Tea culture has been flourishing in Cape Town, with a wide array of options available, from the classic and traditional to the modern and experimental.
Whether you’re looking for a cosy and quiet spot to catch up with friends or a stylish venue for a special occasion, the city has got you covered.
Here are five of the best places to go for tea in Cape Town, each offering its own unique twist on this beloved beverage:
Nigiro Tea
Tea is an art that requires knowledge, patience and a love for the beverage. In a world where coffee and wine dominate the drinking culture, Nigiro Tea offers a unique experience for tea lovers.
The brand is a purveyor of imported and locally sourced fair-trade, ethically produced and organic loose-leaf tea. With over 100 different flavours and an ever-growing variety of tea categories, Nigiro Tea has been serving world-class tea in South Africa since 2008.
Nigiro Tea offers an array of tea ware and different types of teas that cater to different occasions.
- Location: Nigiro Teacafe, 71 Gabriel Rd, Plumstead
- Times: Monday to Friday: 8am to 5pm | Saturday: 9am to 3pm | Sunday: 9am to 2pm
- Website: nigiro.co.za
Peacock Tea and Coffee
Peacock Tea and Coffee Traders is a Cape Town-based company that has been providing South Africa with premium teas and coffees since 1966.
Their expert tea blenders meticulously select and blend the best teas from around the world, making sure to tantalise even the most discerning palates. Its roastery in Cape Town blends an extensive selection of teas by hand.
Peacock Tea and Coffee Traders also stocks a range of tea-related machines, equipment, accessories and crockery from around the world to ensure that your tea ritual is the most satisfying and special experience possible.
- Location: Shop 123, Canal Walk, Century Place Blvd, Century City
- Times: Every day 9am to 9pm
- Website: peacockteaandcoffee.co.za
Also read: 10 Cape Town restaurants serving Mother’s Day lunches and high teas
Enmasse Tea Merchants
Enmasse Tea Merchants, established in 2011, is on a mission to take the art of tea drinking to new heights. Its unique teas are the result of combining a deep respect for tradition and healthy living with a passion for innovative blending.
Each blend is crafted in Cape Town, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The result is a range of teas that are unlike any others.
Whether you prefer a classic blend or something more experimental, Enmasse Tea Merchants has something to offer.
- Location: 125 Hope Street, Gate 2, Gardens
- Times: Monday to Friday: 8am to 7pm | Saturday to Sunday: 9am to 7pm
- Website: enmassetea.co.za
Dilmah Tea
Dilmah is a tea company that values kindness above all else. It believes in showing kindness to nature by growing only the finest ingredients and protecting the environment.
Dilmah takes pride in not mixing their teas and upholding the highest standards without compromising quality to enhance profit. The company’s commitment to taste, goodness, and purpose extends to its employees and their families.
Dilmah is a trusted brand that has been recognised for its sustainability efforts, winning several awards.
- Location: Unit 9 – 11, Grasso Business Park, 4 Bp Rd, Montague Gardens
- Times: Monday to Thursday: 8:30am to 5pm | Sunday: 8:30am to 4pm
- Website: shop.dilmahtea.co.za
Jasmine Tea Mill
China has a rich history with tea, with exports dating back to 610 AD. The tradition of Chinese tea has become synonymous with refined culture worldwide, and it is considered a witness to Chinese history.
Recent scientific studies have also revealed that Chinese tea has numerous health benefits, such as aiding in the fight against cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, eczema and weight loss.
As research continues, more benefits are expected to be discovered. At Jasmine Tea Mill, they are passionate about sharing the best Chinese teas with customers, offering a direct selection from China.
- Location: Shop 1 Twin Oaks Center, 144 Main Rd, Somerset West
- Times: Monday to Friday: 9am to 3pm | Saturday: 9am to 12pm
- Website: teamill.co.za
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Picture: Peacock Tea & Coffee / Facebook