Tea Under The Trees
Driving along a dusty road off the main stretch of Paarl lies St. Pieter’s Roche, a working farm that is responsible for the grapes harvested under the umbrella of the Reliance Compost group. It’s a hive of activity, tractors coming and going, people carting produce all over the show but a walk through the vineyards reveals an oasis away from the hustle of the farm. Here you’ll find Tea Under the Trees, a casual café run by chef Kim and her small team, out of the farmhouse kitchen where Reliance founder Eddie Redelinghuys lives with his wife, Debbie.
The homely setting sets the tone for the style and mood for the entire café, offering visitors in the area some respite in a shady spot under the oak trees, along with a cup of tea and cake.
Visitors come from far and wide for Kim’s baked goods. Their carrot cake is probably their most famous treat on offer, with their baked cheesecake not far behind. All of the produce used falls under the farm’s ethos of being as organic as possible and a lot of the accompanying fruit, vegetables and herbs all come from their own little garden. They use the seasonal berries to adorn the cakes, especially that cheescake, and combine the herbs and veggies in their array of salads, sandwiches and quiches. Once the cakes are topped, the leftover fruit is turned into jams and preserves that are also available for purchase.
If you are after a venue for a special occasion, you can book the cafe out for a number anywhere between 20 and 100 people. Tea Under the Trees offers a function menu that is perfect for that birthday, kitchen tea or baby shower you have to plan. Whatever mood you’re in, Tea Under the Trees is the perfect place to recline in the garden with a slice of cake, take in the chitter-chatter of the birds and even enjoy a spot of shopping at the curated antiques store.
So, if you’re in the area look out for this gem and spend a wonderful, well-fed day on the farm.
Tea Under the Trees is located on St. Pieter’s Roche farmstead Main Road, Paarl.
Call 072 871 9103 for more information.
Monday to Friday 9h00-16h00. Saturday for private functions only by private arrangement. Closed Sundays.
teaunderthetrees.co.za
Delicious produce is grown in healthy, living soil. #Harvesttotable series brought to you by Reliance Compost.