To be honest, the first time I went, it took me a while to locate the cafe even though it was located on the main road. Perhaps it was the pastel coloured signage that was easily missed, or perhaps it was because I was focusing on the road instead of the signage. But once you're there once, you'll never forget where it is, because you'll definitely be making frequent visits there.
This is my third time to Heavenly Plate, and this time with a mission - to write an honest review of the High Tea sessions available there. I've always wanted to try their High Teas, but never had the chance the first two rounds of gathering with friends. I guess what they say is true, that third time's a charm, here I am finally getting my wish of a High Tea session. Yay!
Get ready to be transported into the world of Modern English chicness when you step into this cozy little vegan cafe, where every customer is greeted with a friendly smile. Inside, you will find a unique decorative backdrop of random trinkets and parisian ornaments, all of which are available for sale if it takes your fancy.
As it was our first time experiencing authentic High Tea, Miss Eka the cafe owner very patiently explained the story behind this very traditional ceremony of sipping tea and nibbling delicate finger food. I noticed from the previous few times I was here, that whenever she's in the store, she personally makes it a point to meet each and every table to either greet them, introduced them their meals, or just to refill their glasses. The soft spoken lady, who has been a vegan since she was seventeen, revealed that the beauty of High Tea lies with the signature three-tier stand, exquisite fine china and silverware used for the meal.
English High Tea from the nineteenth century usually consists of a pot of tea, bread (sandwiches), cheese, crackers, and some times pies. Scones with jam and cream wasn't introduced until the early twentieth century, but has since become a staple for High Tea sessions. In modern times, what is offered for the luxurious afternoon treat varies from cafes to cafes, but one thing stays the same - the three-tier stand, the delicate china and silver wares.
What is important to note is that, Heavenly Plate is not just a High Tea place. It's main focus is actually as a vegan friendly restaurant, offering vegetarian lunch, dinner and desserts. It is worthwhile to mention that all their meals are prepared without the use of garlic, onions, and eggs. Gluten and dairy free options are available as well upon request.
Overall it was a beautiful experience at Heavenly Plate. I've had some High Tea sessions back in Malaysia at fancy hotels, but those are nothing compared to the cozy ambience, good quality food, and intimate service found here in this little Perth cafe. Definitely a must-visit, even if only for a one time experience.
Rating:
Location: 8/10 (Just because it did take me a few rounds of driving the first time I went there having missed the signage, but otherwise, it's not too difficult to find since it is on a main road.)
Environment: 10/10 (It's definitely a kids friendly place, considering I've been here for a kid's birthday party the first time, and the second time I was there, there was a group of ladies there for a baby shower party, and most of them had kids. Definitely a thumbs up for mothers with kids, like me!)
Time: 7/10 (I noticed that it didn't take long for the meals to come out after ordering. But if you are having lunch instead, make sure to let the waitress know if you'd like the appetisers to come out together with the main meals or after, as you might have to wait a little in between your appetizer and meal if you don't.)
Yummy-ness: 8/10 (Some of the tarts were too sweet for my liking, but then again, I've never had a pension for sweet stuff. I know a friend of mine who went there for a session last time told me it wasn't too sweet for her.)
Service: 10/10 (I would definitely give this two thumbs up. All the wait staff always had a smile on their face, and the owner was humble enough to be serving the guests as well. Definitely makes the dining experience all the more pleasant.)
Overall rating: 8.6/10
For more information, kindly visit their website, and or their Facebook page. And of course, their cafe details are also found in the first picture at the top. ;)
Additional note: Although this is a complimentary session for review purposes, I also incorporated my honest experience from the few previous visits to the cafe.