Globe Bar

The grandfather clock strikes three as I cross the stately wood-panelled room, and sink into a comfy, upholstered chair. It’s luxurious, but in a not-flamboyant way that my own Grandmother probably would have liked. I think she’d also have enjoyed taking her tea from Langham Rose, the hotel’s own custom-made Wedgwood china. What she might not have been quite so keen on, are the flat scones presented on our three-tiered Tiffin Afternoon Tea ($49/head). Despite the offering here stemming from London’s Langham Hotel – the spot credited with starting the whole afternoon tea phenomenon back in 1865 – the scones don’t match up to the light, airy beauties I’ve enjoyed courtesy of our Country Women’s Association. With Nanna not actually here to frown, I take my afternoon tea with Laurent-Perrier Champagne ($64/head). The platter’s highlight – a freshly baked strawberry tart housed in perfectly square pastry casing – makes me wish I’d paired it with the slightly pricier strawberry note of Laurent-Perrier Rosé Champagne ($69/head). The rest of my afternoon passes in a whirlwind of cucumber sandwiches, smoked salmon rolls and fancy (but not unfamiliar) pastries, including little pots of crème brûlée. It’s delivered with silver service finesse that ensures you don’t even lift a finger to pour your own tea.

Globe Bar
The Langham, 89-113 Kent Street, Sydney
Ph: (02) 9256 2222 sydney.langhamhotels.com.au
High Tea $$$$