The best high teas in Melbourne

What is it? A traditional afternoon tea in a grand setting.

How much? From Wednesdays to Fridays, it's $89 per adult, $69 per senior and $59 per child. On Saturdays and Sundays, it's $109 per adult and $79 per child. A glass of sparkling is included in the package (or you can upgrade to Champagne). On weekends, a dessert buffet and chocolate fountain is included in the price.

Why go? Having served afternoon tea every day since 1883, the Windsor has perfected the traditional offerings of ribbon sandwiches, tasty scones and an ever-changing array of pastries. Expect treats like mini quiches, raspberry and strawberry mousse, savoury tartlets and more. 

What is it? A tea house specialist completely devoted to curating bespoke and memorable high tea experiences in Brunswick and Montrose. 

How much? Prices start at $72 per person, varying depending on which package you choose. View the full list of offerings at the website.

Why go? Mary Eats Cake is one of the only spots around Melbourne that's entirely centred on high tea. Whether you opt for a signature seasonal high tea or want to bring your bridal or birthday high tea dreams to life, the treats here are guaranteed to impress. Expect a fresh modern twist to the old-fashioned traditions you know and love, with vintage teaware and classic desserts in a cosy tea room. 

What is it? A classic British-inspired high tea experience in an opulent hotel setting.

How much? It's around $120 to $160, depending on when you go and which drinks package you book. Bottomless rosé is available during the week.

Why go? With specialty tea from Ronnefeldt and dedicated tea specialists on hand, this is a go-to for those who believe the main star of a high tea should be... well, tea! Snacks on offer include the famous coronation chicken and aged cheddar and picalilli sandwiches, bannoffee tarts, arancini, scones and more.

What is it? A cult fave high tea and chocolate salon.

How much? Prices vary from $50 upwards, depending on which high tea you choose. View the full list of offerings at the website.

Why go? This quaint spot in Collingwood started out as an entrepreneur-founded chocolate shop, but has since evolved into an enchanting tea salon – now run by a talented pastry chef. Anticipate elegantly crafted handmade treats, warm service and a unique sense of old-world charm.

What is it? A sky-high afternoon tea experience.

How much? From $98 per adult.

Why go? From the Sofitel's No35 restaurant, you'll be able to soak up sweeping views across Melbourne's skyline and Port Phillip Bay. Expect a three-tiered stand filled with delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and a selection of homemade desserts. It'll be paired with sparkling wine and your choice of unlimited tea from the hotel's extensive selection or espresso coffee.

What is it? A contemporary tea house, serving premium Kenyan and Taiwanese teas, creative desserts and seasonally rotating afternoon tea experiences with an artful touch.

How much? Afternoon tea starts from $128 per adult, with extra charged for add-ons like alcoholic drinks, additional teas or free-flow sparkling.

Why go? How many high teas have you experienced that involved a theme; a quiz, story or challenge; a prize; and flavour combos like spicy shrimp and crab roe cream or smoked strawberry and red quandong? If cucumber sangas are a snooze fest for you and you're keen to experience high tea in a bold new way, book this one now and bring along a curious friend.

What is it? A contemporary twist on the traditional high tea.

How much? From $80 per person, with additional costs if you'd like to add Chandon (one glass or free-flowing).

Why go? The Westin is possibly one of Melbourne's snazziest five-star hotels – so if you're keen on sipping your tea or coffee in a sophisticated lobby lounge, this is the one. Along with freshly baked scones, there are three tiers of sweet and savoury delights to enjoy: think truffle-spiked mushroom tarts, poached chicken and candied lemon tea sangas, blood orange crème brûlée and plenty more. 

What is it? A modern high tea experience with 360-degree views of Melbourne. 

How much? $85 per person.

Why go? Located 40 storeys up at Strato Melbourne, this is an elevated high tea in the most literal sense. You'll receieve a complimentary glass of bubbles on arrival, with tea and coffee served throughout. Some of the yummy treats include scones with jam and cream (obviously), silken egg sandwiches with Dijon mustard and chives, slow-braised beef and poppyseed pies, custard tarts and macarons. You can also add on Bellinis, Mimosas and Spritzes – cheers!

What is it? A traditional afternoon tea experience in an esteemed government building.

How much? $95 per person.

Why go? Parliament House has been serving traditional afternoon tea since 1924, and now you can be part of that history. It takes place in Strangers Corridor, an elegant wood-panelled restaurant, and you'll be treated to sparkling wine, freshly brewed tea and an array of freshly baked scones, sweet pastries and finger sandwiches.

What is it? A high tea with a live violinist performance.

How much? This particular high tea with the live performer starts at $75 per person. See here for a wider selection of packages. 

Why go? Step into a world of refined elegance at this weekend high tea affair, where beautiful live music elevates the mood. Your high tea spread features a tiered stand of handmade treats from a British pastry chef, best paired with the premium loose-leaf teapot or freshly brewed barista coffee on offer (bubbles available at an extra cost).