The CITY:
Best places to have high tea

18 JANUARY 2023

Experience the beloved British tradition of high tea without the need for a long-haul flight. You’re spoilt for choice in The City with elegant afternoons of sweet and savoury treats served with tea and champagne. Indulge in traditional or modern experiences for any occasion from Mother’s Day to bridal showers. .

IN THIS ARTICLE
IN THIS ARTICLE

Traditional

Built in 1886, Customs House provides a spectacular backdrop for high tea on the banks of the Brisbane River. With views of the Story Bridge, take the time to sit back, relax, and enjoy petite desserts presented on art deco high tea stands while sipping champagne on the terrace. This experience is available Wednesday through Sunday.  

In the heart of The City, on the upper balcony of the historic Brisbane Arcade, Room with Roses is a quaint teahouse beloved by generations. Regulars travel a long way for the ribbon sandwiches and raspberry scones.  
 
Keri Craig Emporium Fashion Cafe is also in Brisbane Arcade and acts as a popular gathering spot for those who love high tea. Presented with a glass of French bubbles or orange juice, it’s a very posh way to enjoy your scones.  

Housed within one of Brisbane's most recognised buildings, Shingle Inn City Hall is one of the Queensland capital's oldest and most treasured cafés. A selection of loose-leaf teas and Shingle Inn’s unique coffee blend ensure there is an afternoon tea accompaniment to suit everyone’s tastes. Your little ones won’t miss out – Shingle Inn also offers a pint-sized Teddy Bear High Tea.  

Hotels

For an artistic spin on high tea, head to W Brisbane's Living Room Bar on the hotel’s ground floor for a unique high tea experience that will delight all your senses. Enjoy locally sourced produce while sipping on perfectly paired cocktails, bottomless tea or champagne. 

Revel in an elegant high tea experience with a stunning sweet and savoury selection in the ambient surroundings of the Treasury Heritage Hotel every weekend. Your afternoon high tea is served in the sunlit surrounds of The Lab with your choice of bottomless La Maison Du Thé French handcrafted teas. This is the perfect spot to treat your mum or nan!  
 
Savour the afternoon with a French-inspired high tea at Sofitel Brisbane. With a spectacular view of The City, gather your girlfriends and nibble on a decadent array of handcrafted French delights, paired perfectly with a glass of – you guessed it – champagne. Available Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  
 
Enjoy a delightful afternoon of crafted desserts, savoury bites and a glass of Moët & Chandon in The Charles, located in the stylish, classic hotel lobby of The Westin Brisbane. What better way to while away the afternoon? Available Thursday to Sunday.  

Head to Lennons Bar & Restaurant at Hyatt Regency Brisbane on the weekend for a high tea experience in the heart of The City. Indulge in homemade sweet and savoury creations while you sip on champagne and either barista coffee or specialty tea. 

Friends enjoying a drink at Riverbar.