One of Australia’s best cities for high tea culture is South Australia. It’s where classic tradition meets the flair of contemporary life. Enjoy the blend of local produce with a splash of bubbly or a hot drink, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, meeting with friends, or treating yourself. Keep scrolling to uncover some of Adelaide’s top spots to sip and savour.

InterContinental Adelaide

Located on North Terrace in the heart of the city centre, the InterContinental is a riverside restaurant that sets an elegant tone for high tea. Surround yourself with refined decor as you look out over the River Torrens. The high tea at the InterContinental includes a tiered afternoon spread with gourmet finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with cream and jam, warm pastries and an array of sweet treats. The menu is closely based on the season, ensuring the best South Australian produce is presented in front of you. Sip on a glass of champagne to elevate the experience further for a special occasion or celebration. We recommend heading to this high tea on a Saturday or Sunday at 1 or 2pm for the best experience.

Madame Hanoi

For high tea seekers wanting something a little different to the traditional cucumber sandwiches and scones, we recommend a visit to Madame Hanoi at Adelaide Casino. This high tea has a Vietnamese fusion twist that combines the sweet, salty, spicy, and savoury: think poached pulled chicken bao buns and traditional Vietnamese desserts. Madame Hanoi is a multi-award winning Southeast Asian restaurant with striking dishes transcending the traditional borders of high tea expectations. Skip over to this unique experience on a Thursday or Friday from midday into the afternoon – it’s the perfect option for adventurous foodies craving fresh delicacies. 

Mayflower Restaurant and The Den Bistro

In Adelaide’s CBD is the Mayfair Hotel, offering a sophisticated high tea in the Mayflower Restaurant and The Den Bistro. A blend of handcrafted sweet and savoury treats, customers are offered the option of fine wedgewood teas or a freshly brewed coffee. Champagne is also available for those toasting to special moments. Whether you’re visiting for a friendly catch-up or marking an event, the atmosphere of the Mayfair is sure to make every bite feel that little bit more special. High tea is available at The Mayfair Hotel every weekend. Book ahead to secure your spot. 

The Popeye

A memorable high tea combo can be expected at The Popeye. Cruise the River Torrens aboard a scenic cruise from Elder Park. This 90-minute experience is complete with finger sandwiches, pastries, scones, and delicate bite-sized confections aka ‘petit fours’. Pair your savoury and sweet treats with a glass of sparkling South Australian wine or beer, or stick to the traditional tea and coffee. We love this high tea for its blend of delicious food and drink, coupled with views of the Torrens. Pre-order a bottle of something special to elevate your experience, or to mark an important event. 

Garcon Bleu

A French-inspired affair can be found perched on Currie Street in the Sofitel Adelaide. Garcon Bleu brings a taste of Parisian elegance to the traditional afternoon tea, beautifully pairing crafted sweet and savoury treats with deliciously-brewed loose-leaf teas and coffee. A range of packaging options are available at Garcon Bleu, from the classic high tea with sparkling wine on arrival, to the full sparkling or gin-infused experience for a more special celebration. Nibble on elegant pastries, sandwiches, and desserts on weekends from 1pm – a popular choice for leisurely Saturday and Sunday afternoons in the city. 

Koomo and Luna10

A high tea with a rooftop twist can be found at Koomo and Luna10 at Crown Plaza. Located on level 10, this high tea is atop Adelaide’s tallest hotel, pairing the scenic panorama of the city with tiered treats. Taste light macarons to mini roast rolls – Koomo and Luna10 offer a delicious mix of sweet and savoury delicacies. With special packages for kids aged 5 to 12, it’s the perfect family outing, friendly catch-up, colleague meeting, or personal time location. Head into the venue on a Thursday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday in the early afternoon.