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Sydney

Tella Balls Dessert Bar: Sydney’s Best Dessert Spots

Tella Balls Dessert Bar: Sydney's Best Sweet Spots via christineknight.me

If you have a sweet tooth like me, then you might be similarly always on the hunt for the best dessert in Sydney.

Tella Balls Dessert Bar: Sydney's Best Sweet Spots via christineknight.me

I’ve been loving the Tella Ball shakes at Foodcraft Espresso & Bakery in Erskineville pretty hard since the Nutella-injected donuts perched on top of Nutella-flavoured milkshakes almost broke Instagram last year, so it was with great excitement that I heard the original creators of this delicious extravagance, Aki Daikos and Simon Kappatos, were opening a Tella Balls Dessert Bar in Dulwich Hill.

The Instagram pictures for the cafe have been killing me – particularly this gelato donut on a stick, which sells for $7. Sadly when I visited they didn’t have any for sale, but I guess that means there is a reason to go back next time?

Tella Balls Dessert Bar: Sydney's Best Sweet Spots via christineknight.me

There are no savoury dishes on the menu at the dessert bar – just sugar, sugar and more sugar. It is 100% a pure dessert bar.

Tella Balls Dessert Bar: Sydney's Best Sweet Spots via christineknight.me

As well as their signature Tell Balls and milkshakes, the dessert bar serves house-made gelato, Nutella layered lasagne, waffles, pancakes, and amazing sweets that feature Nutella heavily as a signature ingredient.

Tella Balls Dessert Bar: Sydney's Best Sweet Spots via christineknight.me

I visited on a week day before school let out to ensure we had a quiet dining experience. Even at midday on a Friday it was pretty busy, so I can imagine the cafe is a bit of a zoo on weekends.

Tella Balls Dessert Bar: Sydney's Best Sweet Spots via christineknight.me

My dining companion Jayne from Girl Tweets World and I ordered a few dishes to share between us. The Vanilla Tella Ball Shake with a Boston Custard Tella Ball on top ($10), the Ferraro Bowl (a smooth Ferraro Rocher mousse in a chocolate bowl served with vanilla bean gelato, $13), and the Ricotta and Blueberry Pancakes (2 stack buttermilk ricotta & blueberry pancakes topped with Canadian maple syrup and mascarpone, $16).

Tella Balls Dessert Bar: Sydney's Best Sweet Spots via christineknight.me

The vanilla shake was excellent, and the donut on top fluffy with a very tart custard inside. We were a bit regretful not to have ordered the Nutella one seeing as it’s the signature shake, but sometimes it’s good to brand out and try new things, right?

Tella Balls Dessert Bar: Sydney's Best Sweet Spots via christineknight.me

The Ferraro Bowl looked incredibly sweet, but surprisingly wasn’t. I really appreciated this, as even though I love all things chocolate, I can’t handle feeling ill after injecting myself full of dessert these days. I really particularly enjoyed the crisp chocolate shell with nut shards on it, and its pairing with the refreshing vanilla bean gelato.

Tella Balls Dessert Bar: Sydney's Best Sweet Spots via christineknight.me

I deliberately ordered the pancakes that did not have Nutella as I thought I couldn’t handle more chocolate after the Ferraro Bowl, and it was a good move when they were all on the table in front of us, with our dining companions looking on in … horror? awe? Who can tell!

The pancakes were excellent. Not super-fluffy, but a good size, and nicely soaked with maple syrup. I found the double serve of cheese a bit too much for me – I didn’t love the ricotta with this dish, and could have just done very nicely with the mascarpone and blueberries. I love fruit with my pancakes, so the huge amount of blueberries it was served with did me very nicely.

Tella Balls Dessert Bar: Sydney's Best Sweet Spots via christineknight.me

I would love to go back on another day to try more dishes from the menu. Tell me if you go and what you try.

Tella Balls Dessert Bar: Sydney's Best Sweet Spots via christineknight.me

Highchairs: Yes.
Stroller storage: Yes.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: No.

Tella Balls Dessert Bar
372 New Canterbury Rd,
Dulwich Hill
Prices: $$$
Hours: Sun-Thur 11am-10pm, Fri & Sat 11am-11pm
Get Directions

Tella Balls Dessert Bar Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

MCA Cafe & Sculpture Terrace: Kid-Friendly Restaurants, Sydney

MCA Cafe via christineknight.me

A kid-friendly restaurant in Sydney’s CBD is quite a find. We end up spending a lot of time around Circular Quay at the Sydney Opera House, the AGNSW and the MCA, so are always in search of Sydney’s best kid-friendly cafes in these areas.

MCA Cafe via christineknight.me

On our recent visit to the MCA we tried their rooftop cafe, which I previously didn’t even know existed. To get to the cafe, enter through any of their regular entrances, then take the elevator to the 4th floor. Entrance to the general exhibitions at the MCA is free, so you won’t need to pay if you stop along the way to check out some art.

MCA Cafe via christineknight.me

MCA Cafe via christineknight.me

When you reach the top floor of the MCA, turn right to enter the cafe and sculpture terrace. Dining is casual, so grab menus at the front, choose a table, then order and pay at the counter.

