Some outings are just lunch. High tea is an occasion.
Tiered stands. Warm scones. Tiny sandwiches you eat in two bites. A pot of tea (or a pink latte) and nowhere else to be for two hours.
If you are planning one in Pretoria or Johannesburg, here is what to expect, what to wear, and how to make sure you actually get a table.
What is high tea?
In South Africa, “high tea” means a tiered spread of sweet and savoury bites served with tea or coffee, usually in the late morning or afternoon. It is a social occasion, often for birthdays, bridal celebrations or a catch-up with friends.
Strictly speaking, the British call this “afternoon tea”. Traditional “high tea” was a heartier evening meal. Local usage has settled on high tea for the elegant version, and that is what cafés here serve.
What is usually on the stand?
- Bottom tier: savoury bites such as finger sandwiches, quiches or wraps
- Middle tier: scones with cream and jam
- Top tier: sweets, such as mini cakes, macarons and tarts
Most venues include a pot of tea or a coffee per person. Bubbles are often an extra.
When high tea is the right choice
- A birthday for someone who loves a pretty table
- A kitchen tea or baby shower, when a full meal feels too formal
- A mother-daughter date
- A girls’ catch-up that deserves more than coffee
How to book high tea at Goddess Café
Goddess Café serves its Fancy High Tea at five cafés: Waterkloof, Rietondale Garden Café and Southdowns (Irene) in Pretoria, and Linden and Park Meadows in Johannesburg.
Book ahead. Saturdays and high teas are usually fully booked. Walk-ins are welcome, but on weekends you may wait.
- Fewer than 16 guests: book a table on DinePlan through the website, or call +27 87 138 3388.
- 16 guests or more: use the Plan My Party form. The Fancy High Tea Affair is one of the curated function menus, and Options 1 to 5 have no venue hire fee.
Want a garden? The Rietondale Garden Café is the leafy option, with tables under the trees. One regular describes sitting there with birds singing and a pink latte in hand.
Want a custom cake? Add a Miss Cake cake with 24 hours’ notice, or bring your own (R250 cakeage).
A few etiquette basics (that nobody will enforce)
- Start at the bottom tier and work up.
- Split scones by hand rather than cutting them.
- Arrive on time: kitchens time the stands for your booking.
- Dress up a little. It is half the fun.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a high tea take? Plan on about two hours.
Is there a vegetarian or vegan option? The menu includes vegetarian and vegan options. Mention dietary needs when you book.
Can kids join? Yes. For a dedicated kids’ celebration, see the Goddess Petite Party packages.
Do you accept cash? No. Goddess Café is cashless and accepts card, including American Express and Diners Club.
Make an ordinary afternoon feel like an occasion
Book your high tea, or plan a high tea function for 16 or more.