High Tea at La Residence

A Delicious Slice of Heaven: High Tea at La Residence, Franschhoek

As the rolling vineyards and dramatic mountains of Franschhoek fade into the distance behind your car, a sense of anticipation builds. Firstly, you’ve heard whispers about La Residence—a hideaway of opulence, charm, and indulgence nestled in South Africa’s culinary capital. But nothing, absolutely nothing, prepares you for the magical welcome that awaits.

Where is La Residence?

Secondly, La Residence is tucked away in the Franschhoek Valley, a small town about an hour and a half from Cape Town. Known for its French-inspired food scene, historic wine estates, and breathtaking scenery, Franschhoek is one of South Africa’s most beloved travel destinations. And La Residence? It’s the crown jewel.

What is La Residence?

La Residence is a five-star boutique hotel that feels more like a luxurious fantasy. It forms part of The Royal Portfolio, owned by Liz Biden, who transformed a fruit orchard into this heavenly escape. Every inch of La Residence reflects her artistic flair and love of travel, showcasing her personal collection of hand-selected furniture, artwork, and fabrics gathered from around the world.

The Grand Entrance
As you arrive, you’re immediately greeted by cheerful staff—smiling, waving, and welcoming you with the warmth usually reserved for long-lost friends. Their joy is contagious. Without delay, the doorman opens the oversized wooden doors, revealing the lavish interior of the main building. It’s as if you’ve stepped into a dream.

Décor Fit for a Maharaja

Thirdly, the décor is gloriously over the top. In the best way possible. Think bold colours—royal purples, deep emeralds, burnished golds. Rich velvets. Hand-painted Chinese screens. Enormous vases filled with fresh blooms. Uniquely, chandeliers shimmer above your head like something out of a Venetian ballroom. Indian silks blend effortlessly with African animal prints, and antique furniture sits beside vibrant contemporary art. It’s theatrical, fabulous, and completely unforgettable.

The Gift Boutique

Here, Liz Biden’s discerning eye shines once again. Similarly, every item in the boutique is handpicked—silk scarves, artisan jewellery, handbags, books, and luxe garments. It’s a curated wonderland where you’ll want to touch, try, and take everything home.

The Sitting Room

Depending on the season, you might cosy up in front of a roaring fireplace or sink into a velvet sofa with a book, the summer breeze wafting in from the garden. The sitting room is elegant, comfortable, and impossibly serene. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a pre-dinner drink—or in our case, the main event: High Tea.

The High Tea Experience

Now, let’s talk tea. The magnificent high tea.

In addition, you are led to your table, elegantly set with polished silver, fine china, and crystal glasses. The setting is a scene from a romantic film. Sparkling chandeliers hang above, and fresh roses sit at each place.

Soon, the magic begins. Tiered trays arrive—works of edible art, each layer more enchanting than the last. The savoury selection includes miniature quiches, smoked salmon sandwiches, and delicate tartlets bursting with local flavour. There are cheese puffs so light they almost float. A tomato and goat cheese mille-feuille that melts in your mouth.

Finally, the sweet side appears. Ultimately, it’s time to brace yourself.

Macarons, rich chocolate truffles, lemon meringue kisses, petit fours, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and the lightest sponge cake you’ve ever tasted. Each item is a bite-sized heaven.

Additionally, the pastry chef herself arrives at our table, beaming with pride. Alongside her creations, she walks us through each item with passion and joy, and suddenly, everything tastes even better. It’s not just food—it’s storytelling on a plate.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to note that High Tea at La Residence is not just an afternoon outing—it’s a sensory journey. From the warm welcome to the final crumb of pastry, everything is elevated, elegant, and deeply personal. Coupled with that, it’s a place where the whimsical meets the luxurious, and every detail is designed to delight.

It’s important to note that you must come hungry. Equally important, come curious. Not to mention, once you’ve experienced High Tea at La Residence, nothing else will ever quite compare.