Is this Canberra’s newest and most sophisticated high tea?

Posted on 21 March, 2024

One of Canberra’s most luxurious and refined fine-dining restaurants will soon be bringing an exclusive high tea option back to Barton – and the menu sounds opulent.

After all, what sounds better than nibbling on freshly baked scones accompanied by clotted cream and preserves, and an exquisite selection of pastries in the warm embrace of a classic European-inspired bistro?

Nestled in the elegant confines of Hotel Realm, Canberra’s newest sophisticated high tea experience can now be found from 6 April at Louis, home of some of our favourite French and European-inspired cuisine from award-winning Chef Ben Willis.

Expanding the already flavoursome menus to encompass a new high tea offering on Saturdays only (with seatings from 11 am – 1 pm and 2 pm – 4 pm), the new meticulously curated option goes beyond your normal treats, seeing a more sophisticated take on the classic and time-honoured tradition – and it doesn’t break the bank.

For just $80 per person, for two hours you can indulge in an impressive array of sweet and savoury options, ranging from delicate finger sandwiches – like Huon Valley smoked salmon, lemon and dill crème fraiche, a classic cucumber sandwich with mint and chives and even a Yuzu Kosho prawn brioche roll – and strawberry or plain scones with cream and homemade jam.

For those with a sweet tooth, dessert menu features mouth-watering options like an Underground Spirits Vodka cheesecake, blood orange curd and frangipane tart and a dark chocolate tart with caramel, and whipped hazelnut praline ganache that is sure to go down a treat, even if they almost look almost too pretty to eat.

The drinks menu is equally impressive. Boasting a diverse range of premium blends and herbal infusions to suit every palate, a variety of teas by TWS will be available but for those who want to make their experience even more opulent, there are alternate Champagne/sparkling and wine options available on the day – including a Sparkling High Tea option with a glass of sparkling or prosecco for $90, a Louis Roederer High Tea with a glass of Champagne for $110 and a free-flowing Sparkling/Mimosa High Tea for $120.

However, for wine enthusiasts, the real highlight is the option of a glass of Louis Roederer NV for an additional $30 or a bottle of Louis Roederer NV for $150 – the perfect accompaniment to your finely crafted treats. Oh, and to top it off, the decadent cocktail menu will also be available on the day.

Reminiscent of a romantic and indulgent European holiday (without needing to book a plane ticket), the Louis High Tea sounds like the perfect excuse to dress up and head out for a catch-up with the girls or a lazy afternoon spent indulging in a beautiful location.

Make sure to book ahead so you can savour the moment. This is foodie elegance at its finest.

Photography: Abbie Melle. Supplied.