Tea Spots in Jo’burg for People Who Take Their Tea Very Seriously
There’s something about taking time out for tea that feels a little more intentional. Maybe it’s the ritual of choosing your blend, the little sandwiches and cakes that come with it, or simply sitting somewhere beautiful with nowhere else to be.
Victory 'Tori' Mbombo
August 13, 2026
And while Johannesburg may be better known for its coffee culture, the city has no shortage of places where tea gets the attention it deserves. From Chinese tea traditions and speciality blends to charming tea rooms and garden escapes, these are five spots worth adding to your next afternoon out.
Tea & Antique
If you like your tea with a side of history, start here.
Tea & Antique brings together Chinese tea, home-style Chinese cooking and a collection of antiques in a space that feels like part restaurant, part tea house and part living museum. The family-run spot was founded by Jonsen Wang and NiNi Zhao, with the couple bringing their connection to Chinese food, tea and culture to Johannesburg.
Tea is very much part of the experience here. You can explore a selection of Chinese teas served hot or cold, while the space itself is filled with traditional pieces, ceramics and antique furniture. The tea experience can also extend to traditional tea-pouring ceremonies, making this one for anyone who wants to go beyond simply ordering a cup.
There are currently branches in Bedfordview and Parkmore, Sandton, so whether you're in the East or north of Joburg, you can get your tea fix.
Where: Bedfordview and Parkmore, Sandton
Nigiro Tea House
For the person who can spend an unreasonable amount of time deciding what tea to drink, Nigiro is your place.
The Parkhurst tea house is dedicated to the world of tea, offering an opportunity to slow down and explore different varieties rather than treating tea as an afterthought. Nigiro’s Johannesburg location is on 6th Street in Parkhurst and is open daily.
The brand has built its identity around tea culture, with a range that goes well beyond the standard supermarket tea bag. It’s the kind of place where you can discover something new, pick up tea to take home and make your afternoon ritual a little more interesting.
And because it’s in Parkhurst, you can easily turn your tea run into a full afternoon of wandering around one of Joburg’s most walkable neighbourhoods.
Where: 38 6th Street, Parkhurst
Gabriella’s Tea Room
Tucked away in Parktown North, Gabriella’s Tea Room feels like the sort of place you discover through a friend who insists, “Trust me, you have to go.”
Set behind lush greenery, the tea room combines an old-world aesthetic with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. Think antique chandeliers, greenery and a cosy setting that makes an ordinary afternoon feel like an occasion.
The focus here is very much on the classic tea-room experience, with freshly baked treats and afternoon tea served alongside the option to make the occasion a little more special. The tea room also hosts high teas and private celebrations, making it a popular choice for birthdays, showers and other gatherings.
Come for the tea, stay for the cakes and probably take a few photos while you're there.
Where: 43 7th Avenue, Parktown North
Popo’s Tea House
If your idea of a good tea spot is somewhere that feels a little more relaxed and neighbourhood-driven, Popo’s Tea House is worth knowing about.
With locations in Rosebank and Rivonia, it’s an easy option when you want to catch up with a friend over a cup of tea without turning it into a full-blown high-tea production.
It’s a reminder that taking tea seriously doesn't necessarily mean dressing up, booking weeks ahead or waiting for a special occasion. Sometimes it simply means finding a good spot, ordering something you actually enjoy and giving yourself an hour to sit down and catch up.
Where: Rosebank and Rivonia
The Secret Tea Garden
The name isn't exactly subtle, but once you arrive at The Secret Tea Garden, you'll understand it.
Set within the gardens of historic Norscot Manor in Fourways, this is one of those places that feels surprisingly removed from the pace of the city. You can settle onto the terrace overlooking the gardens and spend an afternoon over tea, cakes and sandwiches.
For something more traditional, their Tea for Two comes with tea or coffee alongside scones, cake of the day, dainty sandwiches and biscuits. They also offer high tea experiences for special occasions, making it a particularly good option for birthdays, showers or a long overdue catch-up.
The gardens and family-friendly setting make it a little different from the more formal tea rooms on this list — and that's exactly the appeal.
Where: 16B Penguin Drive, Norscot Manor, Fourways
Tea time, but make it Joburg
Whether you’re looking for speciality tea, a traditional tea ceremony, an elegant high tea or simply somewhere beautiful to spend a slow afternoon, Johannesburg has plenty of options beyond the usual coffee shop.
So put the kettle on or better yet, leave the house and let someone else do it.
Which one are you trying first?
Please check directly with each venue before visiting, as menus, opening hours and tea experiences can change.
