Gosh, we luuuurrrrve a High Tea.
And it’s not just us who are in love, these days, it’s a popular pastime for just about anyone.
There’s something about those tiered platters of savoury and sweet treats that just gets us going.
Add a warm cup of tea or coffee [or if there’s a cheeky bevvie option on the menu, even better], and we’re all set.
High Tea is getting more and more popular in the Illawarra and so we’ve rounded up some wonderful spots for a High Tea fix.
Pinkies up! It’s time for a tea party!
Hideaway Lane
This isn’t your typical High Tea. The specialty at Hideaway Lane is a ‘Luxe High Cheese’.
Just when you think High Tea couldn’t get any better, they take it up a notch with cheese.
Incredible!
Right in the heart of Wollongong, it’s an excellent location too.
At the moment, most bookings are for private events, which works well if there’s a shindig coming up. Buuuut public bookings are on their way, yay!
Meanwhile, they’re still running regular public events like their “Christmas in July” themed High Teas, Mother’s Day and more.
Palisade Kitchen & Bar
Every Monday through to Saturday at Palisade Kitchen & Bar inside the Novotel is High Tea time.
The selection on offer is almost as pretty as that iconic view over North Beach and just as wonderful, for sure.
We’re drooling at the sounds of those towers of goodness stacked with finger sangas, house-made scones loaded with jam and cream, and a mix of sweet and savoury treats. Barista-made coffee and a line-up of Dilmah teas round it all out.
There’s a special “Little Peeps” menu too, made just for the kiddos, so good!
Bookings can be made online.
The Sands Receptions
Mark your calendars for the 3rd Saturday of every month and you won’t miss this gorgeous High Tea in Shellharbour.
Right by Shellharbour North Beach, The Sands Receptions serves up a fancy little feast with dainty sandwiches, savoury bites, fluffy scones, and oh-so-pretty cakes and pastries, all whipped up fresh by The Sands crew.
Pair it with loose-leaf tea, proper coffee, and a glass of Aussie bubbles to top it all off… splendid!
They have gluten-free options here as well, just make sure to notify the team when booking.
Woolshed Kitchen by Fine Spun
This is a magical spot for High Tea every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, all year round. In summer, grab a spot out on the verandah and soak up the sunshine. In winter, cosy up near the fireplace.
The menu gets regular updates, which is excellent news because it means there’s always something new and delicious to try. The last time we visited, we were lucky enough to munch on house-cured salmon rolls and the dreamiest cheesecake pots. Can’t wait to go back for another round.
They also run special seasonal High Tea events, which are absolutely worth booking in for.
With a minimum booking of just two peeps, it’s perfect for a date or a hang with your bestie[s].
Queen St Cafe Berry
Not one, not two but 3 different High Tea options are available at Queen St Cafe in beautiful Berry.
Come early for the Morning Tea Plate which includes B&E sliders, bruschetta, salmon croissants, macarons, petit fours, and scones with jam and cream.
Or sleep in a bit and get yourselves the Lunch Plate with chicken sliders, lobster po boy sliders, sandwiches, macarons, petit fours, and of course those scones with jam and cream.
There’s also the Grande High Tea Plate which brings it up a notch even further and needs to be booked in advance.
Either way, you’re tummy with thank you, and for only $39pp it’s a mighty good deal to boot.
Chante Kids Day Spa & High Tea
Who says grown-ups get to have all the High Tea fun?
Not us, and definitely not Chante Kids Day Spa & High Tea.
Their High Tea packages are such a fun idea for your kiddo’s next birthday, with extras like slime-making, painting, and jewel creations to make the day even more special.
They also run school holiday events throughout the year, so there’s no need to wait for a birthday to get in on the High Tea fun.
High Tea in the Vines with Kenny Escapes
Even though the High Tea itself isn’t technically in the Illawarra, the tour by Kenny Escapes starts here so we’re counting it.
This fun day trip heads to three South Coast wineries for wine tastings, cheese platters and all the good stuff.
The extra special part is the fabulous vineyard High Tea with sweet and savoury treats, tea and a glass of bubbles. Ideal for hens parties, birthdays or just because.
Well, now we’re definitely craving some finger sandwiches, Earl Grey, and scones!
The only question is, jam or cream first?
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