Here at Viva we love the ceremony of a high tea. It's the perfect afternoon treat, with harbour views only serving to enhance the charm.
Ostro's new weekend high-tea service includes Josh Emett's take on classics like mini brandy snaps, violet lamingtons and cucumber, dill and sour cream club sandwiches. There are scones, of course, egg and watercress on toasted brioche, and plenty of sweet bites, from raspberry macarons to opera cake, chocolate brownies and mini yuzu tartlets. Served alongside tea, or for a little extra, a glass of Nicolas Feuillate or Veuve Clicquot.
"I've always loved high teas, specifically what I did with Gordon Ramsay in New York," Emett enthuses. "It's a fun and usually celebratory occasion - birthdays, baby showers or just celebrating the company of good friends. Our Ostro version has been designed for exactly those moments."
• Ostro High Tea, $55 a person (min. two people), or $70-75 with Champagne. Weekends, 3pm-5pm. Ph (09) 302 9888.
- VIVA