Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie | Family High Tea • TOT: HOT OR NOT

Nothing gets me out of the house faster than the words ‘chocolate’ and ‘high tea’. Sounds tempting? The Chocolateries Great Ocean Road has introduced high tea or afternoon tea into their program of special events. Even better, if you have kids in tow you can all enjoy a Family High Tea in the family-friendly space. We are invited to sample the Family High Tea and my first word of warning is to NOT eat breakfast and to wear your stretchy pants. This is a no-holds-barred indulgent treat and there is a LOT of food coming your way. (Luckily, they let you take the leftovers home, so there’s no need to gorge yourself in one sitting). The high tea is set out in a slightly separated space in the main dining area, away from the hoi polloi. The tables are decorated with beautiful flower arrangements and dainty china. First up is a flute of non-alcoholic Peppermint Punch for the adults and a choice of mini milkshakes for the kids. Then buckle up! Think whimsical desserts and creative savoury items, scones, ribbon sandwiches and petite pastries for the adults. I particularly like the lemon myrtle smoked salmon and dill mousse macaron and the mini ham and cheese croissant. The former is an unexpected mix of savoury with sweet, while the latter is a little fluttery puff of delight. There are TWO rounds of desserts. Highlights include the creme brulee, the famous Chocolaterie chocolate brownie and the delicate lemon meringue pie. Wash it all down with endless organic tea and barista coffee or if you dare, a hot chocolate (our waitress advises us against it as lots of sweets are on offer later).

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Oh, and at the end….they offer you more chocolate! You can’t refuse though – the Diamond in the Sky Truffle takes 3 days to make! Kids get their own special stand with cute items such as ladybug choux puffs, piggy macarons, ghostly chocolate brownies and fairy bread pinwheels. They also get a second round of dessert with a chocolate lace wand and finishing up with a mini ice cream at the end. If the kids start to fidget there is colouring-in to complete or an expansive lawn outside for outdoor games. The Chocolateries Great Ocean Road only run on set weekends. The events have been a sell out since launch so make sure you get your booking in early. It’s a must-do if you’re visiting the Surf Coast (it’s only 10 minutes from Torquay) and you have a sweet tooth! You can always choose something from the store to take home too.