High teas hit the sweet spot

Published 9:30am 23 May 2021

Iconic Redcliffe tearoom Teddies ’n’ Sweets is finally offering its famed high teas again.

The tearoom moved from its Cominos Arcade home of 14 years to a new venue around the corner just before Christmas, but it has taken more than five months to arrange a kitchen fit-out so the business can operate at full strength.

Owner Anna Connor says she is thrilled with the results, and with the support of customers who continued to visit as the new venue took shape.

“It feels so comfortable, as though I have been here forever,” Anna says.

Teddies right at home

The famed giant teddy takes pride of place at the front of the venue, with treasured bear Watson – the star of a series of children’s picture books - watching over proceedings near a large display of cuddly teddies.

Anna has also found a home for her beloved collection of Freddie Mercury memorabilia, as well as a framed certificate commemorating her place as the Guinness World Record holder for the highest number of times watching a film in a cinema – she saw Bohemian Rhapsody 108 times, and has since watched it hundreds more on DVD at home.

She says she was delighted to receive her first booking for a high tea just days after the official opening.

“The first one is three generations – a mum, daughter and granddaughter,” Anna says.

Customer connections

While less formal teas will be served at the front of the shop, high teas have their own dedicated area, complete with delicate china, lace tablecloth and a special lounge for relaxing.

Anna says the tea service featuring pastel blue and peach flowers, and the cosy cream lounge suite, were donated by the daughter of a loyal customer who recently passed away.

“It feels as if she’s watching over me,” she says.

Teddies ’n’ Sweets is at 4 Violet St, Redcliffe.