There’s just something about high tea that feels like the ultimate indulgence. The delicate teacups, layered stands of finger sandwiches and warm scones, that first sip of a fragrant blend – it’s slow, it’s elegant, and it’s the perfect excuse to gather your favourite people for a beautiful afternoon.
As someone who never skips a high tea when I travel, I’ve made it my mission to try the best high tea on the Central Coast, and today I’m sharing my favourites with you. Whether you’re planning a girls’ day out, celebrating something special like mothers day, or just looking to treat yourself, these Central Coast spots deliver big on both flavour and charm.
And if you’re making a full day of it, don’t forget to explore some of the Coast’s best experiences – think the stunning Bouddi Coastal Walk, lunch at one of the many Terrigal restaurants, or a coffee crawl through the best Central Coast cafes.
Related: “The Reef Experience, Fine Dining on the Central Coast“
Kew Dining – Erina Heights
This hidden gem inside the luxurious Kew Dining is home to one of the most beautiful high teas on the Coast. It’s modern, refined, and just a little bit fancy – without losing that warm, local feel. Their seasonal high tea includes house-made pastries, sweets, savouries, and a beautiful selection of teas (and bubbles, if you’re in the mood!).
For one of the most elegant Central Coast high tea experiences, Kew Dining in Erina Heights is a must. Set on their leafy terrace overlooking the lush green valley, it’s the perfect spot to linger over an afternoon of indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat yourself, Kew Dining combines stunning views with a refined high tea offering.
The menu balances traditional favourites with creative, seasonal touches. Think sweetcorn and crab samosas, smoked salmon and cream cheese bagels, prawn cocktails, and heirloom tomato, feta and baby spinach quiches.
These savoury delights are followed by light, fluffy scones served with thick clotted cream and strawberry jam, along with decadent sweets such as white chocolate macarons, apple crumble, vanilla bean cheesecake, lemon curd tartlets, and even a classic sherry trifle.
Every element is beautifully presented on fine bone china, with white linen and fresh flowers completing the experience.
Priced at $45 per person, Kew’s high tea also includes sparkling on arrival and your choice of T2 loose-leaf teas or Toby’s Estate coffee. The menu changes with the seasons, but always stays true to their philosophy of fresh, modern indulgence. With capacity for up to 30 guests, it’s an ideal venue for bridal showers, birthdays, or just a long, leisurely afternoon catching up with friends.
Merribella – Terrigal
Located in the heart of Terrigal, Merribella is elegant with a coastal twist. The fine-dining Terrigal restaurant is located on the second floor of the Crowne Plaza Hotel, and although it leans more towards a nighttime experience, its high tea is one of the best on the Central Coast!
The high tea menu is luxurious and ever-changing, featuring local ingredients and beautifully crafted treats. It’s perfect for a special occasion or just to feel a little fancy on a weekend. I recently visited with my mum and two sisters for a mothers Day treat!
Terrigal itself is buzzing with things to do – once you’ve had your fill of scones and champagne, explore the local boutiques or stroll along the beach promenade. You’ll also be spoiled for choice with nearby Terrigal restaurants for dinner if you’re not ready for the day to end.
Meribella’s high tea is nothing short of a culinary celebration, blending classic elegance with imaginative twists. From the first bite to the last sip, each dish is crafted with care, plated beautifully, and bursting with seasonal flavours.
The sweet selection was a delicate balance of traditional favourites and inventive creations. Lemon-scented scones arrived, they were a bit small and dry, which was disappointing because scones is always my favourite part of high tea. They were served with a glossy mixed berry jam and clouds of Chantilly cream – the perfect nod to high tea tradition.
A decadent Irish cream and chocolate salted caramel tart delivered a rich, velvety bite with just the right hint of salt to cut through the sweetness. The almond cinnamon madeleine was lightly spiced, soft in the centre, and perfect alongside tea.
The standout was the ricotta and balsamic roasted strawberry tart, a stunning combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet. For something a little unexpected, the rosemary panna cotta with cherries in red wine offered an aromatic, herbaceous twist on a dessert classic.
The savouries were impressive, offering refined flavours and satisfying textures. Started with a chicken mayonnaise, celery, and walnut finger sandwich, which brought freshness and crunch in every bite. On to the roast beef, Stilton tart was rich, earthy, and utterly moreish.
We loved the mushroom and truffle arancini – crisp on the outside, creamy inside, and paired with a bright roast cherry tomato compote.
My favourite was the lobster roll on a buttery brioche slider, which, as you can imagine, was indulgent and melt-in-your-mouth!
Meribella were able to accommodate a beautiful vegan high tea for my mum, showcasing creativity and flavour without compromise.
A pistachio and mint slice offered a refreshing, nutty sweetness.
The nut fudge brownie was dense, rich, and perfectly indulgent.
Sweet potato croquettes with Middle Eastern spices were crisp and aromatic.
A vegan Victorian sponge layered with mixed berry jam and icing was light yet satisfying.
Eggplant and zucchini sandwiches were fresh and full of flavour.
The stewed cherry tomatoes added a vibrant burst of acidity.
An artichoke and spinach pastry roll spiced with Middle Eastern flavours rounded out the savoury selection beautifully.
From the attentive service to the artfully presented dishes, Meribella’s high tea was a highlight of our Central Coast food adventures – perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a slow afternoon by the sea.
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6 Responses
That looks absolutely delightful! I think the salted caramel macarons would be my favourite. So elegant and dreamy.
Epic waterfront table you had reserved for yourself. I will take a few bacon & corn frittatas. Nom!
This is a dream for afternoon tea lovers like myself. Espresso martini- say what? 😉 The canapés sound wonderful while my heart would do flip-flops over the lamb crostini and the corn & bacon frittata! Yum!
You had me at chocolate mini muffins. High Tea at the Cofe Cafe sounds lovely.
Cocktail high tea! Love the idea! I’ve not seen that before. It’s been a long, long time since I’ve gone to a high tea. Love the sound of the Mexican Mango Chilli tea, and the view!
That’s my favourite kind of meal! And I’d like to see high tea named as the next main meal right up there with breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner!!