New proprietors of the historic Palm House Boutique Hotel & Spa in Upper Wynberg, Max Jong and Shelagh Wood, have transformed this stately home into a boutique hotel brimming with character and charm. Together they have curated an elegant urban sanctuary whilst retaining key elements of the original house.
“It was important for us to position Palm House as a real home-from-home for travellers,” says Jong, a seasoned traveller with an understanding of luxury hospitality. “Whether you’re coming down from Johannesburg for meetings once a week, or jetting in from abroad for the summer, we created a space where people can step through the doors and immediately feel at home.”
That crossover appeal for leisure and corporate travel extends to the selection of elegant guest rooms and suites, which are set within the main house and in the spacious Palm House gardens.
Afternoon tea delight
In addition to the venue’s Açaí Spa and it’s many wellness treatments, the hotel has introduced afternoon tea, a tradition dating back to 19th-century England. Here the custom is brought to life with a beautifully arranged three-tiered étagère, featuring an array of pastries, finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and preserves.
Guests can enjoy the afternoon under the shade of age-old palm trees on the Palm Terrace, with views of the beautiful gardens, or opt for the conservatory-style restaurant when the weather is cooler.
The offering includes a selection of house-made savoury and sweet dainties, accompanied by a choice of speciality coffees, teas, fresh juices or a glass of sparkling wine. The experience is helmed by Executive Chef Gregory Henderson, who brings his passion for sustainability to the dining experience at Palm House.
Those partaking in afternoon tea can enjoy nuances and flavours from the Cape, with samples of Boer pampoen and bobotie, and on the sweet side, everything from chocolate sponge cake to chocolate mouse, lemon cheesecake with a caramel centre, fresh raspberries and vanilla mouse. Then there’s scones, quiches, pies with apple chutney and jugs of jus, macaroons, as well as taste sensations of creme Chantilly and date compote. Savoury bites include seared tuna sandwiches with cucumber and blue cheese on soft white bread.
Afternoon tea at the Palm Terrace is priced at R395 per person and includes a speciality coffee, tea, fresh juice or a glass of Cap Classique. Bookings must be made 24-hours in advance. Reserve your table via www.palmhouse.co.za, email explore@palmhouse.co.za or whatsapp 076 487 2016.
All day and dinner dining
Open to both local diners and resident guests, the hotel also offers a culinary experience in two parts: casual all-day dining at the Palm Terrace, and more creative culinary fare in the elegant dinner-only de Tafel room.
Overall, Executive Chef Henderson’s menu highlights Cape Town’s culinary heritage, using locally sourced ingredients to celebrate the region’s vibrant flavours.
What: Palm House Hotel Afternoon Tea
Where: Palm House Boutique Hotel & Spa, Upper Wynberg, Cape Town
Reservations: www.palmhouse.co.za, explore@palmhouse.co.za or WhatsApp 076 487 2016
Follow Palm House: IG @palmhousehotel
WS