MCA Cafe via christineknight.me

MCA Cafe via christineknight.me MCA Cafe via christineknight.me

The cafe currently has a British Grayson Perry-inspired menu, running at the same time as the gallery has the Grayson Perry exhibition on downstairs. I love themed menus, so this was a fun, unexpected bonus. The menu was a celebration of all things British, such as Devonshire tea & scones, crumpets, fish & chips, bangers and mash, or their Little Pretty Eton Mess.

MCA Cafe via christineknight.me

I chose the Honeyed Oats, Summer Berries, Elderflower, Yoghurt & Pistachio ($12),
Alec had the Roasted Salmon (with green beans, roast potatoes & lemon, $28), and Cheese selected the Battered Fish & Chips ($14) from the kids’ menu.

MCA Cafe via christineknight.me MCA Cafe via christineknight.me

While we were waiting for our meals, Cheese amused herself by checking out the giant sculpture on the terrace, while we admired the view. Not too shabby, eh?

My honeyed oats were really delicious, but I did find them to be a tad dry and would have liked more yogurt. I thought the dish was colourful and beautiful, and really tasty. Alec’s salmon was crispy on the outside and moist on the inside, and Cheese’s fish and chips were also a winner. The portion was so big it would have done an adult who wanted a smallish-sized lunch.

MCA Cafe via christineknight.me MCA Cafe via christineknight.me MCA Cafe via christineknight.me MCA Cafe via christineknight.me MCA Cafe via christineknight.me

After our brunch we strolled downstairs to take part in the free drop in craft session for kids. The MCA usually has a kid-friendly component to their major exhibitions where little ones can experiment with different materials in the spirit of the big show, which, in this case, was Grayson Perry’s “My Pretty Little Art Career”.

MCA Drop In Art For Kids via christineknight.me MCA Drop In Art For Kids via christineknight.me

With the stunning view, free admission to the MCA plus the also-free art-making session, this was one extremely good value restaurant, perfect for kids, right in the heart of Sydney.

Highchairs: Yes.
Stroller storage: Yes.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: Yes.

MCA Cafe
140 George St,
The Rocks
Phone: (02) 9250 8443
Prices: $$$
Hours: Daily 10am–4pm, Thur 10am–9pm
Get Directions

MCA Cafe & Sculpture Terrace Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Babies Prom: Music For Tutus

Babies Proms: Music for Tutus via christineknight.me

The first Babies Prom of the year, Music for Tutus is the perfect way for littlies 2-5 to experience ballet for the first time. Held in the intimate Studio inside the Sydney Opera House, tiny tots are invited to watch, dance and direct the performers throughout the show – making it a stress-free way for families introducing their children to the arts.

Babies Proms: Music for Tutus via christineknight.me

This gorgeous performance features music by the famous composer, Tchaikovsky, with two ballet dancers pirouetting their way through melodies from The Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, and an orchestra including a stunning harp, cello, violins and conductor. The two dancers, Emma and Jacob, led their rapt audience through the three ballets in a way that showcased their skills as well as engaged small children with short attention spans.

Babies Proms: Music for Tutus via christineknight.me

The classical music, performed by the Babies Proms orchestra, swept not just the children, but the adults, too, up on an enchanting discovery of three of Tchaikovsky’s best-loved pieces of music.

Babies Proms: Music for Tutus via christineknight.me

The Babies Proms are aimed at children aged 2-5, but this doesn’t mean that kids older or younger won’t enjoy the show. Babies and grade schoolers alike were enchanted by the beautiful dancing and music, along with parents and grandparents. This parent will admit to feeling a tear come to her eye when the score to Swan Lake was soaring through the Studio.

Babies Proms: Music for Tutus via christineknight.me

As the show came to a close, the dancers came down to the children and led them through basic ballet steps, much to the delight of the tulle-clad masses who jostled to get up closer to the pair in their stunning costumes.

Babies Proms: Music for Tutus via christineknight.me

Sadly all good things must come to an end, and Music For Tutus ended in the same fashion as all Babies Proms do, with the children being invited to meet the musicians, touch their instruments and pose for photos. Cheese has just started playing the cello at school, so this was a wonderful experience for her to hear a professional cellist live and realise where a lot of practice on this instrument could one day take her.

Babies Proms: Music for Tutus via christineknight.me

Kids can ask the musicians questions – or just strum a string and image that they, too, could one day perform in front of an audience at the Sydney Opera House.

Babies Proms: Music for Tutus via christineknight.me

If you haven’t been to a Babies Prom before, this is what you need to know:

Babies Proms are aimed at kids aged 2-5.

They are casual performances where adults sit around the sides of the studio, and kids sit on the floor in the middle. There is no pressure for kids to sit still or not talk – they are encouraged to dance, sing and interact with the performers.

The performance goes for 35 minutes, the perfect length for short attention spans.

All adults and children over 12 months need a ticket.

Seats are not numbered, so most people line up around half an hour before the start of the Babies Prom to ensure they get seats close to the floor where there kids will be seated.

There is stroller parking and baby change facilities in the foyer.

While train is the easiest way to get to the Sydney Opera House, you can also park in the car park underneath. Book online at Wilson Parking for a $9 weekend deal.

For lunch, grab a sandwich at the Sydney Opera House kiosk outside the theatre, or enjoy a sit down meal at Opera Kitchen on the lower concourse level. Their kids’ fish and chips is a winner.

Babies Proms: Music for Tutus via christineknight.me

Babies Proms: Music For Tutus
Dates: March 9-20, 2016
Studio, Sydney Opera House

Thank you to the Sydney Opera House for hosting us at this performance, and for use of some of their images by Dan Boud in this blog post. Photography during performances are not permitted.

