Looking for the perfect spot to enjoy high tea in Canberra? Whether it’s a special celebration or a relaxing afternoon with friends, Canberra offers a range of places that serve delicious high tea experiences. From traditional settings with fresh scones and finger sandwiches to modern venues featuring creative desserts and sparkling drinks, there’s something to suit every taste and occasion. These spots provide not just great food, but also charming atmospheres that make your visit feel extra special.

This guide highlights some of the best high tea venues across Canberra, making it easy to find a place that fits what you’re looking for. Each location offers unique flavours and settings—whether you prefer a quiet café, an elegant hotel lounge, or a scenic garden spot. Many venues also cater to different dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Take a moment to explore these carefully selected venues and discover where your next relaxing and delicious high tea experience will be. Enjoy the delightful treats and warm hospitality that Canberra’s high tea spots have to offer.

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1. The Marion

The Marion
The Marion is a beautiful and comfortable restaurant where people can enjoy great food and a warm atmosphere. It offers a mix of modern dining with traditional touches, making it a perfect place for both casual meals and special occasions. The menu includes a variety of dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, so there’s something for everyone. The restaurant is a great choice for lunch, dinner, or even afternoon tea, making it ideal for family gatherings, date nights, or work celebrations. The service is friendly and attentive, and the setting is inviting and welcoming. Whether you’re there for a quick bite or a longer meal, The Marion makes every visit enjoyable. It’s a place where you can relax, enjoy delicious food, and feel at home.
Review on Google: “We had a lovely experience at The Marion! The coffee was excellent—smooth and perfectly brewed. I also tried the blueberry muffin, and it was absolutely superb, fresh, moist, and bursting with flavor. The ambience is really charming, with a clean and modern design, and it’s spacious enough to comfortably host a team outing or group get-together. Highly recommend for both casual visits and work catch-ups. Will definitely be back! “- subas subedi

2. FIRST EDITION

First Edition Canberra is a friendly restaurant where guests can enjoy great food in a comfortable setting. The menu features a variety of dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, offering something for every taste. Whether you visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there’s always something satisfying to try. The staff are known for their warm, helpful service, making everyone feel welcome. It’s a perfect spot for a casual meal, family gatherings, or business meetings. With a relaxed atmosphere and delicious food, First Edition is a popular choice for dining in Canberra. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a place to sit and chat with loved ones, it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy good food.
Review on Google: “As three regular guests we sampled from an extensive and interesting menu. Every plate was delicious – perfectly cooked! From start to finish, the family-friendly service was welcoming and attentive. Overall, the dining experience was just as we’ve come to expect from this well-run restaurant. Top marks to everyone! “- Tim Grace

3. The Tea Centre

The Tea Centre Canberra
The Tea Centre is a perfect spot for tea lovers, offering a wide selection of high-quality teas. Whether you enjoy traditional teas like black and green or prefer herbal blends, there’s something for everyone. They also sell tea accessories like teapots and infusers, making it easy to enjoy your favorite tea at home. The store’s atmosphere is calm and peaceful, ideal for taking a break and enjoying a warm cup of tea. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, happy to help you pick the best tea for your taste. It’s a lovely place to unwind, learn about different types of tea, and enjoy some quiet time with a hot cup.
Review on Google: “Great customer service. Canberra-only Canberra Earl Grey is my current favourite! Highly recommend to try the Canberra-only loose leaf tea before heading off! 100 gram is simply not enough! Will get some more next time visiting! “- Estelle

4. Tea Jac

Tea Jac
Tea and Jac is a company that specializes in high-quality teas. They offer a variety of blends, including herbal, green, and black teas, along with flavored ones. Tea lovers can enjoy the comforting taste of these teas, which are carefully crafted to provide both rich flavors and health benefits. Tea and Jac is known for using natural ingredients to ensure that each tea is fresh, aromatic, and enjoyable. Whether you’re relaxing after a busy day or looking to start your morning with an energizing drink, Tea and Jac has options that suit different tastes. Their mission is to make tea an enjoyable and healthy part of everyday life.
Review on Google: “The nicest tea I’ve ever had. The store was lovely and we were treated to a very special tasting. We will definitely come back again for more. If you love tea, you’ll love Tea Jac. “- Alexander Vuong

5. Sunday in Canberra Cafe

Sunday in Canberra Cafe
Sunday in Canberra is a cozy café and restaurant located in the city center, perfect for enjoying a relaxing meal or a cup of coffee. Known for its friendly service and delicious food, the café offers a variety of meals for breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. The menu includes fresh and tasty options like hearty sandwiches, burgers, and fresh salads, as well as sweet desserts and cakes. Whether it’s a casual coffee break or a special lunch with friends and family, Sunday in Canberra has a warm and inviting atmosphere. The café’s modern design and comfortable setting make it a great spot to enjoy food and drinks while spending time with loved ones or unwinding on a quiet afternoon.
Review on Google: “SunDay in Canberra Cafe. Simply amazing, I attended with four friends.The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming. Service was prompt and came with a genuine smile. We ordered, French toast, omelettes and avo on toast with eggs and they were top-notch. The coffee was excellent. A fantastic spot for breakfast, brunch or a casual bite. Highly recommend for families and friends. “- Atif Nisar

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, High Tea is perfect for groups in Canberra. Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday celebration, or a get-together with friends, many venues have large tables or private rooms for groups. It’s a fun and elegant way to spend time together while enjoying delicious food and tea.
Most High Tea services in Canberra are offered in the afternoon, typically between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. This is a traditional time for High Tea, though some venues may offer it later or on weekends. It’s best to check with the venue about their specific hours.
While High Tea is often enjoyed on special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, it can also be a fun way to spend a casual afternoon with friends or family. It’s a great option for anyone looking to treat themselves to a relaxing and delicious experience.
Yes, it’s best to make a reservation for High Tea in Canberra, especially if visiting popular venues or going during busy times like weekends or holidays. Reserving a spot helps avoid waiting and ensures there’s enough space and food for everyone in your group.
Yes, many places in Canberra can adjust the menu to suit dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, nut-free, or dairy-free diets. It’s always helpful to inform the venue ahead of time about any food allergies or preferences, so they can prepare accordingly and ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.