in the image above.

Pricing for Yugen Tea Bar

• Served with a flute of Sparkling wine – $105pp
• Served with a flute of Champagne – $119pp
• Served with a non-alcoholic beverage – $105pp

Address: 605 Chapel St at the Capitol Grand, South Yarra VIC 3141
Hours: Sat & Sun 12-4:30pm & 6-10pm, Wed-Fri 6-10pm
Phone: (03) 8080 8080

6. High Tea in Style by Cristina Re at Collins Kitchen, Grand Hyatt Melbourne

One of Melbourne’s best restaurants is also host to one of the most well-known high tea spots in Melbourne. High Tea in Style by Cristina Re at Collins Kitchen is an extravagant experience that offers lasting memories and exquisite tastes. The menu offers a range of high-tea classics, including scones served with jams, cream and preserves, elegant finger sandwiches, decadent desserts and golden pastries presented on traditional tiered platters. The melt-in-your-mouth menu is served on 24-carat gold-rimmed Cristina Re china with beautiful arrays of colours and patterns. It’s easy to see why this makes the shortlist for our favourite high teas in Melbourne.

Pricing for High Tea in Style by Cristina Re at Collins Kitchen

• Served with a glass of Chandon Blanc de Blancs – $99pp
• Served with Chandon Blanc de Blancs – $119pp

Address: 123 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Sat 12:30-3pm
Phone: (03) 9653 4831

Visit Grand Hyatt Melbourne Grand Hyatt Melbourne Menu

7. Seasonal High Tea, The Westin Melbourne

The Westin offers a seasonal high tea menu of delicate bites including scones, finger sandwiches and delectable desserts at its high tea in Melbourne. Assembled on specially designed high tea stands, this drool-worthy menu has it all with favourites of ours including the Beurre Noisette, apple & caramel cupcake alongside the crowd-favourite Blueberry and coconut scones. The best part? All of this is served with Vittoria coffee blends, Jing Tea herbal infusions and hot chocolate.

Pricing for Seasonal High Tea

• Served with unlimited Vittoria coffee blends and Jing Herbal Infusions – $69pp
• Served with a glass of Chandon NV Brut or Rosé – $82pp
• Served with Chandon NV Brut or Rosé for a two-hour duration – $99pp

Address: The Westin Melbourne – Ground Floor, 205 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Mon-Sun 11am-4pm (bookings are essential)
Phone: (03) 9635 2222

Visit The Seasonal High Tea The Seasonal High Tea Menu

8. Weekend High Tea at Om Nom, Adelphi Hotel

There’s really no better place to treat your tastebuds than at the world’s first dessert-themed hotel. The hotel’s colours and textures are based on desserts. It also features jars of lollies and sticky toffee apples that welcome you in the lobby and reception area. Other mouthwatering features include free sweets in the bar fridges of every room, a turn-down service that comes with homemade macaroons, and of course, the 40-seat dessert resto-bar, Om Nom, which spins out sweet treats that look like pieces of art.

Pricing for Weekend High Tea at Om Nom, Adelphi Hotel

• Served with a glass of sparkling – $89
• Served with a glass of Veuve Cliquot – $99
• Served with  a glass of sparkling for a two-hour duration – $119
• Children’s high tea – $59

Address: 187 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Sat-Sun with two seating times available, 12pm and 2.30pm
Phone: (03) 8080 8827

9. Tea Room, National Gallery of Victoria

A team of talented pastry chefs are the masterminds behind the handcrafted macarons, éclairs, and other tantalising cakes and savouries found at the NGV Tea Room. High tea here comes with a modern twist i.e. it incorporates tradition with current trends. One fun example is that green tea and chai come served in pots with modern patterns. Our recommendation? Take advantage of the 1 hour of sparkling wine for the extra $10.

Pricing for Tea Room, National Gallery of Victoria

• Served with a glass of sparkling wine and a pot of tea or coffee – $79
• Served with sparkling wine for 1 hour – $89
• Served with a glass of French Champagne – $89
• Non-alcoholic high tea – $69
• Children’s high tea – $29

Address: 180 St Kilda Rd, Southbank 3006
Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-4pm
Phone: (03) 8620 2434
What We Like: Ultimate high tea indulgence in a historic venue topped off with delicious savoury treats.

Visit National Gallery Of Victoria National Gallery of Victoria Menu

10. Mámor Chocolates & High Tea Szalón

Plush velvet furniture and fine antique china and silverware make Mámor a lavish location for your next high tea Melbourne hangout. Other than heavenly morsels of food made from the best produce in town, it’s also extremely familiar with helping to plan events. It’s one of the only high tea places in Melbourne offering a sweet-based chocolate high tea, and Mámor will be able to suggest a host of entertainment options such as tarot card reading, tea leaf reading, life drawing, burlesque, professional photography, topless waiters, and bonbonniere.

Pricing for Mámor Chocolates & High Tea Szalón

• Petit High Tea (no wine) – $59pp
• Petit High Tea with a glass of Sparkling wine – $65pp
• Luxe High Tea with a glass of Sparkling wine – $79pp
• Luxe High Tea with 2 hours of flowing Sparkling wine – $95pp

Address: 153 Johnston St, Collingwood VIC 3066
Hours: Tues-Sun 10-6pm
Phone: 0432 516 776
What We Like: A chocolate high tea, freshly baked Scones with Jam and Chantilly Cream, cookies and a decadent high tea atmosphere filled with other high tea options for special occasions.

