There’s only one thing we love more than tea and that’s afternoon tea, because we can pair our calming cuppa with a delicious treat. But let’s level up another notch and talk about a REAL afternoon tea, served the way it was originally intended at the concept’s ‘birthplace’, The Langham, London. Yes friends, it’s time to practice your proper tea drinking etiquette and embrace this quintessential British experience with a GC twist at the brand new, splendidly luxe hotel, The Langham, Gold Coast in Surfers Paradise.
Served daily in the stunning Palm Court, you’re invited to indulge in delectable savouries and pastries created by the hotel’s world-class pastry chefs. While you devour the signature delicate finger sandwiches and an array of sweet and savoury delights, you’ll feel all the feels at this fancy five-star newcomer. In addition to the Champagne (because no afternoon tea ritual is complete without bubbles), soak up the refined beauty and grand coastal style of your surroundings with sparkling lagoon pool and ocean views.
Let’s set the scene and unpack why The Langham’s flagship hotel, The Langham, London, is touted as THE home of the traditional Afternoon Tea. Famous for hosting royal-tea, artists and celebri-teas alike, this swish establishment was the very first of the Grand Hotels to offer an afternoon tea to the public in 1865. A distinctive experience with The Langham tea blends and expert tea sommeliers, it pioneered a new level of culinary fancy, and is yet another reason why The Langham brand is so iconic.
Bringing it back to our beautiful city though, we have Executive Pastry Chef extraordinaire Ryan Stevenson in the driver’s seat and sir, we salute you! Twice awarded Belgium Chocolate Master, maker of the 2009 Best Praline in the World and he’s the only Aussie to have been the Director of a Chocolate Academy. He’s also an ex-pastry chef for Belgian chocolate brand Callebaut and enjoyed a stint as Head Pastry Chef at a 3-Michelin star restaurant in Belgium. But we’re not done, because this legend is the team captain for the Australian Pastry Team as they prep for the World Pastry Cup in 2023 and seriously, if you look up overachiever in the dictionary, it says Ryan’s name.
Highlights of afternoon tea at The Langham include Fraser Coast Spanner Crab Salad with Bowen mango, shrimp caviar and gougeres, and the Free Range Duck Egg Brioche Roll with whole grain mustard, cress and Australian black truffle. Sweet tooths will revel in the deliciousness of Vanilla Moelleux topped with mandarin compote and of course, an obligatory serving of Scones, served with white “velvet” cream, lemon curd and strawberry rhubarb preserves. Wash it all down with your choice of fine coffees and Teas by Jing and is this not the perfect way to spend an afternoon?!
Our final tip? Don’t sashay into The Langham requesting a “high tea” because darling, just no. Afternoon tea is entirely different as it encompasses ‘lighter’ ingredients and is served earlier than a high tea. Which is traditionally served from 6pm (unlike how we serve it here on the GC), and we think this intel will surely come in handy at Trivia one day.
So for a bespoke experience paying homage to the grand nature of the OG afternoon tea…. but with an injection of modern coastal charm…. join the glitterati, jump in your (most likely imaginary) Aston Martin, and head to The Langham, Gold Coast.
For bookings, click here. From $79 per adult Monday to Friday, and from $89 per adult Saturday and Sunday.
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
When: 2pm – 5pm Monday – Sunday (last seating at 4pm)
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE LANGHAM, GOLD COAST
Get ready to don those designer shades, your fanciest parfum (eau de toilette just won’t cut it) and Sunday best outfit because folks; because a swanky and uber-sophisticated 5-star hotel is opening on Thursday 23rd June. Overlooking the breathtaking beaches of the GC, the hotly anticipated unveiling of The Langham will redefine luxury as we know it. Bringing a wave of unprecedented posh to our ‘hood, we’re more pumped than a Kardashian at a Met Gala.
Brought to us by visionary luxe-perts, The Langham Hospitality Group, their newest Australian offering boasts sophisticated grandeur for days. The 339-room lavish hotel is the tallest of the three eye-catching Jewel Residences towers (also managed by Langham and sharing the launch day limelight on 23rd June), standing loud and proud between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. And stop the press, because there’s a fun fact incoming… It’s the first development with direct beachfront access to be built on the GC in more than three decades. We reckon that deserves a nod and if we weren’t sold on a staycation here before (we were), we sure as heck are now!
