- High tea is officially a thing – and one hotel does it better than most.
- The QT could have been made for the Mad Hatter style of High Team.
- They have a special Mad Hatter – Adriano Zumbo, the master of the macaroon.
If Sydney ever had a wonderland, it would be hidden behind the doors of the QT Sydney. And inside that wonderland? You’ll find QTea by Adriano Zumbo – a high tea experience that’s equal parts theatrical, delicious, and delightfully eccentric.
I’ve had my fair share of teas across the city, but this one? This one’s different. It’s cheeky. It’s indulgent. It’s unapologetically QT.
Often, the phrases “afternoon tea” and “high tea” are used interchangeably, as many mistakenly believe there is no difference. Both tea traditions are steeped in British history, and the differences, subtle as they may be, reflect their distinct origins.
So What Is High Tea, Anyway?
The addition of “high” in “high tea” differentiates it from afternoon tea, which is traditionally served in low, comfortable parlour chairs or while relaxing in the garden. High tea, on the other hand, is served at a table with high-back dining chairs.
But back to the QT. We arrived on a sunny Sydney afternoon, the kind that makes the city sparkle. The QT sits right on the corner of Market and George Streets, perfectly positioned for a little retail therapy afterwards (because, really, what’s high tea without a shopping sequel?).
The lobby alone feels like stepping onto a movie set – moody lighting, velvet lounges, and just the right amount of mischief. It’s pure QT: stylish, playful, and buzzing with personality.
Dario, the manager, welcomed us with a grin and a flourish, immediately setting the tone. He moved between tables like a charming ringmaster, greeting everyone – from the ladies who lunch to mums and daughters catching up, and couples sharing quiet, romantic afternoons. There’s something wonderfully democratic about high tea at QT – everyone fits in, as long as you’re here for a good time.
Forget the usual three-tiered stand. QTea serves its creations on a miniature art deco shelf, the kind you’d half expect to find in a Wes Anderson film.
It’s sculptural, stylish, and just begging for an Instagram moment. Each level reveals something new – tiny savouries, delicate sweets, and a finale that makes you feel like you’ve tumbled down a rabbit hole lined with chocolate and cream. The room hums softly – elegant chatter, clinking teapots, a little jazz in the background. There’s whimsy here, but also a sense of occasion.
Our feast began with the savouries, and let me tell you – not one felt like an afterthought. The Harissa Prawn Roll was a standout: soft milk bun, spicy prawns, burnt lemon mayo, bacon crumb, and fresh chives. It had just the right amount of heat.
Then came the Mac & Cheese Croquette, golden and crisp, hiding a heart of creamy béchamel and lemony pea purée – comfort food disguised as couture. Next was the Thai Chicken Sambo, bursting with red curry mayo, black rice, cucumber, herbs and togarashi – a zesty little firecracker that woke up the palate.
And the Tuna Niçoise, with seared tuna, green beans, olives and capers, was as pretty as it was fresh. By the time we’d reached the last bite, I was already thinking: this isn’t your grandmother’s tea. This is high tea reimagined – Sydney-style.
Then came the sweets. And honestly, this is where Zumbo’s magic really shines.
The Mr Mojito Tart was pure joy – a crisp shell filled with lime curd and mojito jelly, topped with rum crème and a tiny fried mint leaf. One bite and I was grinning.
The Earl & Mandy Chocolate Adventure was a whole story in itself: hazelnut praline, Earl Grey chocolate cream, orange jelly, and chantilly, all layered in perfect harmony. A Rare Pear – a macadamia almond cake with pear vanilla cream and rhubarb jam – was delicate, balanced, and quietly elegant.
Then came the Zumbarons, those famously garish little macarons that somehow taste even better than they look. And the Sconez – golden, warm, served with cream and fresh Tasmanian cherry jam – the kind of thing that makes you sigh with contentment. Somewhere in there, a trifle appeared. Layers of custard, sponge and cream, and just enough nostalgia to make you feel like a kid again.
Of course, it’s not high tea without, well, tea. And QTea takes this seriously.
Their loose-leaf menu is full of surprises – the Burnt Blueberry (their signature house blend), the Mumbai Chai, and the indulgent Rooibos Chocolate Bomb. I chose the QT Tea (naturally), while my companion went for the Chai T – both aromatic, comforting, and poured from the most whimsical Alice-in-Wonderland teapots you’ve ever seen.
For those who prefer bubbles to brews, the Champagne list is impressive – everything from Perrier-Jouët to Dom Pérignon. You can even order a cocktail; the Bohemian Lemon Tea Drop, with vodka, Cointreau and blue tea, is as beautiful as it is refreshing.
But what really makes the experience sing is the service.
Dario and his team bring a level of warmth that turns luxury into something human. A dance of teapots and smiles – making sure every guest feels part of the performance. It’s this combination of personality, precision and playfulness that sets QT apart.
High tea at QT Sydney isn’t just about tea and sweets – it’s about stepping out of the everyday and into something extraordinary. It’s where art meets appetite, where whimsy meets craftsmanship.
So, if you’re looking to treat yourself (or someone you adore) to something a little bit magical, QTea is it. And when you’re done, you’re right in the heart of Sydney’s most stylish shopping district. Which means only one thing, darling – retail therapy awaits!
For more, see here.
