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 an eye-popping array of dishes like mini quiches, raspberry and strawberry mousses, sweet and savoury tartlets and more. 

What is it? A cult fave high tea and chocolate salon.
How much? Prices vary from $50 to $100-plus per person, 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 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, extra 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 tea house specialist completely devoted to curating bespoke and memorable high tea experiences. 
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 completely centred on high tea. Whether you opt for a signature seasonal high tea or work with the specialists instead 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 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. There's even a special kids' themed high tea you can add on to the experience! 

What is it? A sky-high afternoon tea experience.
How much? From $98 per adult and $45 per child.
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. It's pretty impressive, and once you're done you can treat yourself to a shopping spree along the Paris end of Collins Street. For lunch, 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 patisserie in Sandringham, where everything is made in-house by owner and pastry chef Maria Lanaras and her team, including the jam for the scones. 
How much? The price for the full high tea package – which includes five savouries, four sweets, plus scones – is $79 per person (additional $10 for a glass of sparkling wine on arrival), or there's a bottomless package at $119 per person.
Why go? Not only is Dzert a super welcoming destination for birthdays and celebrations, the owners' Greek heritage and time-honoured family recipes lend this place a lot of heart. With specialty coffee and friendly service, this is definitely one to try Bayside.

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 within Parliament House, 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 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.