I don’t know about you, but I think one of the great perks in life is being able to savour all the different taste sensations that food and drink have to offer.
Johannesburg is a haven for all types of food and drinks and here I bring you 5 places where you could enjoy afternoon tea in and around Johannesburg.
But first, what exactly is “Afternoon Tea”?
The phrases “afternoon tea” and “high tea” are often used interchangeably because many believe that there is no difference between the two. Both tea traditions are steeped in British history and their most common, albeit subtle, differences can be attributed to Father Time.
The idea of afternoon tea began in the 1840s when the Duchess of Bedford wanted something to tide her over during the gap between lunch and dinner because dinner could be served as late as 8 pm. High Tea, however, was more synonymous with working-class families who only really were able to eat after a long day’s work. For this reason, their meals were usually fuller and heartier than that found with afternoon tea and in today’s society would be referred to as “Supper”.
Lifestyles have changed dramatically through the centuries and today both afternoon and high tea is regarded as a treat, rather than a necessity.
Nestled in between the trendy neighbourhoods of Melrose Arch and Illovo is an area called Birdhaven, and it is here where you will be able to dabble in a range of afternoon canapes and delights from Voodoo Lily Cafe – a family-friendly, rustic European styled restaurant. Their menu incorporates a worldwide cuisine – from the cobblestoned walkways of France to the big yellow taxi glazed streets of New York.
This restaurant exudes a love for family, so much so that it is both child and dog-friendly. And with both interior and exterior seating options and being open from 7am, there is something for everybody. Afternoon tea options are sumptuous and mouth-watering with choices of smoked salmon crostinis with dill capers and creme fraiche and mini firecracker chicken skewers with peanut sauce to mini peppermint crisp tarts and chocolate brownies. The bar offers a lovely range of cocktails, craft beers, teas and coffees, all charged upon consumption.
Hidden amidst the hustle and bustle of Fourways is The Secret Tea Garden, a family-friendly establishment with manicured lawns, a relaxed atmosphere and some of the best fresh scones and open sandwiches around. Mothers favour this little spot because of its warm nature and child-friendly approach. Children are able to play to their heart’s content on the jungle gyms and surrounding lawns and adults are able to relax a little and explore an array of freshly-baked sweet and savoury treats. There are two High Tea options available, both pre-arranged slightly fancier affairs made for baby or bridal showers and other special events. For passers-by, there is a walk-in option aptly named ‘Tea For Two’. This option consists of a fresh assortment of dainty sandwiches, sweet biscuits, a fresh slice of cake and freshly brewed tea or coffee.
At the Secret Tea Garden, you will arrive as a guest and leave as family.
The Arbour Cafe and Courtyard -
If you’re looking for an outdoor setting to enjoy your Afternoon Tea experience, the aptly named Arbour Cafe is a must. This dreamy French-inspired cafe is set under an expanse of Autumn-dappled leaves and its hidden courtyard is a must to enjoy in the summertime and for anybody who wants to be whisked away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a short while. Their menu boasts a fine culinary selection from grilled salmon to steaks and their canape menu will leave your pallet satisfied with all the unique tastes it has to offer. High tea here can be arranged as a private function, with drinks being charged per consumption and the choice ranging from fruity champagnes to freshly squeezed fruit juices. Custom cakes, tartlets and macarons are available upon request and are charged upon consumption. A true winner of the canape menu is the mini crustless spinach and feta quiches.
