I commented yesterday that I couldn’t believe how, with all of the cake I have consumed in the past months, I am not feeling the strain of my skinny jeans or the struggle of doing up my favourite skirt. Be warned readers – I am about to share with you more stories of cake and champagne and all that is good in the world.
Yesterday was a glorious sunny Sunday in Melbourne, albeit rather chilly. The Abbotsford Convent (conveniently located in Abbotsford) was awash with sunshine and people who had turned out to visit the market and enjoy some lunch while the rays lasted. I was in attendance to take part in the newest attraction at the Convent, a high tea offering with a twist.
A Touch of… Bursaria is set to be held in the Rosina Function Room on the third Sunday of the month, making it a lovely outing when paired with a big breakfast and a visit to the market.
We enjoyed De Bortoli Sparking in the courtyard, a space I imagine would be very sweet adorned with fairy lights for a dusk wedding – and pondered the gorgeousness of the day with Sarah from Style Melbourne, Erica from Fashion Recycled and Leeyong from Style Wilderness, before being ushered into an even more magical room, filled with tables beautifully decorated with doilies, glasswear, flowers and homemade lemonade. The entire room was serene and set up for a delightful afternoon of tea and cake.
The service began with elegant hors d’oeuvres – salmon blinis, poached chicken sandwiches, prawn skewers and chorizo pastry rolls. My gluten free offering included frittata and mini hash cakes, each more delicious than the last. I’ve noted the benefit of always requiring a seperate gluten free plate – I always seemed to end up with more food than everyone else!
We had barely finished the savoury before the sweet descended on the table. Tiers of decadent desserts made our mouths water – creme brulee, lemon meringue pies, scones, pannacotta and chocolate pots. I could feel my blood sugar levels adjusting accordingly.
Over three cups of tea and carefully selected music from the live DJ, I ate 2 chocolate pots, a panna cotta, a creme brulee and a rosewater meringue. I probably would have kept going if I didn’t feel it wasn’t socially acceptable to continue to eat the desserts until there was nothing left. Best I planned my exit while I could still sit comfortably with my pants done up.
A Touch of.. Bursaria High Tea runs from 2pm til 4pm on the third Sunday of the month, and costs $55. Bookings are essential on 03 9417 7771
Check out the other High Teas I’ve tried and tested here!