Visit Mamor Chocolates & High Tea Szalon Mamor Chocolates & High Tea Szalon Menu

11. Mary Eats Cake

In the heart of Brunswick lies Mary Eats Cake, a two-storey industrial glam’ tea house that’s dedicated to spoiling you with its version of fresh savoury items, sweet treats, and artisan teas served in fine bone china. In addition, add-ons such as a glass of French bubbly on arrival, tea blending workshop, wine pairing package, coffee, a calligraphy workshop, blossoming tea, and cheese & fruit board are also available during bookings.

Pricing from $42 pp, check out the full offering via their website here.

Address: 558 Sydney Rd, Brunswick VIC 3056
Hours: Wed 10am-2pm, Fri-Sun 10am-4pm
Phone: (03) 9728 6435

Check out Mary Eats Cake Mary Eats Cake Menu Book Mary Eats Cake

12. Strangers Corridor High Tea

Where better to have a glass of sparkling than inside the Parliament House of Victoria? Strangers Corridor has been serving traditional afternoon teas since the 1920s. The venue is one of the more traditional venues in Melbourne, including freshly baked scones served with jam and cream, pastries and finger sandwiches. When you arrive you’ll be offered a glass of sparkling wine, and the booking includes unlimited brewed tea and coffee at your table. A guided tour is offered to help you make the most of your time at this Australian landmark.

Pricing for Strangers Corridor High Tea

• Traditional Afternoon Tea – $65 per person
• Sparkling High Tea – $75 per person
• Sparkling Rose High Tea – $80 per person

Check out the menu below for all food and drink options.

Address: 1 Spring St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm
Phone: (03) 9651 8944

Visit Strangers Corridor High Tea Strangers Corridor High Tea Menu

13. Miss Violets Tea Rooms, Old Man Drew

Step back in time and enjoy a traditional high tea at one of Melbourne’s best cafes. Picture high tea and you instantly think of Royal Albert China, crystal chandeliers, white starched tablecloths and fresh flowers. That is exactly what you are greeted with when you visit Miss Violets Tea Rooms in the Old Man Drew cafe. Sometimes it’s nice to be treated to a traditional menu with no surprises, and that’s exactly what this venue offers. The menu offers well-established options, such as scones, ribbon sandwiches, and cold savoury options. Reminisce the bygone era with Miss Violets Tea Room.

Pricing for Miss Violets Team Rooms, Old Man Drew

• Served with a glass of champagne on arrival – $99 per person

Check out the menu below for all food and drink options.

Address: 359-361 Mt Alexander Rd, Ascot Vale VIC 3032
Hours: Mon-Sun from 8am-3pm, bookings are essential.
Phone: (03) 9375 4024

Visit Miss Violets Team RoomsMiss Violets Team Rooms Menu

14. Joseph’s Dining High Tea, Lancemore Mansion Hotel Werribee Park

A lavish spread of sweet and savoury delicacies welcomes you every Saturday at 12.30pm, and Sunday at 12.30pm and 3.00pm. Here, High Tea is served in Joseph’s Dining overlooking the gardens of Werribee Gardens where you’ll be treated to a glass of Mum Champagne for $85 per person.

Pricing for Joseph’s Dining High Tea, 

• Served with a glass of Mumm Champagne – $85 per person
• Children’s High Tea – $55 per person

Check out the menu below for all food and drink options.

Address: Escarpment Rd, Werribee South VIC 3030
Hours: Saturday at 12.30pm, and Sunday at 12.30pm and 3.00pm
Phone: (03) 9731 4130

Visit Joseph’s Dining High Tea Joseph’s Dining High Tea Menu

15. Collins Coffee House

This high tea destination is located on Melbourne’s bustling Collins Street making it loved by those who are in search of elegant high tea and espresso coffee. You’ll find elegant teapots, cups and saucers varnished in gold pouring fresh herbal teas alongside exquisite pastries and savoury delights. Collins Street is known for high-end dining experiences, French-style fashion and typical Melburnian espresso coffee. Be sure to check out the themed high tea events such as the Bridgeton High Tea, where you’ll find yourself transported to the Regency era, and can live out your deepest Netflix fantasies through fluffy scones, complex dialogue and mini quiches to match.

Pricing for Collin’s Coffee House High Tea 

• Brunch High Tea – $45pp
• Traditional High Tea – $60pp
• Deluxe High Tea – $85pp

Address: 395 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hours: Sat & Sun 12-2pm, Mon-Wed & Frid 8am-3pm
Phone: 0403 621 725

Key Things to Consider for High Tea in Melbourne

The key factors to keep in mind when deciding where to go:

• Location – How far will are you willing to travel?
• Value – Is it value for money?
• Service – Great service goes a long way.
• Venue – The atmosphere can make or break a high tea dining experience.

How Man of Many Chose the Best High Tea in Melbourne

With an editorial team full of foodies, Man Of Many has had the unique opportunity to directly sample and experience high tea from the best spots in Melbourne. As expert journalists who guide people between competing products and services, we have provided our independent opinion in formulating Man of Many’s selections. Our editors have taken into account location, service and the quality of food while also making a concerted effort to highlight a few spots outside of the CBD. You can review our editorial policy here surrounding how we maintain our independence in our editorial reviews.

Alternatives to High Tea in Melbourne

If you’re looking for other cuisines or dinner ideas in Melbourne, we’ve got you covered with some options listed below. You can also check out our list of Fun Things To Do in Melbourne. If you’re looking for a more specific cuisine, check out our list of Japanese Restaurants in Melbourne or the Best Italian Restaurants in Melbourne. Finally, if you’ve hit a food coma and want to get active, we can also show you the Best Beaches in Melbourne for Surfing and Swimming.

General FAQ

You’ll also like:

• Best Whisky Bars in Melbourne
• Best Yum Cha  Places in Melbourne
• Best Japanese Restaurants in Melbourne