Wednesday, 17 August 2011

Anyone for Tea?

So one of my major weaknesses in life is tea. Good ol' Five Roses, milk first of course (I've been told that's how the Queen drinks it), and you're good to go.
In fact, I think I'd go so far to say that historically, my day is pretty shit unless I've had my morning cuppa.
I'm pregnant now, and my doctor has advised that 8 cups a day is a serious health risk to my child - given that there is apparently more caffeine in tea than coffee (true story). So now I've had to cut down to 4 cups a day and stick to decaf tea. Yes, there is such a thing.
So in light of my passion for this milky beige liquid, I've decided that my first list is going to be of GOOD tea places, where I can go with my mom or friends to enjoy some tea, treats and good company.

1. Nice on Fourth, 4th Ave Parkhurst, 011 788 6286
Over the last couple of months, Nice has become my local morning hangout. The vibe is very laid-back and the decor is simple but effective. Tea is served in beautiful silver teapots with a variety of mismatched china teacups and saucers.
Must try: Cupcakes, lemon ricotta cakes and gingerbread stars (when available)
For the more savory tooth,  the chicken mayonnaise sarmie with balsamic caramalised onions is a must.
Gulia is always a superb waitress.

2. Vovo Telo, 4th Ave Parkhurst
This branch of the Vovo Telo Bakery brand has literally only just opened up, but judging by how busy it is already, it's a sure winner.
Located on Parkhurst's trendy 4th Avenue, Vovo Telo hails from Port Elizabeth originally and their first JHB branch popped up in the other trendy area of 44 Stanley Rd, Braamfontein. Not actually a tea spot per se, but rather an artisan bakery (meaning that they make exceptional homemade breads and pastries etc...), they serve a variety of homely comfort foods, and more importantly, tea and treats.
Stop in for a cuppa and pick up one of the best loaves of ciabatta bread you'll ever eat.

3. Life Grand Cafe, Hyde Park Shopping Centre, 011 325 4350
A sister restaurant to Life in Sandton Square, Life Grand Cafe is the epitome of style and elegance. Beautiful wooden tables, simple yet gorgeous decor, and of course, delicious tea-time treats :)
Owned and run by husband and wife team Maira and John Koutsoudakis, incidentally the twin sister of Vicky Crease, renowned South African caterer, Life Grand Cafe is the perfect place to spend a morning sipping tea and eating fresh croissants. Staff are laid-back, but not terrible. The restaurant also has a retail section where you can buy gifts from R30 to R3000 apparently. Take a padded wallet....

4. Deli on High Street, Melrose Arch, 011 218 4000
This is a great tea spot as it's a little Alice in Wonderland-esque. Beautiful wing back arm chairs, stunning  decor, overall a really nice place to be.
They have a lovely spread of little yummies that will turn any dieter into a cheater.
As far as I know, they also offer champagne/sparkling wine, so it's a nice girly place to come and chill out with friends. Service was good.

5. The Patisserie, Post Office Centre, Rudd Rd, Illovo, 011 268 0044
YUM. That's actually all one can say about this spot. Pink and white candy stripes line the interior walls, but you're not looking at the decor here... decadence, yumminess and calories are the only things you're worrying about when you walk into this shop. Aside from serving all their offerings, it is obviously a patisserie (french for a bakery that specialises in pastry and sweets) and you can buy all of their wares.
Cupcakes with marshmallow frosting, decadent triple chocolate cake, carrot cake, quiche, croissants just to name a few.....Owner Glenda has even trained under Eric Lanlard, the French God of Pastry and Cake himself.
This is one of the ultimate tea time places for me. If you can get a table, that is....



2 comments:

  1. Another great place for tea is Contessa in Rivonia. Some beautiful cakes and breakfasts/light meals too. Nice cosy atmosphere with tables that spill out onto the pavement - and normally pretty busy too!

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  2. Thanks for the tip Kim! Have heard about Contessa, so will have to try it and update the Tea List! :)

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