What Are the Best High Tea Experiences in Melbourne?
Melbourne offers a variety of elegant high tea experiences, from traditional afternoon tea at The Hotel Windsor and luxurious treats at The Langham Melbourne to the historic charm of Hopetoun Tea Rooms. For something more modern, Oxi Tea Room offers themed experiences, while The Westin Melbourne's High Cheese provides a savoury alternative. These venues are ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, bridal showers, family gatherings or a relaxing afternoon with friends.
Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
3 min read
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Melbourne has a wonderful high tea scene, ranging from grand historic hotels to elegant tea rooms and creative modern experiences. Whether you're planning a birthday, anniversary, bridal shower, family celebration or simply want an afternoon of indulgence, there are plenty of places to choose from.
Traditional Melbourne high tea usually includes finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, pastries, desserts and a selection of teas, often served on a tiered stand.
1. The Hotel Windsor
Afternoon Tea at The Hotel Windsor is one of Melbourne's most iconic high tea experiences. Located on Spring Street, the historic hotel has been serving afternoon tea since 1883, making it a classic choice for anyone looking for a traditional experience.
Guests can enjoy finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, contemporary sweets and specialty teas in an elegant heritage setting. Weekend sittings also include a dessert buffet and chocolate fountain.
Best for: Traditional high tea, celebrations and first-time visitors.
2. The Langham Melbourne
The Langham, Melbourne offers a luxurious afternoon tea experience in Southbank. The Langham's afternoon-tea tradition dates back to 1865, and its Melbourne offering combines classic British-style treats with contemporary pastry creations.
The experience includes savoury bites, pastries, freshly baked scones and specialty tea. It is particularly suitable for birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions.
Best for: Luxury and elegant celebrations.
3. Hopetoun Tea Rooms
Hopetoun Tea Rooms est. 1892 (TM) is a historic Melbourne institution located in the Block Arcade. Established in 1892, it is known for its beautiful cakes, traditional tea-room atmosphere and classic afternoon tea experience.
The setting makes it particularly appealing if you want to combine high tea with a visit to one of Melbourne's most historic shopping arcades.
Best for: History, cakes and a classic Melbourne atmosphere.
4. Oxi Tea Room
Oxi Tea Room in Carlton offers a more modern take on the traditional tea experience. It is a good option for people who want something playful and contemporary rather than a formal hotel setting.
The venue is also known for themed high tea experiences, making it popular for groups and celebrations.
Best for: Themed experiences, groups and something different.
5. High Tea at Pan Pacific Melbourne
High Tea at Pan Pacific Melbourne offers an elegant high tea experience at South Wharf. Its location is particularly convenient if you're exploring the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre or the Yarra River precinct.
Best for: A polished hotel experience and special occasions.
6. Collins Coffee House
Collins Coffee House at 395 Collins Street is another option for an afternoon tea experience in Melbourne CBD. Its central location makes it convenient for visitors who want to combine tea with shopping and sightseeing.
Best for: A convenient CBD afternoon tea.
7. High Cheese at The Westin Melbourne
The Westin Melbourne offers something different with its High Cheese experience at Allegro. Instead of focusing on the traditional sweet high tea format, the experience puts cheese and savoury flavours at the centre, accompanied by wine.
Best for: Cheese lovers and people looking for a modern alternative to traditional high tea.
Which High Tea Should You Choose?
Experience | Best For |
|---|---|
The Hotel Windsor | Traditional high tea |
The Langham Melbourne | Luxury celebrations |
Hopetoun Tea Rooms | Historic atmosphere |
Oxi Tea Room | Modern & themed experiences |
Pan Pacific Melbourne | Elegant hotel setting |
Collins Coffee House | CBD convenience |
The Westin – High Cheese | Savoury alternative |
Tips for Enjoying High Tea in Melbourne
High tea is especially popular on weekends and around special occasions, so advance reservations are recommended. Menus and prices can also change seasonally.
If you're visiting with children or have dietary requirements, check with the venue before booking. The Hotel Windsor, for example, offers children's and dietary-adapted options.
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