One&Only Cape Town’s Christmas in July Afternoon Tea Returns

Those wanting to ward off the winter chills and celebrate with friends can join the One&Only’s Christmas in July afternoon tea experience at the end of July. On the cards is an array of lush greens, golden bites, pleasant sweets, and a touch of wickedness to stay festive and warm in Cape Town’s harshest season. Here’s what guests can look forward to.

A festive-themed Afternoon Tea for one weekend only

Each year in winter, the resort adds a festive twist to its celebrated afternoon tea experience for one weekend only. Hosted at the Vista Bar & Lounge in the heart of the luxury resort, guests can indulge in the finely-crafted menu at their own pace.

The savoury spread appeals to a wide range of taste buds and flavour profiles. Highlights include festive Christmas puffs, goat’s cheese quiches, pretzel fingers with salmon, a tomato focaccia with turkey and gruyere, and cranberry-and-feta-filled green pinwheels, among many others. On the sweet side, guests can indulge in matcha-dipped chocolate brownies, strawberry and citrus sablés, Black Forest trifle cups, and even a make-your-own live croffle station with decadent dipping sauces, sliced banana, toasted nuts, and whipped vanilla chantilly cream.

The offerings don’t end there. The dedicated rösti station serves pulled lamb shoulder alongside fermented daikon and smoked carrot purée and truffle chicken roulade with parsnip and date chutney. The fire pit is exclusively for those wanting to make homemade s’mores, with everything from green marshmallows and chocolate soil to crumbled fudge and jelly babies, ensuring everyone with a sweet tooth is properly catered for.

Finally, the cakes include Forest moss cakes and pistachio cheesecake; there are tons of festive treats like Christmas macarons and candy canes, and even brie and camembert wheels from a special tower. See the full menu here.

The event takes place at Vista Bar and Lounge, which offers panoramic views of the Waterfront canals, the city, and Table Mountain from its glass walls, offering a unique perspective on the Mother City while enjoying a festive winter atmosphere.

How to reserve your space for Christmas in July

Cost: R650 per person. Book via email [email protected] or call 021 431 5888

When: Saturday & Sunday, 25 & 26 July | From 2pm – 5pm
Where: Vista Bar and Lounge, One&Only Cape Town, Dock Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town