I recently spent a wonderful afternoon, with one of my closest friends, at the Taj Hotel Cape Town. I could think of nothing better than afternoon tea, at a luxurious hotel, in the heart of the Cape Town CBD. What a treat and some much needed girly time!
Taj Cape Town
Visiting the Taj Hotel Cape Town has been on my bucket list for quite a while, so naturally, I was excited about afternoon tea. A bonus was a tour of the hotel. More importantly, we got to take a peek at the Presidential Suite. All I can say is pure LUXURY!!!
The Hotel
The Presidential Suite truly is the epitome of luxury, with most exceptional attention to detail! As a guest, you would never have to leave the comfort of your suite because everything is on hand – even a massage room!
One of the most spectacular features has to be the beautiful bathroom above, with the most beautiful view of the city!
Taj Cape Town is a luxury hotel set in the vibrant heart of Cape Town. Guests can expect a combination of refined Indian hospitality, as well as an authentic Cape Town experience.
The Reserve
Occupying two historic buildings, it retains the architecture and many meticulously restored interior features of the original South African Reserve Bank and the old BoE building – formerly the Temple Chambers, built in 1890. Seventeen new storeys house suites, guestrooms and residences with magnificent views of the Mother City and the iconic Table Mountain.
On the doorstep of the Taj, you will find the national and provincial parliaments, Government Avenue leading through the 350-year-old Company Gardens from St George’s Cathedral, the cosmopolitan crafts of St George’s Mall and Greenmarket Square and a diversity of culture, art, entertainment and cuisine.
Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea served in the hotel’s Lobby Lounge, is quite the lavish affair, with a stunning selection of loose leaf teas, as well as the most decadent array of sweet and savoury treats!
On The Menu
From the moment we arrived, we knew we were in good hands. After getting settled, we set about the most important task, of selecting which tea we would have. My friend Shelley opted for a White Tea and I decided on the Red Chai Tea.
Those who know me well understand that I do not have a sweet-tooth, which is why the thought of Afternoon Tea, can often scare me! Most venues tend to go overboard on the sweet treats and neglect the savoury elements. However, this is not the case with the Taj, and I must commend them on their savoury selection.
The Peppadew and Biltong Loaf served with sour cream, deserves a special mention – it was amazing!
After sampling a few of the savoury items, we moved on to the sweet selection. As you can imagine it was pure decadence!
You are spoilt for choice with the amazing selection of cakes and beautifully crafted sweet bites. If I had to choose a favourite I would say it was the Opera Slice, which was not too sweet, quite rich but oh so delicious!
My Thoughts
We had the most wonderful afternoon and ate way too much!!! The tea selection was great and I will definitely be back to sample a few more exotic varietals. The staff were excellent and nothing was too much trouble! The Taj Cape Town is a venue, I would highly recommend, for afternoon tea!
Afternoon Tea at the Taj is the ideal spot for a Birthday party, a kitchen tea, or to enjoy a girly afternoon out! The hotel is ideally located, so after a spot of shopping or visiting the galleries, you can pop in for some tea and delicious treats.
As well as afternoon tea, the Taj Cape Town offers a host of additional dining experiences, which include the Bombay Brasserie, Twankey Bar and Mint Restaurant.
Location and Details
Afternoon Tea is R195 per person and is served daily from 2-5pm. For more information or to book for afternoon tea please either call +27 (0)21 819 2000 or visit the Taj Cape Town Website for more details. Location: Wale Street, Cape Town, South Africa
Image Source: Lobby Lounge – Taj Cape Town, All other images by Fiona Rossiter using either iPhone 5s or Nikon D7100.
Disclosure Ranking: 4
Abby says
I adore exploring all the places that offer High Tea or Afternoon Tea in and around Cape Town but for some reason had never even thought of trying the Taj. After this it is certainly on my list!
Fiona Rossiter says
Hey Abby it is definitely well worth a visit – really loved our afternoon! 🙂
Amy Gelderblom says
Thank you for the lovely words Fiona.
We look forward to having you back at the Taj for more sweet (and savoury) treats.
Kind regards
Amy Gelderblom
Assistant Pastry Chef
Fiona Rossiter says
It is a pleasure Amy! Thank you for stopping by 🙂 Kind regards Fiona