‘There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.’

So said Henry James in The Portrait of a Lady and we’re inclined to agree – for an afternoon soiree we’d highly recommend the newly opened Tea Parlour on Elizabeth St.

You’ll feel like you’ve taken a step back in time when you enter this gorgeous sitting room; there’s a splash of old Victoria in the mismatched furniture and pre-loved copies of classics like Mansfield Park are going for thruppence. But being in Redfern there’s also an alternative twist, and you’re more likely to bump into a group of it-girls than British gentry while Bob Dylan or Nina Simone compete for you affections.

Tea menus are secreted in vintage books and there are over twenty varieties to choose from including old favourites like French Earl Grey and more exotic options like Monk Pear, Wuyi Rock or Quince Green for the adventurous. They’re all served in elegant pots sized to make you linger.

There are only a handful of food selections on the menu but it’s all the good stuff you used to get at Grandmas; scones with whipped cream and jam, ham and pickle triangles or a plate of cucumber sandwiches.

Agenda couldn’t resist High Tea for $20 and happily indulged on a selection of tarts and pastries. Although with space at a premium, and word spreading fast, we’d recommend booking ahead for a group affair!

Notes -

 

Where: The Tea Parlour is located at 579 Elizabeth Street, Redfern

When: Open Wednesday through Sunday, 12pm-8pm

Get me in: Contact Amelia on 0414 335 224 for bookings