Imagine a warm, sunny afternoon in Australia, where the vibrant culture meets the laid-back lifestyle.
Here, the British tradition of cream tea has found a delightful twist.
Picture yourself in a cozy café, surrounded by the laughter of friends and the scent of fresh scones.
As you take a bite, the rich flavor of jam melds with the smooth clotted cream, and the world slows down just for a moment.
This is cream tea in Australia – a perfect blend of tradition and relaxation, where every sip of tea and bite of scone is a celebration of the simple joys in life.
1. The Tea Cosy
Nestled in the charming locale of The Rocks, The Tea Cosy offers a quaint escape with its delightful decor and soothing live music.
It's the perfect backdrop for indulging in a traditional cream tea and capturing memorable photos.
Savour the freshly baked scones, albeit a tad dry, they pair well with the house tea.
While the strawberry jam may be on the sweeter side, it's a treat for those with a sweet tooth.
The sandwiches are fresh, featuring classic fillings like eggs and ham, though the anticipated smoked salmon is missed.
2. High Tea Experience
Nestled in the heart of Melbourne, High Tea Experience offers a quaint escape to the tradition of afternoon tea.
With its cozy ambiance and attentive service, it's the perfect spot for both tea aficionados and those looking to indulge in a leisurely afternoon.
Don't miss their signature scones, served warm with clotted cream and a selection of homemade jams.
Pair them with a pot of their exclusive blends of loose-leaf tea for a truly delightful experience.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, High Tea Experience is a charming destination that promises a memorable visit.
3. Afternoon Tea at The Hotel Windsor
Step into the timeless elegance of The Hotel Windsor and indulge in an afternoon tea experience that's steeped in history.
With its grandeur and impeccable service, it's a slice of luxury that promises to make any day special.
Savor the quintessential cream tea with freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and homemade jam.
Pair it with a selection of fine teas or a glass of wine, and don't miss out on their delightful array of sandwiches and pastries, perfect for a leisurely afternoon treat.
4. The Palace Tea Room
Nestled in the historic Queen Victoria Building, The Palace Tea Room offers a regal retreat with its Victorian charm.
The ambiance is a blend of elegance and comfort, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely cream tea experience.
Indulge in the finely crafted milk-infused tea, a highlight for any tea connoisseur.
Pair it with their assortment of delectable sweet treats and light dishes that are as pleasing to the palate as they are to the eye.
The halal options cater to diverse preferences, ensuring a delightful visit for all.
5. Aimee Provence High Tea Parlour
Aimee Provence High Tea Parlour is a charming escape into a world of delicate flavors and cozy ambiance.
Perched atop Buderim with sweeping ocean views, it's the perfect spot for a serene high tea experience.
The local favorite stands out for its warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu that celebrates the art of tea and scones.
Paired with a dollop of silky cream and homemade confiture, they're an indulgence you won't forget.
Don't miss out on the savory treats like sandwich fingers, quiche, and pies, followed by petite fours that are as delightful to the palate as they are to the eye.
With a vast selection of organic teas and coffee, every sip feels like a tribute to traditional high tea, redefined with a local touch.
6. Miss Marple's Tearoom
(03) 9755 1610
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Nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges, Miss Marple's Tearoom offers a quintessential English tearoom experience.
Its popularity is evident from the bustling crowd, a blend of locals and tourists, all eager to indulge in the cozy ambiance and delectable treats.
The tearoom's signature scones are a must-try, served warm with a generous dollop of cream and jam.
For those with a hearty appetite, the soup of the day and classic fish and chips come highly recommended.
While the chicken cottage pie is modest in flavor, it's the scones that truly steal the show and warrant a return visit.
7. Room with Roses
(07) 3229 7050
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Nestled in the heart of Brisbane Arcade, Room with Roses offers a nostalgic escape to a bygone era.
With its elegant vintage decor and charming china, it's a delightful spot for those seeking a quaint high tea experience.
Indulge in the freshly prepared sandwiches and the signature chocolate fondue high tea.
While some pastries may fall short, the overall selection promises a taste of old-world charm that's worth savoring.
8. The Third Tier
Nestled in the heart of Melbourne, The Third Tier offers an enchanting escape to a world of elegance.
With its French-inspired decor and impeccable English charm, it's a haven for those seeking a luxurious high tea experience.
Indulge in the diamond platter, a masterpiece of culinary art, featuring fresh, delectable treats that cater to the most discerning palate.
The polished silverware and pristine china add to the allure, making every bite a celebration of taste and tradition.
9. Oxi Tea Room
With an ever-changing menu that takes you on a cosmic journey, it's a place where each visit promises a new adventure for your palate.
Indulge in the autumn menu's delights, from savory bites to sweet treats, all paired with exquisite teas.
The standout experience is the space-themed culinary exploration, ensuring that every morsel is a discovery in itself.
10. The Gallery
(02) 9286 6000
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Nestled in the heart of Sydney, The Gallery offers a high tea experience that is both elegant and unique.
With its plush seating and sophisticated atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.
The highlight is their commitment to sustainability, showcased by their rooftop bee-harvested honey used in the menu.
They come in two delightful varieties: the classic version for purists and a sweet version for the adventurous, infused with bee pollen, orange, and chocolate.
