Over the past few months my partner Rob and I have been enjoying the elegant tradition of High Tea, mainly in Sydney. We love the variety, and the delicacy of the cakes and savouries on offer.
A highlight was our experience at Strangers Restaurant, at Parliament House in historic Macquarie Street. It is located through the main entrance, just beyond the building’s Fountain Court.
NSW Parliament House
‘Strangers’ refers to those who are not Members of Parliament. Originally the restaurant was used for politicians to entertain visiting dignitaries, consulate representatives and members of the Royal Family. It is now open to the public.
High Tea is only available on Fridays, from 12.00 until 3.00 pm. The menu changes with the seasons.
Note the etched Waratah flower, and the insignia on the menu.
There is a serene view onto the Domain, and gentle background music from a grand piano. 
We loved the addition of dry ice on the tiered cake stand, for that a little bit of theatre.
Rob almost obscured! 😍
High tea would not be complete without a Devonshire Tea.
The triple layer stand and individual serving plates are Wedgewood, and like the menus they bear the parliamentary crest. It is these touches that make the occasion one to remember,
AND SO TO CANBERRA….
Queen’s Terrace Cafe is on the first floor above the marble columns of Parliament House foyer. High Tea is available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11.00am. The cost is the same as at Strangers, $70 0r $80 with a glass of wine.
The miniature cups of corn and basil velouté made a perfect beginning.
Here too, the menu is seasonal. We visited in late spring.
I was quite taken with the miniature quail pies (third from left).
Look at those tiny, cream topped lamingtons on the far left. Surely they should always be present, regardless of season. 😊 Each plate was also a visual delight.
A sweet finale was a little pot of honey ice-cream, made from honey harvested from the bee hives at Parliament House.
From the rooftop one floor higher there is a special view back to Old Parliament house and beyond.
CONCLUSION? High Tea is meant to be a celebration, and both venues delivered, Strangers Restaurant at NSW Parliament House definitely has the edge when it comes to atmosphere. However, for sheer creativity and presentation of food I give the nod to Queen’s Terrace Cafe in Canberra. Booking is necessary, particularly for Strangers Restaurant.
To explore the history of High Tea, CLICK HERE
