Where can you find Brisbane’s best high teas? I’ve done the delicious legwork—fork in one hand, teacup in the other—to uncover the city’s most tempting towers of treats. From indulgent hotel lounges to charming garden escapes, this lineup has something for every craving and occasion.
Give me fluffy scones, lashings of jam, and a strong pour of tea, and I’m in my happy place. But dress it up with dainty bites, bubbles, and tiered elegance? Now we’re talking edible escapism. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, bonding over bakes with Mum, or rounding up the gals for a cheeky afternoon out, Brisbane’s high tea scene is all frocked up and ready to impress.
High teas and afternoon teas come in many different forms, so I’m sharing the best ones that I have found in Brisbane. All personally taste-tested with my tips on why they are a cut above the rest.
What to expect at a Brisbane High Tea
High tea in Brisbane isn’t just a meal—it’s a mood. Step inside one of the city’s elegant tearooms or swanky hotel lounges and you’ll be swept into a world where fine china clinks, the scent of freshly brewed tea lingers, and tiers of temptations await. From pillowy scones still warm from the oven to finger sandwiches that look too pretty to eat (but you will), every element is crafted to charm.
What sets Brisbane’s high tea scene apart? A playful twist on tradition. Expect seasonal produce, cheeky local ingredients, and the occasional surprise—like a lamington macaron or wattle-seed shortbread. Whether you’re toasting a birthday, planning a pre-wedding soirée, or simply seeking an excuse to nibble, sip and gossip in style, these high teas deliver grace with a wink. It’s indulgence dressed in pearls, and you deserve it.
Kerry Heaney and Lee Mylne get ready to High Tea at Motion Dining, Marriott Brisbane
How to Choose the Best High Tea for You
Selecting the perfect high tea experience that suits your preferences can be lots of fun. Start by thinking about your taste and the type of atmosphere you enjoy. Traditional high teas feature classic sandwiches and scones, while contemporary ones might offer more inventive, themed options. Next, decide on the setting – whether you prefer a cozy tearoom, a lavish hotel, or an outdoor garden.
It’s essential to take dietary restrictions, such as gluten free or vegan preferences, into account and check if the establishment can accommodate them. Prices vary, so have a budget in mind right from the start. Remember that the base price often does not include champagne or cocktails.
Reading online reviews and asking for recommendations can be helpful, as they provide insights into the quality of service and food, but remember everyone has different expectations.
In the end, the best high tea for you will fit with your unique tastes and expectations, ensuring a memorable and satisfying experience.
Harem High Tea presented by Kazba in collaboration with ZA ZA TA
Brisbane High Tea Guide: The Best Places to Go for Afternoon Tea
What’s New
Harem High Tea presented by Kazba in collaboration with ZA ZA TA, Fortitude Valley
Get ready for a high tea experience with a twist! Harem High Tea has arrived, bringing a bold Middle Eastern-inspired flair to the traditional tea party. This vibrant affair features bottomless, sustainable BlakBrews Tea and barista-made coffee from St Remio, with the option to add some bubbles to keep the celebration going. Savour a decadent three-tiered selection of both savoury and sweet delights. On the savoury side, you’ll find sesame falafel, halloumi doughnuts with chilli jam, chicken pita tea sandwiches, and smoked salmon latkes—each dish bursting with flavour and creativity. For dessert, indulge in pistachio baklava, rosewater Turkish delight, and orange and almond-stuffed dates, all beautifully crafted to complete your indulgent journey.
Price: The price starts from $59 per person. It’s available Tuesday to Saturday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Add some extra sparkle to the afternoon with a 90-minute bottomless package with Sparkling Wine at $99 per person or level up even further with Taittinger Champagne for $119 per person.
Why eat here? Atmospheric Kazbar will take you on a Middle Eastern journey from the moment you walk in the door. I loved this high tea and spent most of the afternoon here chatting with a friend. It’s such a cosy spot.
Zen Garden High Tea
Brisbane’s Most Unusual High Teas
Zen Garden High Tea, Brisbane CBD
For a high tea that soothes the senses and stirs the imagination, step into Bar 1603 at Hotel Indigo Brisbane for their serene Zen Garden High Tea. A sophisticated, Japanese-inspired interpretation of the classic afternoon ritual, it’s where balance, beauty, and indulgence intertwine.
Crafted by Executive Chef Valentino Acuzar, this elegant experience is a nod to the tranquillity of Zen gardens, reimagined on the plate. The savoury selection is exquisite—think succulent lobster rolls, wagyu beef tataki, salmon sashimi, crispy chicken karaage, and delicate vegetable gyoza, each bite a harmony of texture and taste.