With 17 different types of rooms and suites, ALL with striking designs, breathtaking ocean and celebrated Hinterland views, The Langham is quite the showstopper. Set to knock the socks off locals, interstate travellers and international tourists alike, it promises an unmatched level of timeless elegance with all the VIP trimmings.
Guests will be wooed with a fitting modern coastal palette, beautiful ginger flower fragrance, and artwork by globally celebrated Australian sculptor and artist, Camie Lyons. But, that’s not even the highest high-brow offering because drumroll please, every single person who stays at this Rolls Royce of resorts will be privy to the signature Langham Service Stylist. Tasked with making every guest feel like a highflyer, their job description includes anticipating needs, gift prepping, managing all stay-related bookings and reservations, and providing recommendations on just about anything. Umm, can we borrow one for everyday life please and thank you?!
The luxury experience doesn’t stop there, with fancy-pants facilities including a pool bar (our love language) and a range of exquisite food and beverage venues. These include Palm Court, home to the world’s first-afternoon tea in a Grand Hotel and celebrated with the famous Langham Afternoon Tea, 26 & Sunny (best.name.ever) and the all-day dining goodness of Akoya.
The foodie-friendliness is set to continue with the addition of T’ang Court – sister venue to the internationally renowned Michelin-starred restaurants – pencilled for Spring. Also on the must-visit hitlist later in the year is The Langham’s open-air bar Coral Moon, and for a bit of R&R, Chuan Spa. Harnessing a holistic wellness concept born from the ancient healing philosophies of Traditional Chinese Medicine, we’re always here for anything pro-pamper.
We suggest booking stat before the opening offer is no longer on the table which includes a guaranteed ocean view, complimentary buffet breakfast for two and welcome cocktails upon arrival. So go on, treat yo’self and book in for a visit to The Langham for a spellbinding, deluxe stay or eats experience guaranteed to fill your (fancy) cup. (And set your social feeds ablaze!)
Reservations can be made at www.langhamhotels.com/goldcoast.
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
When: Bookings are available now. Opening Thursday 23rd June 2022.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Know what time it is? No, not hammer time but Langham time! Thursday 23rd June, the GC’s long-awaited luxury hotel The Langham, Gold Coast (along with Jewel Residences also managed by the luxe-perts at Langham), will unleash a level of lavish we’ve only seen in the feeds of our fave cashed-up influencers! Only no filters required ladies and gents – this priceless gem between the jewels (quite literally) is pure posh perfection, with dining options of the same calibre thanks to a star-studded culinary team.
The Langham is dishing up hotel dining industry veteran Craig Robertson as Executive Chef, served with a side of Executive Sous Chef David Vandenabeele, and for dessert/all things pastry (our weakness), Executive Pastry Chef Ryan Stevenson.
For ‘starters’ (pun totally intended), Craig Robertson boasts over 35 years’ industry experience and 20 years’ as an Executive Chef leading large-scale teams in luxury hotel environments. Translation, the man can cook anyone under the table…or the Gaggenau oven. Robertson’s most recent gig was Executive Chef at InterContinental Hayman Island Resort where he led the Culinary Operations across multiple outlets with diverse, international cuisines.
Like we mentioned, joining this icon is Executive Sous Chef David Vandenabeele. Originally from Belgium, David has over 25 years of experience in Michelin Star fine dining and luxury hotels across the world, including Belgium, Australia, London and New York. Most recently leading the F&B pre-opening operations for the launch of the first Curio hotel brand in Australia, this star is definitely Langham-worthy.
And the icing on the cake is Executive Pastry Chef Ryan Stevenson, two-time recipient of the Belgium Chocolate Master, plus maker of the 2009 Best Praline in the World. Ryan was previously Pastry Chef for Belgian chocolate brand, Callebaut, Head Pastry Chef at a 3-Michelin star restaurant in Belgium, and is currently team captain for the Australian Pastry Team prepping for the 2023 World Pastry Cup. What a résumé!
Together the exceptional team have created unique culinary offerings across the variety of new Langham Gold Coast dining venues. These range from a humble club sandwich and decadent buffets through to Japanese robatayaki, Michelin-starred Cantonese cuisine, and award-winning cocktails. No prizes for guessing which of the above we’ll be sampling first….cheers!
