Christchurch, affectionately known as the Garden City of New Zealand, reverberates leaves visitors spellbound with its stunning beauty and rich, vibrant cultural heritage. And nothing reflects the traditional English heritage of Christchurch better than the enduring tradition of afternoon tea. Now increasingly popular worldwide, afternoon tea is an elegant and enjoyable experience that brings people together to indulge in beautifully crafted pastries coupled with soothing infusions. Here, we highlight some top venues in the city you can visit to enjoy an authentic afternoon tea experience.
First on our list is the luxurious Otahuna Lodge. This prestigious establishment, restaurant christchurch located on a sprawling historic estate, offers a quintessential afternoon tea experience reminiscent of the Victorian era. Their tea menu includes an array of scrumptious pastries and finger sandwiches served on delicate china, accompanied by a selection of hand-picked tea infusions. The enriching ambiance, coupled with the majestic views of the Canterbury Plains, transforms the afternoon tea experience into an unforgettable event.
Secondly, we recommend the whimsical Beat Street Cafe. Nestled in Christchurch’s city center, this vibrant cafe features an eclectic mix of local artistry and classic decor. They serve a selection of delicate sandwiches, macarons, scones, and mini cakes. Their special Kiwi high tea also includes a sample of native New Zealand teas or your choice from a selection of coffees. It’s a unique blend of culture and gastronomy that provides a fresh, local twist on the afternoon tea tradition.
The Curator’s House offers yet another splendid afternoon tea experience. Situated in the heart of Christchurch’s stunning Botanic Gardens, it has an incredible atmosphere and sits amidst a meticulously maintained vegetable garden. Their Spanish influenced menu adds a twist to classic English finger food, making for a unique high tea experience. Their standout item, the Spanish Churros served with rich chocolate sauce, makes for a delightful dessert after savouring their assorted sandwiches.
Our final recommendation is the beautifully restored Mona Vale Homestead. Featuring classic Victorian architecture, this historic venue exudes charm and elegance, making it a premium choice for high tea. Mona Vale offers a selection of traditional sandwiches, pastries and cakes, all made in-house and served on three-tiered stands. Alongside this gastronomic delight, they offer an extensive range of teas, including classic English breakfast and Earl Grey, and some exotic additions like Moroccan Mint and Jasmine Blossom.
Christchurch’s afternoon tea scene is a tea lover’s dream come true. Whether you are a fan of traditional English pastries, prefer a little twist to your afternoon tea or just want to indulge in the elegant beauty of historical venues, this city has something for you. Create unforgettable memories as you enjoy a pot of gently brewed tea, meticulously prepared finger foods, and pleasant conversations in an environment rich in history and culture. Rest assured that Christchurch, with its melange of top-notch venues, will give you an authentic afternoon tea experience that will leave you echoing the city’s cherished English heritage.