La Mama del Gelato Anita, Chippendale

La Mama del Gelato Anita via christineknight.me

Is it possible to ever have too much gelato? I thought not. La Mama del Gelato Anita, also known colloquially as “Anita’s” began in a small Mediterranean kitchen, almost 20 years ago, by Mama Anita. From selling ice cream out of her home with the help of her son, Anita progressed to an ice cream cart, local market, and then her first store. What started out as a little home run business is now an international chain, with stores from New York to Australia.

La Mama del Gelato Anita via christineknight.me

Mama Anita still gives every new flavour her stamp of approval before it’s sold in stores.

In Australia, Anita’s serves gelato and frozen yogurt. They have a range of classic flavours like pistachio, chocolate and strawberry, but the most popular are imaginative blends like pavlova and Cookieman, a mash up of chocolate, hazelnuts, meringue and biscuit.

La Mama del Gelato Anita via christineknight.me

If you like fruity gelato, you’ll be happy to hear they are all fat-free and made with 70% fruit with no added sugar or fructose. There is also sugar-free gelato available.

La Mama del Gelato Anita via christineknight.me

All of the gelato is churned daily on the premise, where they produce around 250 litres a day.

La Mama del Gelato Anita via christineknight.me

Past the gelato is the unlimited frozen yogurt section. There is one flavour of frozen yogurt available – plain – to which you can add as many of the 54 toppings as you like. You can eat all the toppings off and then go back for more. Options include house made jams, lollies and fresh fruit.

La Mama del Gelato Anita via christineknight.me

I ordered the Cookieman and Marscarpone with Blueberry (regular size, $8). The serve was pretty big so great value. I loved the Cookieman best. It was actually all of our favourite, which was surprising for Alec, who doesn’t like chocolate ice cream. All the flavours were light and fluffy, and not too sweet (even the chocolate one).

La Mama del Gelato Anita via christineknight.me La Mama del Gelato Anita via christineknight.me

Highchairs: No.
Stroller storage: Yes.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: No.

La Mama del Gelato Anita
Ground Floor, Central Park, 28 Broadway,
Chippendale, Sydney, NSW
Phone: (02) 8097 8508
Prices: $$
Hours: Daily 7am-11pm
Get Directions

La Mama del Gelato Anita Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

10 Awesome Animal Experiences Sydney

Animal Experiences Sydney Australia

Whether you’re visiting or are lucky enough to call the city home, a visit to one of Sydney’s zoos or farms to see wildlife and farm animals up close is a fantastic day out with kids. Scroll down to find a selection of the best animal experiences Sydney. 

We have plenty of wildlife to be spotted around Sydney as well, in our national parks and gardens. 

The Best Animal Experiences Sydney

Taronga Zoo

A Guide to #Taronga Zoo With Little Kids #Sydney via brunchwithmybaby.com
The big daddy of zoos, Taronga is the perfect day trip for visitors to Sydney with its superb harbour views. Situated on 52-acres, you’ll need a full day to get around to all 4,000 of the animals residing there. Take the ferry from Circular Quay and catch the Sky Safari cable car up to the top entrance, then walk your way back down. Watch the daily QBE Free-flight Bird Show to see condors and eagles in action, set against the stunning Sydney Harbour.

Get more info on visiting Taronga Zoo here and their new African Savannah precinct here.

Taronga Zoo, Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman
Taronga.org.au

Symbio Wildlife Park

#Symbio #Wildlife Park via brunchwithmybaby.com
This smaller zoo is great for getting up close with Australian native animals. It will take you around an hour to get around, so it’s an easy activity with smaller kids. The kangaroo/wallaby enclosure is excellent – pat and feed these free roaming animals, who are very happy to pose for a picture. If you’re after animal encounters in Sydney, then Symbio is an excellent choice.

Get more info on visiting Symbio here.

Symbio Wildlife Park, Lawrence Hargrave Dr, Helensburgh NSW
Symbiozoo.com.au

Featherdale Wildlife Park

Featherdale #Wildlife Park #Sydney #Australia via brunchwithmybaby.com
Specialising in Australian native wildlife and birds, Featherdale is the number one spot to meet koalas in Sydney. You can also feed wallabies and kangaroos, pat farmyard animals and get close to animals like Tasmanian devils and wombats. Featherdale now offer experiences to meet animals up close for additional fees.

Get more info on visiting Featherdale here.

Featherdale Wildlife Park, 217 Kildare Rd, Doonside
Featherdale.com.au

Calmsley Hill City Farm

#Calmsley Hill City Farm via brunchwithmybaby.com
City slicker kids can enjoy a day on the farm watching shearing and cattle dog displays, taking a tractor ride and patting the farm animals. The day is schedule with hourly show times, so arrive early and enjoy a full-day of farm activities.

Get more info on visiting Calmsley Hill here.

Calmsley Hill City Farm, 31 Darling St, Abbotsbury
Calmsleyhill.com.au

Golden Ridge Animal Farm

Golden Ridge Animal Farm #Sydney via christineknight.me
The number one place in Sydney for kids to get a hands-on experience with farm animals in Sydney. Bookings are essential, as only limited numbers are allowed on the farm each day. The experience begins in the morning with a farm tour, where your group is taken around various areas of the property to hold ducklings and chicks, bottle-feed lambs and meet the incredibly friendly goats and cows.