But the true showstopper? The Edible Haus of Zen. This sculptural centrepiece—handcrafted from chocolate—is surrounded by intricate sweets like stone mousse, matcha tiramisu, and a citrusy yuzu log. It’s a work of edible art designed to impress, surprise, and delight. Zen Garden High Tea promises a refined escape into flavour and calm. Bookings are essential, with at least 24 hours’ notice required to unlock this serene slice of indulgence.
Price: From $109. It’s available between 11 am and 3 pm on Friday to Sunday from May 19.
Why eat here? The idea of a Japanese High Tea is intriguing, and the food at Izakaya Publico is excellent.
Middle Eastern High Tea, Newstead
Mecca Bah has the Ultimate Middle Eastern High Tea Experience with a glass of sparkling on arrival. Treats include a chocolate and Turkish delight brownie, kataifi kanafeh, sticky date and banana pudding, Lebanese ladies fingers, orange blossom cheesecake, turkish delight, lamb boureks, kofte ball, cheese and z’ataar scones and bruschetta. *not personally tasted
Price: $60
Why eat here? Mix up your high tea experience with different flavours.
Garlic Clove, Spring Hill
If you like going outside the square, this Indian high tea at Garlic Clove Indian with sweet and savoury selections of street food favourites could be just the thing. This adventure comes on a three-level china stand and includes finger sandwiches, steamed dumplings, Bombay burgers, and lentil doughnuts, with chocolate-dipped strawberries and Indian sweets on the top. Expect some bonus plates beforehand and so much food you’ll probably need a doggy bag. *not personally tasted
Price: $49.90
Why eat here? Easy street parking on Petrie Terrace makes this a very accessible venue, and an Indian high tea is certainly different. Book 24 hours ahead.
Brisbane’s Best High Teas for Kids
High Tea Afternoon Buffet, Zuma Restaurant, voco Brisbane City Centre Hotel
Zuma Restaurant’s new two-hour Afternoon High Tea Buffet features a plentiful collection of indulgent bites with a classic savoury selection and a large selection of sweets and bottomless tea and coffee. Don’t skip past the Chocolate Fountain centrepiece with a flowing fountain of milk chocolate accompanied by a selection of marshmallows, fresh fruit and churros. It is a chocolate lover’s dream! Fancy a refreshing tipple? Level up your buffet with two hours of free-flowing prosecco from the Pimp My Prosecco Bar for $32 per person. Enjoy De Bortoli Prosecco with a variety of juices and fruits.
Price: From $69 (Adults), $59 (Seniors), $49 for kids (8-12 years), $29 for kids (4-8 Years). It’s available from 2:30 pm-4:30 pm Saturday and Sunday.
Why eat here? The range of pricing and the opportunity to pick your own from the buffet make this a family-friendly high tea. Plus, who doesn’t love a chocolate fountain? Book at voco Brisbane City Centre.
Brisbane’s Best High Teas Winter High Tea Goldfinch Restaurant
Goldfinch Restaurant, Mercure, King George Square
Tucked inside the Pullman & Mercure Brisbane King George Square, Goldfinch Restaurant is embracing the cooler months with the launch of its Winter High Tea—a cosy yet refined experience perfect for celebrations big or small. Whether you’re toasting a birthday, planning a hen’s do, or catching up with friends, this indulgent offering delivers the timeless elegance of high tea with a seasonal twist.
The menu is a winter wonderland of texture and taste. Begin with warm, fluffy scones served with luscious strawberry jam and vanilla-infused whipped cream—comfort food at its finest. Then comes a decadent double chocolate tartlet scattered with dehydrated raspberries, followed by the earthy richness of a chestnut and quince tart wrapped in buttery pastry.
From there, delight in a light-as-air Bavarian custard profiterole and finish with a silky vanilla bean panna cotta topped with caramelised coconut—a little tropical sunshine to brighten the chilliest day.
Paired with an extensive tea selection and set in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD, Goldfinch’s Winter High Tea is a deliciously elegant way to warm up your weekend.
Price: $39 per child, from $59 for adults. 2-hour sessions available on weekends only from 12 pm – 2:30 pm. Book here.
Why eat here? Whether you’re toasting a birthday, planning a hen’s do, or catching up with friends, this indulgent offering delivers the timeless elegance of high tea with a seasonal twist.
