So, you’re in Johannesburg, the land of electric energy, bustling streets, and endless surprises. If you’re here on business or just passing through, you’ll want to know about High Tea Johannesburg—the city’s take on this classic afternoon indulgence. Trust me when I say, if you’re into tea (and who isn’t?), this is where you need to be. Grab your hat and your finest manners; we’re about to embark on an afternoon of tea, scones, and maybe a little gossip.
Now, I get it. High Tea sounds like something straight out of a Jane Austen novel. Fancy china, finger sandwiches, and all that jazz. But Johannesburg? Yeah, we do High Tea with flair. Think lush hotel gardens, Instagram-worthy pastries, and tea so good you’ll wonder if it was brewed by the Queen herself. Whether you’re all about luxury or just after a chill vibe with a side of tea, Johannesburg’s spots have you covered. Let’s dive into where to find the best of the best.
The Origins of High Tea
Ah, the history of High Tea. It all started in England (of course), around the 19th century. Back then, it was more like a “working-class snack” served after a long day’s toil—picture bread, cheese, and a hearty brew. Fast forward a few hundred years, and it’s evolved into an afternoon ritual of elegance. Now, it’s an event. Finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and a solid tea lineup. We’re talking a full-on experience that could make anyone feel like royalty.
Here’s the kicker: in Johannesburg, we don’t just serve the classic afternoon tea. We jazz it up. Add local influences, unique flavors, and venues that are just plain gorgeous. Sure, the essentials are there—the sandwiches, the cakes, the tea—but we bring our own vibe to it. You won’t find a more eclectic High Tea scene anywhere else.
Where to Find the Best High Tea Johannesburg
You’ve got the vibe. Now let’s talk spots. These are the places that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world—a world of tea, treats, and relaxation.
1. The Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa
Okay, so this place. If you’re looking for High Tea Johannesburg-style, The Saxon is where you want to go. I’m talking luxury. The kind that makes you feel like you should be wearing a tiara just to walk in. The Saxon, nestled in Sandhurst, is like walking into a dream. You sit down, and immediately, it’s like they’ve read your mind: you’re craving tea, you’re craving elegance, and they deliver.
The spread? Wicked. We’re talking everything from dainty finger sandwiches to scones that are practically begging you to take a second one. And the tea selection? Let me just say it’ll take you a good 10 minutes to pick between Earl Grey, green tea, and whatever else they’ve got brewing. Anyway, the tea service here is perfection—smooth, warm, and with that touch of class. I might’ve spent five minutes just admiring the teapot, but that’s another story.
2. The Westcliff Hotel by Orient-Express
This place is so picturesque it hurts. Seriously, if you want views that’ll make you sigh dramatically (and maybe Instagram it), head to The Westcliff Hotel. Perched on a hill, the place offers panoramic views of Johannesburg’s skyline, and the High Tea here is no joke.
The setting is pure charm, with a slightly vintage feel, and it’s perfect for sipping tea while you pretend you’re in a 1940s romance movie. The treats? Where do I even begin? The pastries are practically works of art. And don’t even get me started on the scones. They’re served with jam and cream that’ll make your taste buds sing. I’d tell you how many times I’ve been back, but I’m embarrassed to admit it.
3. The Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff
The Four Seasons isn’t just a hotel. It’s an experience. I don’t know how they do it, but when you walk into The Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, you feel like royalty. It’s all elegant, plush, and decked out with views that make you stop and stare. Their High Tea? Like a cozy hug wrapped in a delicate porcelain teacup.
They’ve got everything, from finger sandwiches to decadent cakes and an assortment of teas that will make you wonder if you’ve stumbled into an exotic marketplace. If you want the full High Tea treatment in a spot where the atmosphere alone will make you feel fancy, this is your place. Honestly, I half-expected the Queen to pop in and join me. I was hoping she’d offer some life advice, but no luck.
4. Tea Room at The Palace of the Lost City
Okay, let me tell you—this place isn’t just any High Tea venue. The Palace of the Lost City at Sun City is like stepping into a different world. It’s opulent, it’s lush, and it’s downright magical. You’re not just getting tea here. You’re getting an experience. The Tea Room serves one of the most extravagant High Teas you’ll ever have. They pull out all the stops with gourmet pastries, perfectly brewed tea, and a setting that’s almost too pretty to be real.
I mean, come on—this is the kind of place where you’ll want to sip tea like you’ve just been crowned a queen (even if you’re just here for a quick afternoon escape). The whole vibe feels so otherworldly that I honestly wouldn’t be shocked if someone handed me a golden ticket to a secret royal event.
5. The Living Room
Not all High Teas need to be fancy-pants. If you’re looking for something a little more chill, a little more laid-back, then The Living Room in Maboneng is where you need to be. The vibe here? Chill. It’s like the cool kid of the High Tea world. This rooftop venue lets you sip tea while soaking up the city’s skyline.
And let me tell you, the food? Bomb. They’ve got artisan cakes, pastries, and tea so good, you’ll wonder if it was brewed by a tea wizard. I’ll be honest—I didn’t know what half the cakes were called, but they were all delicious. And the best part? You don’t need to wear heels, and you can still feel like you’re at the best High Tea in town.
6. The Rand Club
If you want a slice of history with your tea, look no further than the Rand Club. This spot is hella old-school and oozes that “vintage” charm. Picture dark wood paneling, rich history, and an ambiance that makes you feel like you’re in a Hemingway novel. This isn’t just any tea; it’s tea with a side of nostalgia.
The Rand Club’s High Tea is the real deal. Finger sandwiches? Check. Scones? Check. Teas that could make a grown man weep? Double check. Plus, the building is filled with old-school charm that makes you feel like you’re part of Johannesburg’s storied past. I tried to pull off some elegant conversation here but ended up talking about my most recent failed plant purchases. (RIP, Gary the Sourdough Starter and Basil the Herb).
Why Choose High Tea in Johannesburg?
Okay, so why does High Tea Johannesburg stand out? Because Johannesburg is a city that does everything a little differently. We’re not just about the fancy tea and scones—we’ve got creativity, flair, and local flavor baked right in. You could go to a high-end hotel for your High Tea, but you could also hit up a trendy rooftop with views that’ll blow your mind.
One thing’s for sure: when you sip your tea in Johannesburg, you’re not just getting tea. You’re getting a story, a slice of the city, and an afternoon you won’t forget. So grab your hat, head to one of these spots, and remember: it’s not just about the tea. It’s about the experience.
