A Taste of Spring at InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto

The InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto has launched a spring Afternoon Tea at Alluvial Restaurant, which blends native Australian flavours, TWG teas, Champagne and seasonal herbs for an elegant experience.

Stepping into Alluvial Restaurant, nestled beneath the soaring glass atrium of the InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto, feels like entering a calm pocket of the city. The historic architecture sets a refined backdrop, while the generous spacing between tables creates an unexpectedly private experience – perfect for savouring a long conversation over tea and treats.

A charming touch is the in-house herb garden, located on the restaurant floor. Many of the herbs used in the afternoon tea are harvested directly from this garden, adding a local and seasonal flourish that feels entirely at home in Melbourne’s foodie scene.

The Spring Afternoon Tea, curated by Executive Chef Charlie Song, celebrates native Australian ingredients in a way that feels elegant rather than experimental. The savoury selection stood out – from the seared kangaroo canapé to the Skull Island prawn brioche – each item was beautifully balanced and packed with flavour. The scone was excellent, and the decision to serve just one (accompanied by a light, buttery madeleine) was inspired. It allowed room to properly appreciate the sweets, all petite and precise. My favourite was the Davidson plum and chocolate ganache, a perfect blend of richness and tart native fruit.

As well as the delicious food, guests are treated to TWG teas, barista-made coffee, an Orange and Cointreau shooter to cleanse the palate, and a glass of Champagne – we agreed this was a generous and well-rounded offering.

Altogether, this is an afternoon tea that respects tradition while showcasing distinctly Australian produce. It’s a serene, beautifully executed experience, ideal for anyone wanting to enjoy spring (or summer) in the heart of Melbourne.

Thursday–Sunday, 12:30–2:30pm, $99 per person, bookings via the InterContinental Melbourne website. 

View this post on Instagram

Spring Afternoon Tea Menu:

Savoury Delights 

• Classic Chicken Waldorf Sandwich (N) with cranberry and candied walnuts
• Skull Island King Prawn Salad on Brioche with crème fraîche and desert lime
• Rare Seared Kangaroo Fillet with Manuka honey caramelised onion relish and wattle seed
• Truffle Egg Pinwheel (V) with crispy saltbush

Classic Treats 

• Madeleine
• Housemade Buttermilk Scone served with Yarra Valley strawberry jam, sustainable honey and lemon myrtle double cream

Sweet Delights 

• Charlotte Fraise (GF) with white chocolate mousse, mountain pepperberry and strawberry centre
• Chocolate Bounty (VG, GF) with rich chocolate layered with coconut and strawberry gum
• Dark Chocolate Ganache with raspberry Chantilly and Davidson plum powder
• Orange Cake (N, GF) with mango jelly and finger lime pearls

 

High Tea Melbourne – find more experiences
in our High Tea Venue Directory