An afternoon of elegance: The Savoy's legendary High Tea arrives in Cape Town
The London Savoy's iconic afternoon tea has made its way to Cape Town.
Image: The Savoy Hotel
Stepping into The Savoy in London's Strand is to step back in time, where a century-old tradition of afternoon tea reigns supreme.
Since its opening in 1889, this iconic hotel has set the global benchmark for luxury, attracting a glittering array of celebrities and royalty from its earliest days.
From Hollywood icons like Charlie Chaplin and Marilyn Monroe to modern-day stars like Rihanna and Taylor Swift, The Savoy's high tea has long been a theatrical affair, a place to see and be seen, served with an impeccable sense of style and occasion.
It's a legacy that has stood the test of time, and now, for a limited time, the tradition and culinary artistry of this legendary London establishment are coming to Cape Town.
In a culinary collaboration that marries two of the world's iconic hotels, London's The Savoy is joining forces with the Cape Grace hotel to present an exclusive afternoon tea experience this August.
Set within the sophisticated surrounds of Heirloom, the Cape Grace's fine dining restaurant, this special event celebrates the timeless ritual of afternoon tea with a distinct South African twist.
To ensure the experience is a faithful replication of The Savoy's world-famous offering, three esteemed members of the hotel's team have journeyed to Cape Town.
Liesl Booysen, a South African-born sous chef with a classical Le Cordon Bleu training, returning home to infuse her passion for fermentation and Asian cooking traditions into the menu.
John Almeida, a celebrated Pastry Chef de Partie, whose recent appearances on “The Great British Bake Off: The Professionals” have solidified his reputation as a rising star in the world of chocolate and pastry.
Dylan Martin, a Johannesburg native now based at The Savoy's Gallery Restaurant, who brings his warm and intuitive hospitality to this special homecoming.
Together with the Cape Grace team, they have co-created a refined menu that seamlessly blends The Savoy’s signature style with the best of seasonal, local ingredients.
Guests can expect traditional finger sandwiches with a regional flair, such as coronation chicken and Franschhoek smoked trout.
The star of the show will be The Savoy’s signature raisin scones, served with clotted cream, alongside patisserie highlights, including the famed strawberries and cream cake, a favourite from the London menu, now brought to life in Cape Town.
The Savoy Afternoon Tea at Cape Grace will be served at two sittings daily, at 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM, on select dates in August.
IOL Lifestyle