Mar 06 2008
High Tea
Old world customs appear to be back in style. In this case, the English tradition of a formal sit down high tea - in the old days, being enjoyed by “elegant”society.
My experience was for a friend’s baby shower. The old world customs appeal to my friend, and this is a great place for ladies to go and dress up, for a nice outing.
The place we went is called High Societea, in Brisbane Australia. It only caters for high teas and is exactly how one would imagine a place like this should be.
There is a faint scent of rose that lingers in the air, and the fresh cut roses on every table is a gorgeous touch. To the right is a photo of their place settings - immaculate - even down to the white and brown sugar cubes.
Menus come around, where you can choose from a traditional high tea of sweet and savoury, or you can just choose to have savoury (which also comes with a few sweet items, just to round out the palate). There is even a Chocolate Indulgence option - which I seriously considered.
The place was packed full - mainly for bridal showers and baby showers. Though a traditional high tea cafe, the feeling was not stale - it was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon.
Everything was in miniature (as you can see to the left) - mini sandwiches, pies, quiches, muffins. Even micro scones and pikelets!
Each high tea came with a Pimms and soda. I remember as a kid my grandmother sometimes enjoyed a tall glass of Pimms (or Campari) and soda, with her afternoon tea.
The only slight ‘problem’ was with the mini cakes - there was only one of each kind, so trying to cut them in half and share was an interesting process.
There are about 10 different choices of tea on the menu, along with other drinks. I don’t actually drink tea, and was very happy with the water they offered. It had pieces of lime and mint inside, which was wonderfully refreshing. I might just have to try that now at home…
Well, now I can say I’ve experienced high tea!