Brisbane’s Most Elegant High Teas
Dandelion & Driftwood High Teas, Hendra
When it comes to high tea, Dandelion & Driftwood are specialists who create a memorable experience. Their high tea includes a variety of delightful items served on a three-tiered stand, featuring their signature ribbon sandwiches, a selection of mini assorted savouries, and pretty pastries and mini-filled croissants. On the middle tier are two signature light and fluffy scones with The Grainge raspberry jam and double cream. At the top tier, a delightful selection of sweets awaits, including mini lemon curd tarts, mini caramel tarts, and specialty cupcakes. I have sampled their Bridgerton Cocktail High Tea as a ladies’ lunch, as it was a fabulous event. Read more about Dandelion & Driftwood.
Price: From $60, with options for Prosecco, cocktails, or champagne.
Why eat here? It’s simply delightful, and its suburban location means the parking is very easy.
High Tea at Bacchus, South Bank
Lovers of fine white china will enjoy the petite treats served on William Edwards fine bone china (you can taste the difference in the tea) in the elegant dining room at Bacchus, South Bank. The savoury options include chicken croquettes, smoked salmon and egg and tuna sandwiches, and a savoury egg and bacon tart. For sweets, the lineup includes lamingtons, amaretti biscuits, cannolo, macarons and scones with jam and cream. It comes with continuous Harney & Sons fine teas or barista coffee. Bacchus offers a champagne high tea as well as a children’s version. High Tea is available Saturday and Sunday from 1 pm. *I have not tried the high tea recently, but their food is always of a high standard.
Cost: From $49, $35 for children.
Why eat here? If you want to play ladies, this place is a great fit.
The Brasserie at Naldham House
If your idea of the perfect Saturday involves Champagne, chatter, and charming bites, Tea & Bubbles at The Brasserie in Naldham House might just be your next ritual. Nestled in the heritage surrounds of this grand riverside venue, the high tea experience brings together indulgent house-made treats and sparkling sips in a relaxed, sophisticated setting.
Cost: Priced at $65 per person, the standard high tea includes a generous selection of sweet and savoury delights, all crafted in-house by skilled pastry chefs. Want to take things up a notch? Opt for the Taittinger Package at $145 per person, which includes a Champagne upgrade to match the occasion.Bookings are essential with 48 hours’ notice, and dietary requirements (Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegan) must be specified at the time of reservation.
Why eat here? For those seeking city elegance with a sparkling twist, Tea & Bubbles delivers high tea with timeless appeal.
Brisbane’s Best Garden High Teas
High Tea at Wild Canary, Brookfield
High Tea at Wild Canary is sure to be a delicious delight! Their special selection of miniature sandwiches and savoury options, along with Wild Canary’s freshly baked pastries, and delicious sweets. It comes with Allpress Coffee and Teilka loose leaf Tea. High Tea is available Monday to Friday between 9 am and 11 am or 2 pm and 4 pm, Saturday and Sunday between 2:30 pm and 4:30 pm. Note: A minimum of 10 people is required, and bookings are essential. *I have not enjoyed High Tea here, but I have tried their cakes on many occasions and can fully recommend them.
Cost: $65 per person
Why eat here? Enjoy the beautiful garden setting and even pick up a few plants at the garden centre before or after you eat.
High Tea at Spicers Balfour, New Farm
Once a month, Spicers Balfour Kitchen & Bar turns on one of their delectable high teas. You can expect an extensive range of sweet and savoury treats will be served in the restaurant, on the stylish verandah, or in the frangipani-shaded courtyard. High tea is available from 11.30 am to 1.30 pm with sittings at 11.30 am, 12.30 pm, and 1.30 pm.*I have not enjoyed High Tea here, but I have tried their food on many occasions and can recommend it.
Cost: $65 per person
Why eat here? Dine in a heritage inner-city Queenslander.
W Brisbane’s Art of Indulgence High Tea
Book Brisbane’s Best High Teas for Groups
W Brisbane, Brisbane CBD
Step into the bold and beautiful world of W Brisbane for a high tea with serious edge. Their Art of Indulgence offering redefines the classic with a design-led twist that’s as daring as it is delicious. Hosted in the hotel’s chic Living Room Bar, this experience blends avant-garde flair with high tea tradition, curating an afternoon of indulgence for those who appreciate the unexpected.
The menu pushes boundaries in all the right ways—think truffled wagyu beer sausage rolls, quail egg finger sandwiches topped with oscietra caviar, and a parade of patisserie that looks as striking as it tastes. It’s high tea, but make it haute.
