The word tea has an almost magical connotation, calling to mind elegance, glamour, and tradition; and it’s held this ethereal quality for centuries in very different cultures across the globe. There is nothing which suggests sophistication as much as a freshly brewed pot of tea, because really, making tea in a cup is only suitable when you’re at work!
I believe William Ewart Gladstone, hit the nail right on the head when he said, “If you are cold, tea will warm you; if you are too heated, it will cool you; if you are depressed, it will cheer you; if you are excited, it will calm you”. So if you’re looking to have a catch up with friends while in Johannesburg, consider these fantastic tea rooms:
- Contessa Tea Connoisseur, Rivonia
If you’re dreaming of yester year when tea rooms were for the intellectual and tea lovers, then the Contessa in the Rivonia Corner Shopping Centre is tailor made for you. The ornately decorated setting includes red and white candy-striped walls, gilded mirrors, vintage paintings, Twining tea tins, and numerous aged books from authors such as Charles Dickens.
Once you’re seated and have admired the setting, you’ll discover the main draw: the 152 tea varieties available here! Popular flavours include Earl Grey, Caramel Rum, Masala Chai, Apricot Brandy, and Lemon & Ginger, which are served either in Asiatic glass teapots, or pretty porcelain ones. Pair your tea with a slice of chocolate coconut cake, and let the conversation flow. There are other beverages available, and breakfasts and lunches are served daily. If you’re hoping to take some of the delightful teas home with you, or you’ve been eyeing their Asiatic glass teapots, there is a retail section on-site. Contact: 011-234-6641.
- The Secret Garden, Fourways
Away from the concrete jungle within the garden of Norscot Manor, lies The Secret Garden, a bona fide haven for those on the go. Not only will you have a tranquil setting to appreciate lunch with friends, but as all the tables are outside, you can keep an eye on your little one, who has likely run off to the nearby playground. On Thursdays and Fridays, if you give a small donation, your child can join Annah at her crafts table to paint, draw, play with dough, and more. Cricket, jumping castles, and soccer are all offered on the weekend, and picnics are encouraged, so all you need to bring is a blanket and yourselves to enjoy this.
Their Tea for Two is a hit with guests, and it is served daily after 14:00. Although their High Tea is only available by prior arrangement, it’s an absolute must for larger groups. Items included with the High Tea include mini quiches, perfectly portioned sandwiches, fresh fruit with cream, custard puffs, mini éclairs, and even a Victorian sponge cake! The tea you pick will be served in a beautiful floral tea set, with sparkling silverware provided as utensils for the nibbles. Contact: 011-467-1191.
- La Belle Terrasse at The Westcliff Hotel, Westcliff
The Westcliff Hotel is a well-known local and international name due to the high standards of serviceand the comfortable, classy rooms on offer. Even if you don’t overnight at the hotel, you can pop into their beautiful La Belle Terrasse restaurant which has outstanding views of the city and a lush forest backdrop. The beige flooring contrasts beautifully with the white tablecloths and gilded chandeliers.
Their decadent High Tea is available during weekend afternoons only, and it consists of savoury options like crepes and dumplings, as well as sweet options such as chocolate panna cotta, red velvet cupcakes, and scones with their usual toppings. Their Afternoon Tea is only served during weekday afternoons and consists of items such as lemon curd tarts, scones, delicately cut salmon sandwiches, and mini-quiches. Both menus change monthly, and as this event is very popular, pre-booking a month in advance is advised. Contact: 011-481-6000.
Let us know where your favourite tea-time spot is in Johannesburg!
Main image courtesy of chrisjtse (Flickr)