Get more info on visiting Golden Ridge here.

Golden Ridge Animal Farm, 686 Old Northern Rd, Dural
Goldenridgeanimalfarm.com.au

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

#sealife #sydney #aquarium #australia via brunchwithmybaby.com
At time of writing, the aquarium is home to the only pair of rescued dugongs on display in the world. The pair, Pig and Wuru, were orphaned at birth and have been unsuitable for release. The aquarium’s newest zone, Jurassic Seas, takes visitors on a journey back through time to meet prehistoric creatures. SEA LIFE Sydney also offers a penguin expedition boat ride to get up close to the Gentoo and King penguins. Get more info on the Penguin Expedition here.

Get more info on visiting SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium here.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney
Sydneyaquarium.com.au

Wild Life Sydney Zoo

Wild Life Sydney Zoo via christineknight.me
Ideal for visitors with limited time in Sydney, this small zoo features Australian native animals right in the heart of the city. Meet a five-metre crocodile (from a safe distance!), pat a tiny sugar glider and watch it take flight, and walk among butterflies in their Butterfly Tropics enclosure.

Get more info on visiting Wild Life Sydney Zoo here.

Wild Life Sydney Zoo,
1-5 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour

Wildlifesydney.com.au

Sydney Zoo

Sydney Zoo

The newest kid on the block, Sydney Zoo opened in 2019 Sydney Zoo, the first new major zoo to be opened in Sydney for more than 100 years. Located in Western Sydney, Sydney Zoo is home to the largest Reptile and Nocturnal House in Australia, plus plenty of African animals, primates, Asian animals and, of cause, Aussie icons.

Get more info on visiting Sydney Zoo.

Sydney Zoo
700 Great Western Highway, Bungarribee
https://sydneyzoo.com/

Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park

Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park

Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park is a wildlife sanctuary on the Central Coast of NSW. It is located in Calga, which is about an hour to an hour-and-a-half from Sydney’s CBD.

The park is a sanctuary for animals who are unable to be released back into the wild. Also on the property are several Aboriginal sites with ancient petroglyphs.

Get more info on visiting the Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park.

Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park
1 Darkinjung Rd, Calga NSW

walkaboutpark.com.au

Australian Reptile Park

Sydney Day Trips: The Australian Reptile Park #sydneydaytrip #familytravel #australia

The Australian Reptile Park is located on the Central Coast of NSW, about an hour north of Sydney. Established in 1948, the park is a privately owned attraction featuring native Australian wildlife and other exotic, international species. You’ll also find all 11 of the deadliest snakes in the world at the Reptile Park!

Sydney Day Trips: The Australian Reptile Park #sydneydaytrip #familytravel #australia

We love their Kids 2 Keeper programs that run during the school holidays and allows kids to get up close to the animals and learn about their care and habitats.

Get more info on the Kids 2 Keeper program here and visiting the Australian Reptile Park here.

Australian Reptile Park
Lot 69 Pacific Hwy, Somersby
reptilepark.com.au

Where to Find the Best High Tea in Sydney

The Best High Teas In Sydney, Australia

High tea in Sydney is an elegant affair. Choose from 20 tested high teas, each with its own twist on the traditional British tradition. From high tea with a view in Sydney, to modern high tea, vegan high tea and the best value high tea in Sydney, there is a delicious tea to suit everyone. After careful testing, I present to you a selection of the best high teas in Sydney.

The Best High Tea In Sydney

InterContinental Sydney Double Bay High Tea

Intercontinental Double Bay High Tea, Sydney, Australia

Indulge in a luxe high tea at the Intercontinental Sydney Double Bay. Choose from the Signature High Tea, Oriental High Tea or Kids’ High Tea. High tea at the Intercontinental Sydney Double Bay is an elegant affair. Located upstairs in the Stillery, high tea is served daily between 11am and 4pm. 

The Signature High Tea comes with the perfect mix of savoury and sweet, with fresh sandwiches and pastries, warm scones and delicious sweets. The jam is sublime. The Kids’ High Tea features a chocolate pot and strawberries to dip in it.

Get more info on high tea at the InterContinental Sydney Double Bay here.

InterContinental Sydney Double Bay, 33 Cross Street, Double Bay

Burnt Orange

Burnt Orange, Mosman: Sydney's Best High Teas

The perfect spot for afternoon tea on the Northern Beaches area of Sydney. Enjoy delicious square sandwiches, fluffy scones with plenty of jam and cream, with delectable sweet treats such as the salted caramel and chocolate tart at this Mosman, North Shore, cafe. The balcony wrapping around Burnt Orange offers stunning harbour views, so request a prime spot when making your booking. Sit back and enjoy the view at one of the best spots for afternoon tea in Sydney.

Get more info on high tea at Burnt Orange.

Burnt Orange1109 Middle Head Rd, Mosman

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Indulge in a delicious high tea at the Four Seasons Sydney. Enjoy the perfect afternoon tea, offered at Mode Kitchen & Bar on the ground floor of the hotel.

Four Seasons High Tea Sydney

The Four Seasons high tea includes a three tiered platter with the perfect bite-sized savoury and sweet delicacies, plus your choice of tea or coffee. Scones are served separately on cute little glass stands with covers. 

Get more info on high tea at the Four Seasons.

