Putting on the Ritz – Four ways to enjoy a high tea this summer
- Written by
- Harri Sharman
Planning a special celebration, marking an important milestone, or just looking for an opportunity to treat yourself this summer? Why not delight in the decadence of a high tea: an elegant way to bring people together. Whether you’re keen to host your own or head out for some pampering at a restaurant, we’ve selected four fabulous options for your next afternoon treat.
Dine out in style
With sumptuous snacks served on beautiful crockery amidst relaxing surroundings, head to either of these two spots to enjoy a truly luxurious afternoon.
Hilton Lake Taupō
Located at the resort-style Hilton Lake Taupō, amidst the Victorian heritage building wing, Bistro Lago serves up The Timeless High Tea from Friday to Sunday, 12 to 3pm. Enjoy delectable petite bites while overlooking luscious greenery and the shimmering waters of Lake Taupō. Drawing inspiration from the 131-year-old building it is housed in, the crafted delights and beautiful chinaware convey the timelessness of afternoon teas and the history of this beautiful venue.
80-100 Napier Road, Hilltop, Taupō
07 376 2319
Bookings required 24 hours in advance via Resdiary on bistrolago.co.nz
Millennium Hotel Taupō
Treat yourself or a loved one to an indulgent lakeside high tea at Edgewater Restaurant, at the Millennium Hotel and Resort Taupō. With an exciting range of Dilmah Exceptional teas, freshly made club sandwiches, assortment of delicate pastries and cakes, and freshly baked scones by their talented chefs, the memorable food and unbeatable lake views make for the perfect occasion. Upgrade your high tea experience by adding a glass of bubbles from the wine list.
243 Lake Terrace, Waipahihi, Taupō
07 378 5110
Bookings required 48 hours in advance via edgewaterTaupō.co.nz
Host your own
For the entertainers, now you can host your own fabulous afternoon tea affair. Whether it’s for a picnic, a baby shower, or family event, add some class by serving up a high tea! Here are two fabulous Bay of Plenty businesses that will help you pull off your high tea with aplomb.
Sublime Catering
Situated in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, Sublime Catering cook everything from scratch, using locally sourced, seasonal produce. Their high tea platters are made fresh to order, with options for small to large groups; perfect if you’re looking to amplify a special event.
Using only real ingredients such as butter in their baking, their delightful pastries are chock full of the good stuff. Example treats include mini leek and cheese quiches, smoked salmon filo baskets, chocolate ganache tartlets, and scones with Devonshire cream and raspberry jam. You can choose to pick up directly from their kitchen, but they also offer prompt delivery and set up at your chosen venue.
Visit sublimecatering.co.nz for menus, email your enquiry to Patsy at patsy@sublimecatering.co.nz or call 027 410 6556.
Good Gracious High Tea
Over in Tauranga, Good Gracious High Tea delivers sophisticated nostalgia in the form of sweet and savoury high teas. Celebrate in style with delicious, fresh flavours presented with intricate detailing and extravagant touches. Available for pick up or delivery
to your chosen venue, the high tea menu showcases seasonal, local produce, and upcycled ingredients. Sustainability is an important element, with every piece of crockery or teacup (all available for hire) sourced from gifts or family heirlooms, including a beautiful three-tier silver cake stand. Treats include lemon and gin botanical lamingtons and their signature Good Gracious chocolate decadence.
Book for your next event at goodgracioushightea.nz or call Denise on 021 511 766.