High tea has long been a cherished tradition, evolving over centuries from English aristocratic customs to a globally celebrated experience. Today, it is a sophisticated social event enjoyed worldwide, especially in Australia, where high tea has become a popular afternoon indulgence. 

The History of High Tea 

The origins of tea culture in England trace back to the 17th century. It is believed that Charles II, having spent time in exile in The Hague, was introduced to the custom of tea drinking. When he married Catherine of Braganza, a Portuguese noblewoman, she brought with her a deep appreciation for tea. Known as England’s first “Tea-Drinking Queen,” Catherine helped popularize the ritual among the English elite. 

In its early days, tea was often enjoyed in a lady’s private chamber, surrounded by fine porcelain, symbolising wealth and refinement. The first recorded formal tea service emerged during the reign of Queen Anne, who preferred a large silver teapot over traditional Chinese teapots, setting a new standard for English tea culture. 

While Catherine of Braganza made tea fashionable, afternoon tea as a social occasion developed later, in the 1830s and 1840s. There are even hints of this emerging tradition in an unfinished novel by Jane Austen. 

What is High Tea Today? 

While traditionally, “high tea” referred to a more substantial early evening meal for the working class, today, the term has evolved. In Australia, high tea is an elegant afternoon affair, served between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, featuring: 

• Freshly baked scones with jam and cream 

• Delicate finger sandwiches 

• Macarons, cupcakes, and petit fours 

• Boutique loose-leaf teas and, in some cases, champagne or sparkling wine 

Modern high tea in Sydney blends elements of cream tea, low tea, and royale tea, creating an indulgent experience enjoyed with sophistication and style. 

High Tea Etiquette: How to Drink Tea Properly 

How to Hold a Teacup 

• If your cup does not have a handle, hold it with your thumb at the six o’clock position and your index and middle fingers at twelve o’clock, using your pinkie for balance. 

• If your teacup has a handle, grip it gently between your fingers, with your pinkie slightly raised for elegance—but not sticking straight up! 

• Never wave or hold your teacup mid-air; always return it to the saucer when not drinking. 

How to Stir Tea Properly 

• Do not stir your tea in wide circular motions. Instead, place your teaspoon at the six o’clock position and gently fold the tea toward the twelve o’clock position two or three times. 

• Never leave your teaspoon in the cup while drinking—place it neatly on your saucer. 

Pinkies Up? The Truth Behind the Myth 

The tradition of raising one’s pinkie originated from early Chinese porcelain teacups, which had no handles. It was not a status symbol but rather a practical way to balance the cup and avoid spills. Today, a slight pinkie tilt is considered graceful, but an exaggerated “pinkies up” is unnecessary. 

Serving Tea: The Do’s and Don’ts 

Milk or No Milk? 

• Always use milk, not cream, as cream is too heavy and masks the tea’s delicate flavors. 

• Pour the milk in after the tea, ensuring the perfect balance. 

What to Do with a Tea Bag 

• If using a tea bag, remove it gently and place it on a side saucer or slop bowl—never squeeze it with the string. 

Serving Lemon in Tea 

• Use lemon slices, not wedges, for a refined presentation. 

• Never add lemon to tea that already has milk, as the acidity will cause it to curdle. 

Experience High Tea at Biviano’s 

For an elegant and timeless high tea experience, Biviano’s offers high tea on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, featuring fine British bone china and an exquisite selection of 30 teas. 

Book now: Call (02) 9651 2022
 

For more information about High Tea at Biviano’s, click here.