Mode Kitchen & Bar, Ground Floor, Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
199 George Street, Sydney

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel: Sydney's Best High Teas

You’ll find fluffy fresh scones with vanilla bean cream, delicious sandwiches and savoury pastries, plus delectable sweets at the Radisson Blu high tea. The tea is topped with a pair of salted caramel swans that you’ll be torn between eating and taking home as a souvenir. The Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel also offers gluten-free, kids and vegan high tea.

Get more info on high tea, chocolate high tea and vegan high tea at the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney.

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney, 27 O’Connell St, Sydney

Gatehouse Tea Rooms, Parramatta

Gatehouse Tea Rooms: High Tea Parramatta

Enjoy high tea in the historic Gatehouse, located in beautiful Parramatta Park. Choose from a traditional high tea, savoury high tea or kids high tea. Gluten-free high tea, dairy-free high tea and vegan high tea are available.

Parramatta Park is rich in colonial history. In 2007 the park and Gatehouse building were granted World Heritage Listing by UNESCO.

Built in 1887, the Gatehouse is one of the oldest high tea venues in Australia, and my favourite spot for high tea in Parramatta.

Get more info on the Gatehouse Tea Rooms here.

Gatehouse Tea Rooms, Macquarie St Gatehouse, Parramatta Park, Parramatta

The Cortile, InterContinental Sydney

The Cortile, InterContintental: Sydney's best high teas via christineknight.me
A classic high tea served with a modern twist. High tea at the InterContinental is served inside the restored 1851 Treasury building, making it the most visually stunning building of all high tea locations. The sweets are tea-themed, such as the Jasmine Gold tea crème brulée.

Get more info on high tea at the InterContinental Sydney.

InterContinental Sydney, 117 Macquarie St, Sydney

Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park

Sheraton on the Park Buffet via christineknight.meChoose from a classic tea stand or the buffet high tea. Their high tea stands are often themed, such as the Fashion High Tea, or Christmas. The buffet is excellent quality and value at $49pp, and includes an ice cream station, fresh creme brulee, sandwiches, savouries, scones, crepes and platter after platter of sweet treats.

Get more info on high tea and the buffet high tea at Sheraton on the Park.

Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park, 161 Elizabeth St, Sydney

Gunners’ Barracks

Gunners' Barracks, Sydneyclassic high tea with the best view in Sydney. Ask for a seat on the balcony and watch out for kookaburras who like to swoop down and steal sandwiches. The scones are served fresh and warm, and the staff are outstanding. It’s hard to top this high tea, which is why you’ll need to book well in advance. The Gunners’ Barracks is known as one of the best high teas in Sydney.

Get more info on high tea at the Gunners’ Barracks.

Gunners’ Barracks, Suakin Dr, Mosman

Westin Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea

Westin Mad Hatter's Afternoon Tea via christineknight.me
Fall down the rabbit hole into a whimsical high tea land where all of the dishes are inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Enjoy delicacies such as the The Mad Hatter’s Hat (rich dark chocolate mud cake encased in chocolate icing) and The White Rabbit’s Pocket Watch (purple macaroon with a blueberry cream filling). Without a doubt, this is the most whimsical Sydney high tea!

Westin, Lobby Level, 1 Martin Place Sydney

The Langham Sydney

An Afternoon Tea With Wedgwood #Sydney via christineknight.me
Dining at the newly renovated Langham is an elegant affair. I enjoyed their Afternoon Tea with Wedgwood for Mother’s day last year, where a sophisticated high tea is served in Wedgwood china specifically designed for The Langham hotel. The environment is opulent and serene, the high tea full of tarts, tasty sandwiches and savouries. Do yourself a favour and book into the excellent Langham spa downstairs for a treatment after your tea is finished. The Langham often does really cute themed kids’ high teas in the school holidays, such as this Barbie one.

Get more info on high tea at The Langham Sydney.

The Langham Hotel, 89-113 Kent Street, Sydney

The Tea Room QVB

Afternoon Tea at the QVB: #hightea #kidfriendly #Sydney via christineknight.me
Set in the historic Queen Victoria Building, afternoon tea at the QVB is a popular outing. The Tea Room is owned by the same company as the Gunners Barracks, which ensures that both teas are of a high standard. Be sure to arrive hungry as the extremely efficient staff offer extra sandwiches once yours have run out. The Tea Room was my first and one of my all-time favourite high teas in Sydney.

Get more info on high tea at the Tea Room QVB.

The Tea Room QVB, 3, Queen Victoria Building, 455 George St, Sydney

The Tea Cosy

Tea Cosy: Sydney's Best Afternoon Teas #restaurants #Sydney via christineknight.me
A family owned and operated cafe tucked into the historic Rocks district of Sydney, The Tea Cosy boasts “Scones and tea like Nana used to make”. Choose from a wide variety of teas and scones, which will likely be the best you’ve ever tasted. Scones are served warm and fresh with house-made jams (that are available for purchase).

While the Tea Cosy no longer has their high tea option, it’s worth visiting for a tasting platter that includes delicious finger sandwiches such as egg and cucumber and cream cheese, plus a variety of scones and jam. The tea pot cosies are so cute you’ll be tempted to buy one of them, too. The Tea Cosy is our number one spot to return for a Sydney afternoon tea. In fact, I would go so far as to say the incredible quality of the scones and sandwiches at the Tea Cosy make it the best afternoon tea in Sydney.

