High Tea in Melbourne

Afternoon tea, cakes scones & pastries

The gracious old lady that is the city of Melbourne is renowned world-wide for its old world charm, salubrious architecture and it's high tea.

Traditional afternoon tea also called high tea served with freshly baked scones, jam and cream, pastries and finger sandwiches. Some include a glass of bubbly but all with freshly brewed tea and coffee brought to your table throughout the service.

See below for featured High Tea venues and etiquette with Michelle Milton.

 

Finally, Melbourne's Top 10 High Tea's review and guide.

Featured High Tea

High Tea

I do love a high tea, although Josephine prefers to call it, Afternoon Tea.
Some call it Sunday High Tea even when it's served on Monday.
Words = Afternoon tea, high tea, high coffee, daggy tea, crafty tea.
How about Mother's Day Tea?

Also see Tea House | Tea Room | Tea Garden | Mother's Day

 

High Tea Etiquette

Minding your manners with Melbourne's resident high tea expert Michelle Milton.

 

The host should wait for guests to begin before starting.
Making sure everyone at your table has what they need and is comfortable is just good manners. Guests won’t be shy to ask before you start, but after you’ve filled your teacup and plate, they may be reluctant.

Avoid picking items from the tower with your fingers
Use your fork if servers are not provided. Do not remove a plate from the tower – you want to be sure all the guest can reach the tiny delicacies on offer.

The napkin should be folded along the diagonal and placed on your lap
When finished, fold the napkin and place to the side of your plate to signal to the host that you are finished.

Never start eating until everyone has been served
It’s a communal experience, designed to share and enjoy together. Make sure to chew your food with your mouth closed. You’ll have plenty of time for chatting between bites.

Scones should be broken into manageable pieces with your hands
Do not cut with a knife or fork. Use serving spoons to add jam and cream to your working plate – this will help to prevent raspberry jam on your high-tea best!

 

For further preparation, visit the High Tea Society for history, etiquette and perfecting your cuppa. 

So, if you are asking where is the BEST High Tea, or BEST Afternoon tea, here is the list of Melbourne's Top 10 High Tea's.