There was a cool breeze in the air when we arrived. Brown and yellow leaves twirled down from old oak trees on Joburg’s Wits campus and in the distance, tables stood beautifully prepared with all things pink, white and gold. Olives & Plates at Wits Club knows a thing or two about setting up the perfect high tea, that’s for sure.
As we took our seats on chairs with golden-coloured velvet detail, it was as if we had suddenly escaped reality and landed in Alice’s magical wonderland. We’ve found that the outcome of an experience such as this often lies in the details and well, Olives & Plates certainly got the memo. In fact, the high tea kicked off with special details including a glass of L’ormarins Brut Cap Classique, coupled with the most decadent macarons. In addition, we were treated to an elegantly plated Berry Panna Cotta, signalling Olives & Plates’ welcome to its high tea guests.
The typical early May morning was then filled with all things pretty and our senses ran wild. Each of the high tea’s Imported Teas were meticulously curated by Master Tea Blender Ronnefeldt. While we chose favourites like Vanilla-infused Rooibos and the famous English Tea, there were numerous choices. Furthermore, considering the fact that you pay R590 per person for the high tea, you certainly get what you pay for.
In addition to the lovely teas, a selection of spectacularly prepared savoury options were served on a golden stand. There were smoked salmon bagels with caper spears and cream cheese, as well as mini quiches with caramelised butternut and gorgonzola, topped with chilli compote and a creamy feta. We also enjoyed the Paw Paw & Labneh Minis, which came topped with almonds and a drizzle of honey. And, what is a high tea without a selection of Deluxe Tea Sandwiches?
Of course, the Patisserie selection had our names written all over it, with freshly baked scones that came with decadently served farm butter, clotted cream and homemade preserves. The Berry Mousse Ganache Torte was topped with gold dusted hazelnuts and although it was the perfect portion, we couldn’t help but want more. Then, there was also the White Chocolate Salted Caramel Cheesecake and the Sweet Coconut Cake. Oh, and the Olives & Plates Signature Mille Fueille All Butter Puff Pastry, English Strawberries and Crème Anglaise.
Young and old gathered to celebrate life and the beauty of it as autumn leaves wove through the wind, lightly landing on the ground. Families and friends sat together, laughing. Kids ran around the fountain, frolicking gleefully. Tea and bubbly were continuously being poured and people were oohing and aahing about the lovely setup and the delightful high tea treats. It was a moment out of Alice in Wonderland – complete with lace table detail and floral bone china tea sets.
Olives & Plates offers these high teas every first weekend of the month and it truly is something special – perfect for a celebratory occasion, whether you have something specific to celebrate, or merely want to celebrate life. Contact club@olivesandplates.co.za for more info.
P.S. There are additional fees applicable for group bookings of 15 people or more.
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