Get more info on high tea at The Tea Cosy.

The Tea Cosy, 7 Atherden St, The Rocks NSW

Parliament House of New South Wales

High Tea at Parliament House via christineknight.me
The most exclusive high tea in Sydney, served only on the last Friday of each month, this is also the only high tea in Sydney that you’ll have to pass through a metal detector to gain admission. Dine in the Strangers’ Dining Room that is usually off-limits to the public, overlooking Hyde Park. The bocconcini tartlet with chive coulis was a fave, as were the sandwiches – with a second plate being delivered after the first was finished.

Get more info on high tea at Parliament House.

Parliament House of New South Wales, Parliament of New South Wales, 6 Macquarie Street, Sydney

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth High Tea with Christina Re

Archibald inspired high tea at the Sofitel Wentworth Sydney via christineknight.me
The Wentworth hotel has partnered with High Tea and Lifestyle designer Cristina Re to create beautiful high teas presented on the designer’s vintage-inspired Signature High Tea collection, adorned in 24 carat gold finishes.

The high teas are often themed in collaboration with Sydney’s art and culture scene – for example, when we dined on previous occasions, we enjoyed their limited edition Sleeping Beauty and Archibald high teas, which were in conjunction with the Australian Ballet and AGNSW. The Wentworth has the best value kids’ high teas around – at $40 they might sound a bit steep, but they are virtually identical to the adult ones so two or three kids could easily share one. The Sofitel Wentworth is home to some of the prettiest high tea in Sydney.

Get more info on one of the themed high teas at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth.

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, 61-101 Phillip Street, Sydney

Shangri-La Sydney

Shangri La Hotel Afternoon Tea via christineknight.me
Try the Traditional or Chocolate High Tea at the Shangri-La Sydney, created by their amazing Executive Pastry Chef, Anna Polyviou. As you’d expect from an innovative pastry chef, the pastries on this high tea stand are the most innovative and delicious you will find anywhere, including her famous carrot cake.

Get more info on high tea at the Shangri-La Sydney.

Shangri-La Hotel Sydney, 176 Cumberland St, Sydney

Coco Chocolate

Coco Chocolate High Tea via christineknight.me
Hard core chocolate lovers will enjoy this sweet-heavy high tea at Coco Chocolate’s studio and school location in Mosman. Sit outdoors and enjoy an informal high tea with a stunning view of the Sydney harbour. As befits a chocolate high tea, treats include a shot of hot chocolate, chocolate pistachio shortbread, florentines, scones with jam & cream, melting moments, flourless orange cakes, chocolate cakes, and, the star of the high tea, a selection of house-made chocolate. Bookings are essential as each tea is made to order.

Get more info on high tea at Coco Chocolate.

Coco Chocolate, Sydney Chocolate School and Coco Chocolate Studio, Past Burnt Orange and HMAS Penguin at Chowder Bay Rd turnoff, Building 21, 1110 Middle Head Road, Mosman


Vaucluse House Tea Rooms

vaucluse-house-high-tea-25
Take a trip back in time and dine at historic Vaucluse House. The sandstone mansion was built in the 1830s and is set in 10 hectares of picture perfect gardens stretching down to the harbour. The high tea features a delicious array of savoury tarts and sandwiches, fresh scones, and sweets that include a sugar-covered donut and delicate fairy-floss. After your tea, wander through the building or meet the farm animals out the back. There is plenty of space to roam in solitude and enjoy the serenity. Bookings essential.

Get more info on high tea at Vaucluse House Tea Rooms.

Vaucluse House Tea Rooms, Wentworth Rd, Vaucluse

Park Hyatt Sydney

Afternoon Tea at the Park Hyatt Sydney
Located on the waterfront and delivering a perfect view of Sydney Harbour, high tea at the Park Hyatt is the popular location for a groups such as a bridal showers. The high tea features finger sandwiches and quiche, warm scones with jam and cream, and mini cakes, tartlets and macarons. For larger groups, a private room is available.

Get more info on high tea at the Park Hyatt Sydney.

Park Hyatt Sydney, 7 Hickson Road The Rocks Sydney

High Tea at The Calyx, Royal Botanic Gardens

High Tea at the Calyx, Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney
The only high tea in Sydney set among the flowers! Enjoy a delicate high tea set against largest indoor green wall and surrounded by vibrant flowers. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 1:30-3:30pm, high tea lovers can indulge in finger sandwiches with smoked salmon and roast turkey, gourmet sausage rolls, fetta tartlets and sundried tomato arancini, plus sweet treats including French macaroons, mini cupcakes, chocolate brownies and warm scones with jam and cream. A glass of sparkling wine and a selection of T2 teas are included in the price. There’s also an option to upgrade to unlimited champagne. Cheers to that!

Read more about high tea at the Calyx here.

High Tea at The Calyx, The Royal Botanic Garden, Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney

Thanks to my high tea taster Havewheelchairwilltravel.net for the pic.

Boronia House

Boronia House, Sydney, NSW

Dine inside a Victorian mansion built in 1885 at Boronia House, situated on Sydney’s North Shore. The Classic High Tea Experience includes a selection of light breads, sophisticated savoury bites, house-made scones with double cream and jam, desserts and cakes, served with a choice of a T2 tea or coffee.