The tea itself is no afterthought. W Brisbane’s in-house tea sommelier has partnered with South Australian artisans T Bar to deliver a hand-blended collection of brews, carefully matched to complement each bite. For the ultimate indulgence, don’t miss the exclusive Ruinart Champagne trolley making its rounds—because a glass of R de Ruinart Brut NV takes this experience from luxe to legendary.
The Art of Indulgence is a must for anyone who wants their high tea with a touch of theatre and a splash of sparkle.
Cost: From $80 per person, available Friday to Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm. Book ahead.
Why eat here? It’s a lot of fun. You are seated in the lounge area with the bar in the background, so it’s all quite modern and friendly. Parking costs in the city are reasonable on weekends. Try King George Square.
Brisbane High Tea at Motion Dining, Marriott Brisbane
Motion Dining, Brisbane CBD
Delight in a quintessential high tea in the light-filled room at Motion Dining in Marriot Brisbane. High tea is served with an assortment of petit fours, mini eclairs, handmade macaroons, freshly baked scones and an array of scrumptious sandwiches complemented with a glass of sparkling wine. There’s freshly brewed coffee and a selection of teas available. Amp up your experience with a glass of French champagne.
When: Saturday from 12 pm to 3 pm
Cost: $69 per person, including Sparkling Wine, $79 per person, including Champagne
Why eat here? Chef Peter Ivanczyk has spent 20 years honing his skills at Marriott Brisbane and has forged strong links with local suppliers. You’ll love the Dello Mano brownie he includes with his perfect macarons.
Brisbane High Tea at Motion Dining, Marriott Brisbane
High Tea Lennons Brisbane
Lennons Restaurant and Bar, Hyatt Regency, Brisbane CBD
It’s an Aussie Icons High Tea at Lennons Restaurant in Brisbane, which masterfully blends the cherished tuckshop treat flavours with gourmet cuisine at Lennons. Expect your childhood favourites from this tuckshop and grandma’s kitchen .
Cost: $55 per person, including coffee, tea and a glass of prosecco on arrival. Gluten-free available.
Why eat here? Take yourself right back to childhood with this Aussie Icons High Tea.
High Tea Lennons Brisbane
Brisbane’s Most Luxurious High Teas
Belle Epoque, South Bank
Add a French twist to your high tea with the innovative menu at Belle Epoque. There is nothing understated about this café. It’s all gilt mirrors and sparkling chandeliers, with a high tea to match.
What makes this high tea rate high, in my opinion, is the innovative offerings created by internationally-renowned Pastry Chef Charith Arachchige. There are flavours here that you won’t find anywhere else in Brisbane. With a Truffle Chicken Finger Sandwich, Reuben Brioche with Sauerkraut and Mustard and a Sheppard’s Vol au Vent to start, work your way up to the top of the tower where you’ll find deliciously sweet delicacies that Chef Arachchige is known for including an Orange, Coffee & Hazelnut Cake, a Cocoa Crunchy with Cocoa Sable & Milk Chocolate Cremeux and a Coconut Cheesecake at Belle Epoque.
Cost: There are multiple options, starting at $70 per person with tea and coffee and up to $120 per person for two hours of bottomless champagne. It’s available daily after 11.30 am.
Why eat here? This high tea stands out for its excellent food and creative pairings. The atmosphere is delightful, and the service is top-notch. Parking is available at South Bank.
Bonus: Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Nut-Free high tea options are available, plus one for the kids to enjoy.
Champagne High Tea, Brisbane CBD
The elegant surrounds of Brisbane’s Customs House Patina’s restaurant terrace are the perfect location for a special high tea with fantastic views overlooking the Story Bridge and the river. Their art deco high tea stands are filled with delicious savoury items and elegant handcrafted petite desserts. The menu includes smoked salmon on blinis with sour cream and salmon pearls, poached chicken, dill and watercress sandwiches, coronation egg and chive, beetroot cone, capsicum, eggplant, zucchini, basil and goats cheese roulade, a mini Queensland spanner crab and celery bun, a warm gruyere and leek tart with roasted cherry tomato, raspberry scones with jam, cream and fresh raspberries, assorted handcrafted petite desserts and macarons. High tea comes with your choice of espresso coffee or La Maison du Thé, a French handcrafted tea selection. Note: Bookings are required 24 hours ahead of dining with full payment. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available. *not personally tasted
Price: $88, including glass of Louis Roederer Brut Premier
Why eat here? On the right day, and Brisbane has plenty of these, the river and Story Bridge views made a fabulous backdrop to the food.
