High Tea at Impala and Peacock in Brunswick
Going against the grain of our coffee obsessed city, founder of Impala and Peacock, Sarah de Witt, has brought her collection of speciality teas to the forefront with the same level of care and passion as from those who have given Melbourne its title of ‘coffee capital’. The World Loves Melbourne was invited to sample the Impala and Peacock experience.
Tucked away in Brunswick, Impala and Peacock’s décor is simple with vintage undertones but fingerprints of elegance are all over the space with beautiful centerpieces, a gorgeous chandelier, antique tea cup displays and yes, even some peacock feathers. It’s casual enough to stop in for an afternoon tea but also has a chic ambience that makes it fitting for High Tea or an intimate celebration.
The World Loves Melbourne took part in High Tea and were able to enjoy five different teas including Impala and Peacock’s own take on the classic English breakfast, the Brunswick Breakfast Black and my (Randie) personal favourite, Aromatherapy which is a sophisticated blend of peppermint, lemongrass, spearmint, lemon verbena, sweet lemon balm and a touch of provincial lavender buds. All of our teas sat in glass teapots over a small flame to keep the teas at the perfect temperature.
On the right: Golden Bud Red and on the left Brunswick Breakfast Black
Although they have a small tea range, it’s about quality rather than quantity. All the tea blends are all created seasonally and after carefully selecting the best, organic ingredients, everything is shipped to Melbourne where it is blended in store by de Witt and her team. There is also a range of single estate (unblended), organic teas. Similar to wine, single estate teas have unique characteristics particular to that estate and for that season. There is about six different teas on hand that the team will prepare and steep carefully to maximise and reflect the true flavour.
I (Randie) can honestly say all the teas were fabulous! There is a huge difference between tea that has been so carefully crafted and mass produced tea that you would find in a grocery store. To end our tea journey, we tried a blossoming tea which was a marigold flower wrapped in white tea leaves resting in a bed of jasmine.
Aside from the outstanding blends of teas, there is also a range of delicious cakes and biscuits to snack on. If you are thinking of partaking in High Tea you can expect a range of both savory and sweet treats including sandwiches quiches, cheese and seasonal fruit specially paired with your tea. Some of our highlights included a purple kale, feta and roasted pumpkin sandwich and the chocolate zucchini cupcake.
Impala and Peacock are about more than just providing quality tea, they want to give their guests an experience at the same time and that is evident through sourcing the highest-quality ingredients, to the timeless choice in teaware. Impala and Peacock takes it a step further for guest who are keen to learn more in depth about tea and offer tea tastings where tea enthusiasts can understand the art and science behind blending the perfect cup of tea and design their own signature blend.
Whether you want tea in a formal High Tea setting with finger sandwiches, scones and pastries or simply a peaceful place to enjoy your favourite brew, Impala and Peacock is a charming spot that brings a bit more character to the Brunswick area.
Impala and Peacock is located at 558 Sydney Road, Brunswick. For opening hours, menu and high tea bookings visit www.impalaandpeacock.com.au.