Kids aged 3-12 can enjoy the Little Ladies High Tea, which includes ham and cheese finger sandwich, scone with cream and jam, fairy bread, Remi’s homemade chocolate chip cookie, chocolate fondue with fresh fruit, homemade sweet treat of the day, mini pancake stack with maple syrup and a choice of T2 tea, hot chocolate, iced chocolate, fruit juice, pink lemonade or soft drink.

Boronia House, 624 Military Rd, Mosman

Sir Stamford at Circular Quay Hotel

Sir Stamford High Tea: Sydney Australia

Enjoy traditional high tea in the understated elegance of the Sir Stamford Circular Quay Hotel, located a few steps from the Sydney Opera House and a short walk to the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney.

Sir Stamford High Tea: Sydney Australia

The Sir Stamford high tea is unique in that several variations are offered. Choose from a traditional high tea, deluxe Devonshire tea, children’s high tea or “guilt-free” high tea, served with fresh Vegetable juice & Dilmah Tea Selection. All items on the guilt-free high tea have low saturated fat (no butter, cream) and are low sugar. Gluten-free can also be catered for.

We really enjoyed looking at the curios around the dining room, such as a hand-made model ship. This is a hotel that embraces its history, and a visit is like a trip back in time.

Read more about high tea at Sir Stamford here.

Sir Stamford at Circular Quay Hotel93 Macquarie Street, Sydney

Sydney's Best High Teas via chrisitneknight.me

Are there any high teas I’ve missed? Have I included your favourite afternoon tea in Sydney? I’d love to know where to try next!

 

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

The Early Start Discovery Centre: Australia’s First Children’s Museum

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me

Australia’s first children’s museum has opened in Australia! The Early Start Discovery Space in Wollongong is the country’s only dedicated “Children’s Museum”. Last weekend we drove the hour and a half south of Sydney to check it out and see what made it different from a regular play space.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me

The Early Start Discovery Space is located on, and operated by, the University of Wollongong. It was designed to teach children through play using interactive exhibits. It was created using educational resources and is mapped to the NSW Board of Studies K-6 Syllabus. The museum is suitable for kids from birth to age 12, with the lower level completely accessible and some of the best family bathrooms I’ve ever seen.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me

We visited on a bit of a dreary day and expected the place to be crawling with people. It wasn’t. We were happy surprised that while there was a constant buzz of people in the space, it was certainly not full or so busy that Cheese couldn’t try her hand at every single exhibit without having to wait her turn. I ran into a friend there who mentioned how busy it was that day, compared to during the week, so I imagine if you do visit on a week day you might have this entire magnificent space to yourself!

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me

The museum is spread across two floors, with each exhibit in a designated area. Upon entry we received a very helpful map which enabled us to plan our visit.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me

The majority of the exhibits are on the entry level:

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
Shipyard
Ahoy, it’s pirate play!

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
Tummy Tour
Crawl through a human digestive tract! In through the mouth, out through the … you get the picture.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
Construction Site
Learn about safety on building sites, dress up in a vest, hard hat and tool belt, and build the city. Kids can lay carpet tiles, place mortar and bricks in the house to build walls, or thread pipes and connectors into the frame.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
Market Place
Littlies will love “shopping” with realistic-looking groceries, and older kids can use a shopping list to collect their goods and then “buy” them.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
CreARTivity Space
The place for artists to let their imaginations go wild. This space also features daily educator-led activities.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
Book Nook
A quiet spot to enjoy a book or join story time activities.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
The Cave
Grab a torch and discover stalactites and stalagmites.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
Lights, Sound, Action!
Kids can dress up in costume and perform.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
Games Area
Big kid games like chess and giant Connect Four.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
Crawler’s Cubby
Soft play for babies plus gears for toddlers/preschoolers.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
The Pod
A 2 story interactive LCD screen where kids can be part of the story on the screen in front of them.

The Dig/Archeology was closed for maintenance on our visit.

Also scattered around the floor are little nooks with activities like building, threading and puppets.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me

The floor is a giant circle with the exhibits and amenities spread around the inside and outside edges of the circle. It’s fantastic as kids can literally run in circles here and find it endlessly entertaining to start over at the exhibits they already discovered as they entered. Hours of fun, guaranteed.

Upstairs are activities best suited for slightly older kids.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
Digital Media Lab
Kids can learn how to create an eBook, an ePoster, video and editing

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me
Galileo’s Study
This science-themed area teaches kids how a telescope works and basic astronomy.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me

When it’s time for a snack, head outside to The Discovery Gardens. There are shaded picnic tables so you can bring your own food, and take a breather while kids explore the fruit and veggie beds, quarry and creek.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me

If you’re like us and never pack lunch (busted!) try the onsite cafe, Espresso Warriors, where all-day brekkie is on the menu, as well as amazing looking pastries and a kids menu that features meals like ham and cheese toasties, fish, sweet potato chips and grilled chicken for $10-11. Each kids meal comes with fresh fruit and a juice box.

The Early Start Discovery Space via christineknight.me

The Early Start Discovery Space
University of Wollongong, Northfields Ave, Wollongong.