So, if anyone can deliver a world-class dining experience to elevate your senses, it’s this trio. Forming an integral part of the overall luxury experience for guests, the extensive range of dining options will provide a cohesive feeling of luxe. Plus, there is a strong focus on sustainable produce, and a collaboration with local suppliers to create a bespoke Langham experience unparalleled on the Gold Coast.
So do yourself a favour, and book yourselves in for a deluxe stay-cay and sample all of our region’s finest eats venues, all in the one spectacularly flash hotel location. And when we say flash, we actually mean it because your phone’s camera will be in overdrive capturing all the highbrow glamour and style of The Langham, Gold Coast experience.
For reservations or to find out more about the experts leading The Langham, Gold Coast’s dining experiences, click here.
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise.
When: Bookings are available now. Official opening – Thursday 23rd June 2022.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE LANGHAM, GOLD COAST
Tiny little bites to eat are everyone’s favourite thing, and we believe it is because you can eat extra and not feel guilty. Well, that’s the reason for us anyway!
This is why High Tea is a good time. Plus, there’s often sparkling wine and bottomless tea and or coffee involved. What more could you want?
Here’s a list of the best spots for High Tea, High Cheese, High Coffee (and frankly any sort of High feast) on the Gold Coast next time you want to eat lots of tiny little things and also feel a bit fancy at the same time.
Pearls Bar
Less High Tea and more High Cheese is what’s up at Pearls Bar located inside Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort. Ignite your senses with a delicate selection of sweet and savoury treats. Indulge in the likes of Manchego with Turkish fig, Prawn Cocktail with spiced Marie Rose sauce, and a Strawberry and Rose Trifle to finish. Including a cup of tea or coffee, this exemplary summer High Tea is available from 12pm – 4pm daily and is $47.50 per head.
Where: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Le Jardin
It’s a Couture High Tea at Le Jardin in the exquisite Palazzo Versace, bringing a fashionable culinary experience to High Tea. Featuring bright colours, bold textures and distinct out-of-the-ordinary flavour combinations, including dishes like Smoked Chicken with brioche and caramelised onion goats cheese. There are five differing high teas, each with their distinct level of decadence prices range from $28.90 – $199.90pp. Numbers are capped, so make sure to book in advance!
Where: Palazzo Versace, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
The Fireplace
Indulge in High Coffee at The Fireplace, eating your way through three tiers of sweets and savouries inspired by and infused with rich Vittoria Single Origin Blend coffee notes. Take your High Tea to the next level with a decadent cocktail – our favourite options include the Espresso Martini (for obvious reasons) and the Smoking Hot Chocolate (because torched marshmallows). High coffee is served on Saturday and Sunday from 12.30pm and is $47pp, including tea and coffee. Availability is limited, so you’ll need to book in advance.
Where: The Fireplace, Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove
Teavine House
Indulge in an irresistible selection of exquisite sweet treats, petite savoury delights, and dainty ribbon sandwiches, all freshly made in-house and served on beautiful vintage tiered trays at Tallebudgera’s Teavine House. Set amongst stunning greenery, this is one of the most beautiful High Tea’s you’ll ever experience with fine food, artisan tea and an elegant setting. Traditional High Tea is $45 per person (minimum two person booking), including all the goodies you know and love like mini croissants, sandwiches and quiches plus scones and mini sweet treats. We will see you there!
Where: 268 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Tallebudgera
Bon Appetea Teahouse
Nestled in leafy Mudgeeraba, Bon Appetea Teahouse offers a charming atmosphere along with a High Tea option you’ll absolutely love. You have multiple options to choose from, ranging from a Luxe High Tea with Scones, jam and cream, a selection of petite patisseries, organic sandwiches and savoury bites with tea or coffee for $50 per person, or perhaps the Deluxe High Tea with delectable savoury inclusions like Lobster and smoked salmon mousse priced at $60 is more your thing? There’s also an option for the kiddies if you want to take them along ($25pp) or even a completely take away Picnic High Tea, however, you must book with at least 24 hours notice!
