A great way to bust out that snooty outfit you’ve been saving for a grand occasion is to indulge in a gorgeously sophisticated High Tea. Think scones, sarmies, carrot cake. All things dainty, bite-sized, and delicious! Should you find yourself in Cape Town, here are the top places to go and enjoy a fancy High Tea.
The Twelve Apostles
With a truly remarkable outlook over the Atlantic Ocean and the collection of mountains of the same name, the Twelve Apostles is a Cape Town institution. If sea and tea make your heart beat faster, then the afternoon ‘Tea by the Sea’ at Twelve Apostlesis a decadent variation of the tradition. Expect cream scones, chocolate brownies, sandwiches, and a wide selection of teas and coffees. The location, along with the exquisite finger food, make this a popular treat for locals and visitors alike. If you are vegan, you’re in luck. With the growing importance of plant-based cuisine, our talented pastry chefs have created a Vegan High Tea experience.
24 hours notice required | Available 7 days a week.
Rhodes Cottage Tea Room in Kalk Bay
High tea with an epic view! Situated in the old manager’s cottage on the premises of the Rhodes Cottage Museum, the Tea Room combines incredible African history with the beauty of the False Bay coastline and fynbos rich mountain behind. The tea room consists of the outside elevated garden, and tables are available in the coach house, which housed the Cape cart that Cecil John Rhodes is said to have used to drive from his grand house, Groote Schuur to Muizenberg. Best part? Pets are welcome!
High tea on Saturdays is available from 1 pm to 3pm and on Sundays from 11am to 1pm and 3pm to 5pm at R169, which includes bottomless tea.
Granary Café at The Silo
Located on the 6th floor of The Silo Hotel at the V&A Waterfront, the Granary Café offers a Royal Tea, fit for Meghan and Harry. You can expect to see the in-house pastry chef’s petit gâteaux, along with an endless array of sweet treats and savoury items. To boot, The Silo is also located in the same grand building as the Zeitz MOCAA, which is a must-visit for any art fanatic.
Available Thursday – Sunday from 14:30 – 17:00
Mount Nelson
The elegant Pink Lady in the heart of town is always a spectacular idea. Experience old-school grandeur with their sweet treat buffet and a varied selection of teas at theHigh Tea at Mount Nelson. Pull up a comfortable chair next to one of the cats of Mount Nelson and indulge in a feast of treats. On offer is a selection of pastries, cakes and savoury sandwiches, which you can enjoy while soft live piano music is played nearby.
Seating times are available Wednesday to Sunday at noon and 3pm. A glass of bubbles on arrival is included as standard.
