Despite its opulent setting and over-the-top themed glamour inspired by a Tuscan villa, High Tea at the Palazzo Montecasino qualifies as one of Joburg’s best value high teas, at R425 per person. The daily menu, elegantly served, comprises a variety of cakes, petite quiches, assorted sandwiches, scones and a fine selection of single-origin Ceylon teas, and the selection is always evolving to reflect the seasons as well as any major holidays such as Christmas or Valentine's Day.

The sweet display includes pistachio opera cake with raspberry glaze, Nutella cheesecake with joconde sponge, dried fruit nougat, blood orange macarons, and dainty lemon meringue tarts. Savoury treats include smoked chicken and caramelised leeks quiche, smoked salmon sandwiches with cream cheese and cucumber, clotted creme scones with berry jam and gruyere cheese, and fried halloumi, roasted vegetables, and avocado wraps.

High tea is served at the hotel’s Medeo Restaurant terrace overlooking a swimming pool that would make any Hollywood starlet feel at home. The hotel gardens are spectacular and flower arrangements indoors are always something to marvel at, making your high tea feel like an extra special occasion.