High 5

Sydney Morning Herald

Thursday September 25, 2008

Simon Thomsen

Simon Thomsen is in the mood for a spot of afternoon tea.

1. Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

Vivid treats designed by Parisian patisserie Lenotre star here: soft macaroons filled with raspberries and lemon curd, gold-leaf-capped opera cake, plus scones and finger sandwiches. Brews are from Frankfurt teahouse Ronnefeldt. Daily, $42. 61-101 Phillip Street, city. Bookings: 9228 9157.

2. The Tea Room, Gunners' Barracks

This off-shoot of The Tea Room at the Queen Victoria Building offers harbour views from a former 19th-century military mess, fine china, 33 teas and five food options (including gluten-free). Daily, from $28. End of Suakin Drive, Mosman. Bookings: 8962 5900.

3. The Victoria Room

The old-school ritual here is accompanied by Victorian-raj decor, drawn curtains and low lighting. It boasts a three-tier stand of cakes, hot scones and crust-free sandwiches, plus nine black teas. Sat and Sun, from $35. Level 1, 235 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst. Bookings: 9357 4488.

4. Guillaume at Bennelong

This two-hour extravagance harmonises an opera recital with roast beef and crab and coriander sandwiches, French pastries, and exquisite madeleines and jellies. The price includes a glass of sparkling wine. Wednesdays, $145. Sydney Opera House. Bookings: 9250 7250.

5. The Observatory Hotel

The Observatory delivers the goods - velvet sofas, 20 blends of tea and cucumber sandwiches. For the serious, there are tea-appreciation classes ($89) or, for a giggle, tea-leaf readings (from $79). Daily, from $39. 89-113 Kent Street, city. Bookings: 9256 2222.

© 2008 Sydney Morning Herald

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