Craft beer, artisanal coffee, artistic chocolate and craft gin have all had their moment in the spotlight and now it’s teas turn, with specialty tea spots popping up all over Cape Town.
From traditional tea ceremonies from the east, to cups of caffeine-free rooibos and red cappuccinos (a cup of rooibos with foam) here’s where you should go to get your tea fix in the Mother City.
Lady Bonin’s Tea Bar
South Africa’s first tea bar on Long Street is the tea-drinkers answer to a modern coffee shop with takeaway teas, tea lattes, iced tea slushies, and tea infused pastries and treats. Founder Jessica Bonin started out selling tea from a caravan in 2010 and is seriously passionate about the benefits of tea. Enjoy a takeaway cuppa or relax and sip away in their courtyard after browsing their 45 loose-leaf teas on sale. As Jessica would say, “why should coffee have all the fun?”
Website: www.ladyboninstea.com
O’ways Teacafé
The renowned coffee company Origin branched out into the art of tea with Nigiro (Origin spelled backward – so clever). At O’ways Teacafé in Claremont, you can sample over 100 varieties of Nigiro teas from all over the world, as well as coffee and seasonal foods. Try their tea appreciation tasting to learn more about teas or unwind with a traditional guided Taiwanese High Mountain tea ceremony.
Website: www.oways.co.za
The Botanical Tea House
This little sanctuary in Mowbray serves tea in laboratory bottles on tripods and a sense of serenity comes standard. The whimsical home is decorated with art and plant life. Find a spot to sit, and enjoy a wide variety of teas, baked goods, a hearty breakfast, or an earthy lunch.
Website: www.facebook.com/pg/TheBotanicalTeaHouse
Kirstenbosch Tea Room Restaurant
The abundant Kirstenbosch is the perfect place to sit down and relax with a cup of tea (or two). Their English Tea for two picnic offering includes a sandwich, two mini spinach and feta quiches, homemade scones with jam, and a slice of cake. You can also order what you like off their menu, and they will pack it for you so you can find a quiet spot to enjoy your tea, the view of the mountains, and the natural beauty around you.
Website: www.ktr.co.za
Cape Fynbos Tea Ceremony
The Cape is known for its distinct fynbos vegetation that is unique to the Cape region. The Cape Fynbos Tea Ceremony in the Company’s Garden offers you a chance to taste some of the indigenous herbs that have been used for centuries. From the naturally sweet rooibos and honeybush to the aromatic and spicy buchu and cancer bush, you’ll taste a wide range of herbs and be able to mix your very own tea with these leaves, spices, and herbs. The ceremony is informative, and the tea is served with handmade Turkish delight.
Website: www.capefynbosteaceremony.com
Rhodes Memorial Restaurant and Tea Garden
Tea with a view is what you’re in for when you visit the Rhodes Memorial Restaurant and Tea Garden on the slopes of Devil’s Peak. In addition to their red espressos, red cappuccinos, red lattes, and spiced chai latte, they also offer a selection of herbal teas and special blends.
Website: www.rhodesmemorial.co.za
