Review: Cape Grace Brings a Slice of London’s Most Iconic Afternoon Tea to Cape Town

By Gift Khosa

There are few rituals as quintessentially British as Afternoon Tea, and fewer still as legendary as the one served at The Savoy in London. This winter, however, you don’t need a long-haul flight to experience it.

Returning for its second year, From London, With Love sees Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, reunite with its sister property, The Savoy, for a limited-edition Afternoon Tea that brings together two iconic destinations in one beautifully curated experience.

Having somehow never stepped inside Cape Grace before, I quickly realised what I’ve been missing. The moment you arrive, the pace slows. The lobby is understated yet undeniably luxurious, with warm, polished interiors and a team that welcomes you with the kind of effortless hospitality that can’t be taught.

The experience takes place at Heirloom, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the marina and Table Mountain while the gentle sound of live piano drifts through the dining room. It’s elegant without feeling overly formal—a space where London tradition meets Cape Town’s unmistakable charm.

Before we were seated, Hazel welcomed us with infectious warmth, setting the tone for what would become one of the city’s most memorable afternoon dining experiences.

A glass of bubbles arrived soon after, followed by an introduction from our host, Zine, who effortlessly guided us through the story behind the collaboration. This isn’t simply a themed Afternoon Tea. Members of The Savoy’s pastry and service team have travelled to Cape Town to recreate one of London’s most celebrated traditions, adding an authenticity that makes the experience feel genuinely special.

A Love Letter to Two Cities

The menu pays homage to The Savoy’s rich culinary heritage while celebrating the flavours of the Cape.

The savoury selection is where the experience quietly begins to impress. The smoked snoek pâté with apricot gel on sourdough melba is an inspired South African interpretation, while the free-range chicken roulade is beautifully balanced and delicately prepared.

The finger sandwiches are everything they should be—classic, elegant and impossible to stop eating. The free-range egg mayonnaise was wonderfully creamy, the coronation chicken perfectly spiced, while the grass-fed beef with peppadew cream cheese quickly became a personal favourite.

Just remember to pace yourself.

The tea menu deserves just as much attention. We opted for Cape Grace’s exclusive signature blend, a fragrant combination of rooibos, herbs, warming spices and delicate fruit notes. It’s the kind of tea you immediately want to take home—and if Cape Grace ever bottles it, we’ll happily be first in line.

Save Room for Dessert

If the savouries set the scene, the pastries steal it.

Warm buttermilk and raisin scones arrive fresh from the oven before giving way to an elegant collection of desserts that are almost too beautiful to eat.

Almost.

The reimagined Peach Melba nods to Auguste Escoffier’s famous creation at The Savoy, while the miniature Scoff Tiramisu—flown in as part of The Savoy’s celebrated scone bakery concept—is worth the reservation alone.

Light, rich and perfectly balanced, it instantly transported me back to Italy, where I tasted one of the best tiramisus of my life. This version is every bit as memorable.

More Than Afternoon Tea

What lingers long after the last pastry isn’t only the food but the people behind the experience.

Hazel, Zine and Belewa brought genuine warmth, humour and effortless professionalism to every interaction. Their passion for Cape Grace is infectious, making the afternoon feel less like a hotel experience and more like being welcomed into someone’s home.

Before we left, they kindly showed us around the property, including the hotel’s elegant bar, which has already earned a place on my list for a return visit.

That’s perhaps what makes From London, With Love so compelling. Yes, the food is exceptional. Yes, the setting is spectacular. But it’s the combination of thoughtful hospitality, remarkable attention to detail and a genuine sense of occasion that makes this collaboration feel special.

For a few leisurely hours overlooking Cape Town’s marina, London doesn’t feel nearly as far away.

The Details

From London, With Love Afternoon Tea
📍 Heirloom at Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
📅 Until 13 September 2026
💰 R750 per person, including a welcome glass of bubbles or iced tea

Reservations are essential—and after this experience, it’s easy to see why.

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