Taking high tea Victorian style: Penny Black Tearooms

Light, fluffy scones with dollops of jam and cream, Battenberg cake, lemon posset, and other delicacies, beautifully arrayed on fine porcelain, with a refreshing ‘cuppa’ were all the rage in the late 1890s.

High tea, as it is known, was a favourite of the late Queen Victoria and her court, and it can be yours too. In Christchurch, the Penny Black Victorian Tearoom, in the heart of The Tannery, offers the same unique enjoyable high tea experience with all the trappings of yesteryear.

It’s like stepping back in time to 1897, the year of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, with all its accompanying etiquette and style. Experience all the accoutrements of a fine establishment – napery and silverware, fine china tiered cake stands – in an elegant setting while enjoying outstanding service.

The traditional fare so loved by the Victorian upper classes is perfect for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, bridal or baby showers, festive season get-togethers or just because you can.

Owners Tanu and Mauly Srivastav and their team offer a warm welcome, great service and fabulous food. High teas are their specialty but if breakfast, brunch or lunch is more your style, then Penny Black is also your go-to. Check out the quaintly-named traditional dishes – Eggy Bread, Beefeaters Breakfast, HRH Eggs Benedict, Bubble and Squeak, or The Duchess Coddled Egg – on the menu.

All manner of dietary requirements are catered for – gluten and dairy free, keto and vegan – so no-one needs to miss out. For those who can’t make the occasion, Penny Black can also bake cakes on order for functions off-site – everything from a Victoria sponge to chocolate or toffee apple cakes.

Mouth watering? Call 03 381 3445 to book your festive high tea or function.

www.penny-black.co.nz