You know us—we like to do things a little differently at the Port Admiral Hotel.
We’re not into fussy dining for the sake of appearances, nor do we believe that beautiful food should come with conditions. We believe in experiences that are inclusive, indulgent, full of joy, and rooted in place. That’s why we’re thrilled to unveil something that’s been a long time coming…
Introducing Adelaide’s very first 100% gluten-free high tea, served in the oldest building in Port Adelaide, nestled right in the beating heart of the Port.
This isn’t just a tea party—it’s a celebration of flavour, history, and finally being able to eat everything on the table without fear or compromise.
Starting Saturday, September 6, and continuing on the first Saturday of each month, this brand-new high tea experience offers gluten-free dining in a way you’ve likely never encountered before: steeped in old-world elegance, brimming with creativity, and infused with the unmistakable character of our historic seaside town.
An Elegant Affair, With a Dash of Port Charm
The moment you climb the staircase to the upper rooms of the Port Admiral Hotel, you’ll feel it—that sense of stepping back in time. Sandstone walls echo with whispered stories of sea captains, rebels, and raucous publicans from centuries past.
But now, the old girl has a new story to tell—one of delicate friands and salmon mousse crostini, of steaming teapots and laughter shared across crisp white linen.
Our high tea service runs from 2PM to 4PM, set in a lovingly restored drawing room with views of Commercial Road and the slow, easy rhythm of Port life below. This isn’t a hotel ballroom trying to mimic English tradition. It’s South Australia’s own take on indulgence—bold, beautiful, and inclusive.
🍰 The Star of the Show: A Gluten-Free Menu Worthy of Celebration
Let’s talk about the food—because let’s face it, that’s why you’re here.
Every item on our high tea menu is lovingly crafted in-house and completely gluten free, certified coeliac-safe and created with as much flair as flavour. If you’ve ever sat through a high tea nervously nibbling at the one or two items that were ‘safe’ while watching others feast—this experience is for you.
Here’s what’s gracing our tiered platters:
🥪 Savouries that Satisfy
Classic ribbon sandwiches, with rotating seasonal fillings (think egg and chive, cucumber and dill cream cheese, chicken and tarragon mayo)
Mini quiches, light and golden with flaky GF pastry
Zucchini slice, herby, hearty, and comfortingly nostalgic
Crostini with salmon mousse & pâté, silky smooth and perfectly paired
🍬 Sweets That Steal the Show
Traditional shortbread, buttery and melt-in-the-mouth
Sweet slices, from lemony delights to chocolatey indulgences
Petite tartlets, crisp shells filled with curds, ganaches and seasonal fruits
Almond friands, light, nutty, and dangerously moreish
🥂 The Finishing Touches
A glass of champagne on arrival (because why not?)
A curated selection of premium loose-leaf teas, chosen to complement every bite
All of it served on vintage crockery and garnished with care. The kind of thoughtful presentation that makes you feel like royalty… or at least like you’ve finally found a high tea that truly sees you.
💬 “Can I eat that?” Yes, You Can.
We know the gluten-free community often lives with hesitation at events like this—double-checking ingredients, watching everyone else tuck in, while asking the dreaded “Is this one safe?”
At the Port Admiral, you can exhale.
Everything—yes, everything—on our high tea menu is coeliac-friendly. No need to call ahead, no awkward conversations with staff, no social discomfort. Just pure, relaxed enjoyment. As one of Adelaide’s most committed gluten-free venues, this isn’t our first foray into allergy-safe dining—it’s what we do best.
And for those joining a gluten-free friend? We promise you won’t even notice the difference (other than being able to share everything guilt-free).
🫖 More Than a Meal—It’s a Moment
High tea has always been more than just food. It’s an excuse to slow down. To catch up. To mark a special occasion or to simply make an ordinary day feel special. And in our upstairs parlour, time really does slow down. It’s a chance to leave the world behind for a couple of hours—to linger over that last tartlet, to sip your tea while the late afternoon light filters through century-old windows, and to toast to life, love, and the little joys that make it all worthwhile.
Bring your mum, your best friend, your book club, or your bridal party. Come solo if you like—we’ve always got a seat at the table.
💌 Event Details & Booking Info
🗓 First Saturday of each month, starting Saturday September 6
🕑 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 Upstairs at the Port Admiral Hotel – 55 Commercial Road, Port Adelaide
💲 Premium High tea $89 per person (includes all food, premium teas, and a glass of premium bubbles or Moscato on arrival)
💲 Budget friendly High tea $69 per person (includes 3 savory & 3 sweet selections on the day, premium teas, and a glass of house bubbles on arrival)
Seating is extremely limited, and we expect bookings to fill quickly—so don’t wait.
📧 To book your table,
We also offer private bookings for groups of 12 or more—perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or a next-level catch-up.
✨ Why This Matters
This high tea isn’t just about scones and tea leaves. It’s about creating a space where everyone is welcome. It’s about reclaiming elegance and indulgence for those who’ve often had to sit out or make do. It’s about celebrating food as it should be: joyful, abundant, and shared.
And most of all, it’s about doing things our way—the Port way. With a little grit, a lot of heart, and a deep love for our community.
So, dust off your favourite frock (or don’t—we’re not fussy), bring your appetite, and join us for a new tradition in an old building, where gluten-free finally gets the high tea it deserves.
We can’t wait to pour your first cup.