11. Mámor Chocolates & High Tea Szalón
Mámor Chocolates & High Tea Szalón offers a slice of European elegance with its opulent decor and luxurious high tea experience.
It's a perfect escape for those looking to indulge in a touch of aristocratic charm.
The Petit High Tea is a must-try, featuring a selection of housemade desserts that are as delicious as they are beautiful.
With vegan options available, there's something to satisfy every palate in this chocolate lover's paradise.
12. Afternoon Tea at the Langham Sydney
Nestled in the heart of Sydney, the Langham offers an afternoon tea experience with a touch of elegance.
The ambiance is a blend of classic charm and modern sophistication, making it a delightful escape from the bustling city life.
Indulge in a variety of sweet treats that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.
For those with a sweet tooth, the selection of pastries and cakes is a dream come true.
Savoury lovers aren't left out, with a couple of sandwich options that add a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
The presentation is impeccable, ensuring that every visit is both a feast for the stomach and a spectacle for the eyes.
13. La Belle Patisserie & High Tea House
La Belle Patisserie & High Tea House offers a slice of Parisian charm right in Wannanup, with a warm welcome that extends throughout your visit.
The transformation from a house to a café adds a personal touch that makes each sitting feel special.
While high tea is a star attraction, the unique nook offers an array of gifts, from gourmet chocolates to quirky "chill pills," perfect for a treat to self or a friend.
14. Hopetoun Tea Rooms est. 1892 (TM)
Nestled in the heart of Melbourne, Hopetoun Tea Rooms offers a timeless experience, blending a 131-year tradition with a modern touch.
It's the perfect escape for couples seeking a serene spot to enjoy each other's company over a cup of tea.
Indulge in the classic Earl Grey tea, renowned for its bright and smooth flavor, paired with their unique vanilla scone—a delightful twist on tradition.
The glass kitchen reveals the care in crafting fresh pastries, ensuring every bite is a treat to remember.
15. Altitude Tea - Mindful Tea Ceremony Experience
Nestled in the heart of Waterloo, Altitude Tea offers a unique escape into tranquility with its mindful tea ceremony.
It's a sanctuary where the art of tea becomes a meditative journey, inviting you to explore inner peace while savoring exquisite high-grown teas.
Indulge in the delicate flavors of their signature Bush tea, a highlight among a selection of exotic blends.
Each sip promises a serene experience, complemented by the knowledgeable host's passion for tea culture.
16. Burnt Orange
Nestled on the serene Middle Head with breathtaking water views, Burnt Orange is the epitome of elegance.
It's not just a cafe; it's an experience where the charm of high tea melds with the tranquility of nature.
Indulge in the quintessential scones, clotted cream, and jam, a perfect companion to their aromatic teas.
The high tea spread is a feast for the senses, with each bite promising a burst of fresh, local flavors.
17. Gunners Barracks
Nestled in the heart of Mosman, Gunners Barracks is not just a venue; it's an experience.
With its luxurious Victorian decor and breathtaking courtyard views, it offers an escape to a bygone era.
Indulge in the quintessential cream tea experience with freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and a selection of fine jams.
Pair it with a pot of their aromatic blend tea, and you'll understand why this place is beloved by locals and visitors alike.
18. The Hatter and the Hare
The Hatter and the Hare offers a whimsical escape into a world of delectable treats and cozy ambiance.
It's the perfect spot for a midday retreat or a weekend indulgence, with its convenient opening hours and a charming setting that feels straight out of a storybook.
Be sure to try their signature scones, which are fluffy, warm, and served with rich clotted cream and homemade jam.
Pair it with their aromatic selection of teas for the quintessential cream tea experience that will leave you coming back for more.
19. The Waiting Room
(03) 9292 5777
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Nestled in the heart of Crown Melbourne, The Waiting Room offers a luxurious escape with its elegant decor and tranquil atmosphere.
It's the perfect spot for those seeking a touch of sophistication with their cream tea experience.
Indulge in the Moët High Tea, a delightful affair that tantalizes the senses with its artful presentation and exquisite flavors.
From savory delights to sweet surprises hidden within, each bite is a testament to culinary craftsmanship.
20. Chinta Cafe
Chinta Cafe offers a unique blend of Southeast Asian flavors in a cozy, garage-turned-cafe setting.
It's the perfect spot for those seeking a quirky and inviting atmosphere to enjoy a leisurely cream tea experience.
Don't miss out on their crunchy nutty muesli and the refreshing Garden Brew smoothie for a complete breakfast or high tea indulgence.
20 Best Cream Tea in Australia for 2024
- The Tea Cosy
- High Tea Experience
- Afternoon Tea at The Hotel Windsor
- The Palace Tea Room
- Aimee Provence High Tea Parlour
- Miss Marple's Tearoom
- Room with Roses
- The Third Tier
- Oxi Tea Room
- The Gallery
- Mámor Chocolates & High Tea Szalón
- Afternoon Tea at the Langham Sydney
- La Belle Patisserie & High Tea House
- Hopetoun Tea Rooms est. 1892 (TM)
- Altitude Tea - Mindful Tea Ceremony Experience
- Burnt Orange
- Gunners Barracks
- The Hatter and the Hare
- The Waiting Room
- Chinta Cafe