Australia’s Willy Wonka: An Exclusive Interview with Adriano Zumbo

When it comes to high tea, most people think dainty sandwiches, fine china and a predictable lineup of sweet treats. But at QT Sydney, Adriano Zumbo is turning tradition on its head with an imaginative new QTea menu. It’s a little cheeky, and full of unexpected flavour bombs – all with that unmistakable Zumbo twist.

We caught up with the man himself to chat through the new lineup and what makes this high tea anything but ordinary.

What playful mischief have you brought to the new QTea spread, and how does it shake up the usual scones-and-sandwiches routine?

There’s been a lot of creativity happening in the QTea kitchens. The sweet offering is a great mix of fun and sophistication. Starting at the Gowings Bar, inspired by their talked-about mojitos, bringing a punchy mojito tart. A trip down the multicultural lane and we have our “Mandy and Earl” verrine – that’s chocolate, earl grey tea and mandarin hit. A bit of a pear, geeking out on a macadamia and rhubarb happiness in a cube. Lastly, a selection of Zumbarons.
Accompanying this is the OG scones, and a wicked savoury lineup – from mac and cheese croquettes to burnt lemon harissa prawn rolls. The usual routine is shaken up with bolder flavours and a more gourmet experience that packs value and mystery.

Which treat on the menu will surprise us in the best possible way – the one that screams “Zumbo was here”?

I think the mac and cheese croquette and mojito tart combo screams fun. Packs a taste experience that really says, “Zumbo was here.”

High tea is usually all frills and fine china. How do you keep things elegant, but still a little cheeky?

Traditional high tea is kind of a standard offering – you pretty much know what you’re going to get. We add some surprise. People don’t expect the creative food that’s on offer at QT Sydney. We steer away from the traditional sandwiches and strawberry tarts.
We put a lot of focus on presentation and flavour, but keep it within a simplified, elegant look with some nostalgic connections – then we implement a shaded edge to give it some cheek.

What’s your ultimate tip for turning a simple afternoon tea into a full-blown experience?

My ultimate tip is don’t box yourself into a corner with what’s stereotypical. Look at your favourite foods and think about how you can make them into small taste bombs. Easiest way is to find the perfect vessel – whether it’s a sandwich, tart, roll, glass, bowl, fried, cake, etc. Then create it to suit the style. Elevator straight to the top floor.

Whether you’re in it for the mojito tart, a mac-and-cheese croquette, or just in need of a cheeky afternoon escape – QTea at QT Sydney promises a high tea like no other. Nostalgia meets elegance, with just the right amount of mischief – every Saturday and Sunday at QT Sydney.

Book your seat at the table here.

From Zumbo, with love (and layers of flavour).