Where: 7 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba
Palette
As if a remarkable and ultra-contemporary new art gallery weren’t enough for HOTA, they then decided to spoil us completely with the inclusion of a cutting-edge fine-dining restaurant: Palette. Led by superstar Executive Chef Dayan Hartill-Law, the restaurant not only delights with multiple course lunches and dinners but now they bring to the table a decadent high-tea — perfect refuelling after checking out all that art! Next level items include Mulled wine scones with native berry jam and Brisket pastrami sandwiches, and it’s a steal at only $60 per person with a $15 supplement for a bubbly glass of Veuve Cliquot.
Where: HOTA Gallery, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Runway Restaurant and Bar at Rydges Gold Coast Airport
Relatively new to the Gold Coast and one many people still do not even know about is the Runway Restaurant & Bar. But this is to your detriment, people! The venue provides excellent food, drinks and an opportunity for some High Tea action. And this is where it gets interesting. Because you can choose between your Traditional High Tea with delicious cakes and bite-size treats for $65 for two people, or you can select their Man T and celebrate a bromance with beef sliders, man-size cakes, and hand-cut chips, it’s $75 for two with a schooner of beer each or $75 with soft drinks instead. Who said high tea is just for the girls?
Where: Terminal Drive, Bilinga
Mecca Bah
A firm favourite on the bustling social scene in Broadbeach — and for good reason. Amongst bottomless brunches, banquets, and takeaway menus, you’re hard pushed to find a better taste of the Middle East. So, round up three of your friends (4 person minimum) and book in with 48 hours notice to taste the ultimate Middle Eastern High Tea experience, and you can enjoy the spoils of sweets like Turkish Delight and savoury temptations such as Kofte balls served with a mint yoghurt sauce. It’s $49 per person with a glass of sparkling on arrival and then unlimited tea and coffee afterwards! We are here for it!
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
Village B&B
This 114-year-old Queenslander simply oozes charm and heritage with so much history and character behind every door. Book in and stay in any one of their three rooms or make your way there to enjoy yourself an old-style high tea with lashings of appeal. Available Thursday to Sunday 11am – 3pm for a lowly $39 per person; you can taste your way through homemade quiche, assorted sandwiches, homemade scones, unlimited tea and the option for a barista-made coffee or even an iced chocolate/coffee if the mood takes you. Bookings are essential, go on, head to Mudgeeraba for a high tea with history!
Where: 65 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
Chapter and Verse
Located in the luxurious JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa, Chapter and Verse is the opulent all-day bar you can enjoy even if you’re not staying at the hotel. Amazing cocktails to one side; these guys really know how to push the boat out when it comes to high tea. There are three adult versions to go for: Traditional, High Seas, and High Cheese, and not forgetting a cute mini version for the little ones, Teeny Tiny Tea. Traditional is a snip at $64 per person with a glass of Chandon Brut or opt for the High Seas which is a sea-to-table experience you won’t want to miss and costs just $74 per person. With this you can expect all your seafood favourites like: oysters, prawns, Moreton Bay bugs, smoked salmon tartine with capers & dill and spanner crab sandwich. (Yessss, we are here for this one!) Ohh but if you like your cheese, ALL of the cheese awaits you with their High Cheese which is just $64 per person.
Where: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Greendays
When it comes to a secluded and withdrawn oasis to enjoy some alfresco dining action, then Greendays in Bundall should be very high up on your list of places to go. Renowned for the unique weddings and functions they throw, you’re also able to enjoy the space yourself seven days a week from 7am! And these guys don’t cut any corners. For just $45 per person, you can enjoy an assortment of housemade macarons, raspberry chocolate cheesecake and pork and chive sausage rolls and throw in a glass of French bubbles for an extra $10. There’s a separate vegan high tea, high cheese and junior high teas available also – so don’t stress, everyone will be looked after!
Where: 8/6 Ashmore Road, Bundall
Tea and Niceties
Found on Mt Tamborine, Tea and Niceties offers exactly that within a beautiful rainforest setting. Traditional High Tea is $49 per person and provides a selection of sandwiches and warm savouries, Scones with jam, cream and lemon curd and delicate cakes, slices and tartlets with tea from the signature collection or plunger coffee. Celebrations High Tea offers the same with endless tea or coffee and a glass of sparkling wine for $65pp, while the Wellbeing High Tea offers gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan goodies plus tea and coffee for $55pp. All High Teas are made fresh on-site, and bookings are essential. This all sounds pretty heavenly to us!
Where: 32 Eagle Heights Road, Eagle Heights
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