Brisbane’s Most Traditional High Teas
Room with Roses
It doesn’t get more old-school Brisbane than high tea at Room with Roses. Located on the Balcony Level of Brisbane Arcade, Room with Roses really lives up to its name with roses on every table. Everything here is made to a recipe and it’s not just any recipe either. They have been handed down over generations. It’s a gentile dining experience with everything done deliciously right at Room with Roses.
Cost: High tea starts at $46 a person and goes up to $55 for the Chocolate Fondue High Tea. You can add a glass of champagne for $9. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available with 24 hours notice.
Why eat here? This is a traditional side of Brisbane that’s hard to find. They have been doing high teas here for a long time, and they know just how to get it right. Parking in the city during the week is ridiculously expensive. Catch a bus or take the train.
Keri Craig Emporium, Brisbane CBD
You need to be in the know to discover this high tea at Keri Craig Emporium on the Basement Level of Brisbane Arcade. There are two sets of stairs in the middle of the arcade, and they lead down to the wonderland of this spacious area filled with homewares, fashion and a delightful café. The high tea is a generous serving with scones, sandwiches, petit fours and a savoury tart. All are served with tea or coffee at Keri Craig Emporium.
Cost: High tea starts at $49.50, and you can upgrade with a glass of Moet Chandon for $15.
Why eat here? I love the quiet, refined atmosphere here. The tables are set far enough apart, so you don’t have to listen to your neighbour’s conversation. They often have Frank Sinatra singing in the background, and there’s a continuous loop of Keri Craig and Jackie MacDonald discussing fashion on the television. If you don’t know who these people are, you haven’t been in Brisbane long enough.
Spirit of Queensland High Tea, Brisbane CBD
The Stamford Plaza, on the corner of Edward and Margaret Streets, has a long-established reputation for fabulous high teas. Their Spirit of Queensland High Tea has a royal touch as it echoes the spread presented to Queen Elizabeth when she toured Brisbane. It’s inspired by Queensland and Australian tastes and incorporates flavours from the red soil outback to the coastal beachfront. Served Saturdays and Sundays from 2 pm to 4 pm, it includes petite Daintree barramundi, a leek and dill mini quiche, the classic cucumber finger sandwich, champagne ham and seeded mustard sandwich, a Mt Cotton chicken, sundried tomato and mayonnaise mini wrap and the Stamford signature curry puff. The scones are Stanthorpe cider apple and raisin, Queensland blue pumpkin, and cheese and vegemite (served with Maleny dairy cream. Sweet treats include a posh retake on the original lamington, The Lord Lamington, with flavours of coconut, jam and chocolate; A Day at the Ekka with a deconstructed strawberry sundae in a glass, the Essence of Queensland created for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, with Bowen Mango, Innisfail bananas, Mareeba pineapples, Sunshine Coast finger limes in layers and Redland Bay berries with vanilla pastry cream in a Redland Bay Tart. *not personally tasted
Price: from $59
Why eat here? Take a seat on the terrace and enjoy a river view with your high tea. Afterwards, take a stroll through the Brisbane Botanic Gardens.
Brisbane’s Best High Tea for Couples
The Incholm, Spring Hill
Any Sunday from noon you’ll find high tea being served in the dining room at The Inchcolm on Wickham Terrace. This boutique hotel used to be full of doctor’s rooms and has a long Brisbane history of glamourous entertaining as well. The dining room does not disappoint, and you’ll never be stuck for conversation here. There are quirky objects and art everywhere.
The high tea stand comes filled with delicious bite-sized treats including caviar crumpets, egg and cress sandwiches, Fraser Isle crab brioches, madeleines, lemonade scones, macarons and more. You will not go home hungry, and The Inchcolm’s high tea makes a great lunch substitute.
Cost: $69 per person with a champagne upgrade available for $99 per person.
Why eat here? I loved this high tea with its attentive service and secluded atmosphere. Located in an old-world building on the edge of the CBD, dining here feels like a special occasion. Parking is available for a cheap Sunday rate under the Novotel next door, or you can probably snag a street park.
Brisbane’s Most Affordable High Teas
Crema and Cream, Nundah
High tea with an Italian touch or traditional English is what you’ll find at Crema and Cream. Known for its delicious Italian pastries, Cream and Cream presents its high teas on a tiered platter filled with sweet and savoury treats. Expect tiramisu, cannoli, biscotti, frittata and arancini. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten and dairy-free diets can all be accommodated at Crema and Cream. *not personally tasted
Price: $36, including tea or coffee.
Why eat here? Easy street parking makes this a very accessible venue, and Italian pastries add a touch of difference. It’s great that you can bring your own champagne.