The Discovery Space is located on Ring Road opposite the Western (P4) Car park.
Hours: Tues-Sun 9am-4pm (Closed Mondays)
Prices: Adults and children 12 months and over: $15. Children under 12 months: free.
Get Directions

Aqua S: Sydney’s Best Ice Cream

Aqua S: Sydney's Best Ice Cream

Let’s begin by saying that Sydney’s ice cream game is strong. Aqua S burst into an already saturated market with its now famous aqua blue Sea Salt Soft Serve. It was an Instagram sensation, sending countless food bloggers to the tiny ice cream store to try their unusual flavoured soft served, and photograph it against the cloud-painted wall inside the shop. A new dessert sensation was born, and Aqua S has been holding its own as a solid dessert spot in Sydney ever since.

Aqua S: Sydney's Best Ice Cream

Aqua S has weekly flavours such as Pandan, Lychee and Green Apple. Mix them up with the basic Sea Salt for the gorgeoyus coloured twist, and add fairy floss, caramel popcorn or a toasted mashmallow  for a truly Instagrammable dessert.

I found the soft serve to be very creamy and rich, and the sea salt flavour to taste more like salted caramel than anything else. There is plenty of seating inside and the store is easily accessible for strollers/wheelchairs.

Aqua S: Sydney's Best Ice Cream Aqua S: Sydney's Best Ice Cream Aqua S: Sydney's Best Ice Cream Aqua S: Sydney's Best Ice Cream

Highchairs: No.
Stroller storage: No.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: No.

Aqua S
27/501 George St,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: (02) 8668 5957
Prices: $
Hours: Daily 12pm-10pm
Get Directions

Aqua S Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

The Sweet Spot Waterloo: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Waterloo

sweet-spot

The once industrial inner east of Sydney has come a long way. It’s now full of cute little dining spots, including The Sweet Spot, a kid-friendly cafe in Waterloo that is famous for its delicious desserts.

Sweet Spot: #kidfriendly Cafes Waterloo #Sydney #Australia via christineknight.me

We stumbled upon the patisserie in search of a sweet hit, and continued to return for its savoury dishes.

Sweet Spot: #kidfriendly Cafes Waterloo #Sydney #Australia via christineknight.me

A regular order for us would be Corn Fritters (roast tomato, avocado, bacon, balsamic reduction, poached eggs & a slice of sourdough, $15) where I swap the bacon for haloumi, kids’ chocolate milkshake, Pancakes ($12) and the Big Breakfast (chorizo, spinach, mushrooms, bacon, roast tomato and 2 eggs, $18).

sweet-spot-4 sweet-spot-3 sweet-spot-5 sweet-spot-1

We found the food very reasonably priced, big portions, and absolutely delicious. We could easily very happily share two meals, but it’s all so delicious we would end up ordering one dish each, then stuffing ourselves to the brim.

While there is nothing particularly kid-friendly about the cafe, we found the open air seating, spaciousness and attitude of the staff to make the patisserie very family-friendly. There is plenty of room for strollers to fit next to tables, and if little ones need to be strolled, there is a long ramp that leads down out of the cafe where babies can be calmed down or walked around until they’re able to return to the cafe. It’s an easy place to escape from other diners if your kids aren’t having a good day out.

Highchairs: Yes.
Stroller storage: Yes.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: No.

The Sweet Spot Waterloo
Shop 1, 2 Allen Street,
Waterloo NSW 2015
Phone: (02) 9690 0340
Prices: $
Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm Sat&Sun 8am-3:30pm
Get Directions

The Sweet Spot Waterloo Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Marionette on Booth & Gladstone Park: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Balmain

Marionette on Booth: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Balmain

This tiny little place, tucked away from busy Darling street, is one of the most kid-friendly cafes in Balmain. While their main game is coffee (check out their website, The Little Marionette for more details about their roasting business), they also have fantastic food and friendly, accomodating staff.

Little Marionette: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Balmain Little Marionette: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Balmain Little Marionette: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Balmain

We noticed on our visit that most families were getting their coffee and food to go, and enjoying it in Gladstone Park across the road. We chose to dine in and enjoyed the surprisingly quiet dining area inside.

Little Marionette: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Balmain

It’s pretty obvious that families are among the prime visitors to this little cafe from the outside. They have set up a challkboard wall and at any time of day you’ll see either kids creating a masterpiece on the wall and pavement, or evidence of the mini Picasso who had dined there perviously. It’s a genius move really, as parents can order their coffee or food to go while kids are happily occupied.

Little Marionette: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Balmain

We ordered an In House Bircher Museli (with yoghurt and honey, small $7), pot of English Breakfast organic tea ($4), Breakfast Sandwich (fried eggs, bacon, spinach, fresh tomato and avocado topped with relish on Turkish toast, $12), a kid’s toasted Cheese Sandwich ($4), Babyccino ($1), flat white ($4).

Little Marionette: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Balmain Little Marionette: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Balmain

The babyccino was a hit, with the takeaway cup and marshmallow perched on the straw. My bircher was delicious –  very generous serve for a “small” size. Alec said repeatedly how delicious his sandwich was, so I think we have found our new regular cafe in Balmain.

Little Marionette: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Balmain

Across the road from Marionette on Booth is Gladstone Park, where you will find large grassed areas under cover of trees, a large playground with climbing structures for kids of a wide age range, basketball courts and bathrooms.

Little Marionette: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Balmain

Little Marionette: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Balmain

Highchairs: No.
Stroller storage: No.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: Yes.

Black Star Pastry and Cafe
1A Booth St,
Balmain NSW 2041
Phone: 0402 434 597
Prices: $
Hours: Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat 7am-4pm, Sun 8am-4pm
Get Directions

Marionette On Booth Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato