On the 28th May I went to collect my parents for my Mother’s birthday surprise. I had told them that I needed to fetch them at 1:45pm in order to reach our destination before 2:30pm. We drove and drove and my Mom got more excited and interested as to where we were going. Eventually we reached Umhlanga and I headed down towards the Oyster Box Hotel and turned in and said “surprise!”
We were greeted by the very well dressed guard at the booms who asked me whether we were checking in (I wish!) or were there for the high tea. I confirmed we were there for the high tea and gave my name. He told us to drive into the parking area and that an attendant would help us find a parking. I safely parked my car and on the way to the
hotel I said to my Mom that I hoped we would get to see the famous cat Skabenga. Just as I finished that
sentence we reach the entrance and there he is, lying down and giving himself a clean. How funny!
hotel I said to my Mom that I hoped we would get to see the famous cat Skabenga. Just as I finished that
sentence we reach the entrance and there he is, lying down and giving himself a clean. How funny!
We were warmly welcomed and the door opened for us to enter the hotel. Made our way to the Palm Court where the high tea is held and I gave my name. What a fabulous table with comfy chairs and beautiful tea cups. There was even a welcome card on the table (so impressed).
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| Love the pattern |
Our waiter for the afternoon was Marcel and he explained that he would serve us tea, coffee and juice when we wanted. Also offered a welcoming sparkling wine or non-alcoholic if you wished. The high tea eats were on our left and we could serve ourselves. My Mom was thrilled!
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| Marcel |
The high tea eats table was groaning with delicious looking food. Dad was happy with the savoury eats selection as he doesn’t have much of a sweet tooth. There were beef sosaties, samoosas and sandwiches with different fillings. On the sweet side there was cake, bread and butter pudding with hot custard, crème brulee, tea breads, cupcakes and a whole lot more.
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| Bar One cake – divine! |
Excuse us while we tuck in ….
While we were busy enjoying the delights of the high tea a member of staff (sorry didn’t remember her name) came round to find out how we were doing and to wish my Mom a happy birthday. When I phoned to make the booking for the high tea I was asked if it was for a special occasion and had said yes for my Mother’s birthday.
Excuse us while we continue to tuck in ….
I was extremely impressed with the service we received, felt like royalty. Marcel would remove our plates once we were done and would make sure our coffee pot was full, and give us more cutlery when we needed. I loved
all the eats I had but my favourite was the incredible crème brulee – creamy and so divine!
all the eats I had but my favourite was the incredible crème brulee – creamy and so divine!
We had basically finished eating when Marcel appeared with a plate for my Mother. On the plate was Happy Birthday piped in chocolate and a cupcake with a lit sparkler. As it was delivered the man playing the piano
played the happy birthday song. The delight on my Mom’s face was priceless. By the way – I did not organise the cupcake it was a complete surprise to me too. Mom was too full to eat the cupcake so Marcel put it into a box to take home. Very sweetly he told Mom that he had added an extra cupcake as well.
played the happy birthday song. The delight on my Mom’s face was priceless. By the way – I did not organise the cupcake it was a complete surprise to me too. Mom was too full to eat the cupcake so Marcel put it into a box to take home. Very sweetly he told Mom that he had added an extra cupcake as well.
We thanked Marcel for the wonderful service and slowly made our way to the car. The parking attendant was near my car and he waited for me to unlock and then opened my door for me to get in!! He also opened and closed the doors for my parents.
What an amazing afternoon and such a blessing for my Mother. We still can’t stop talking about the wonderful experience, food and service.
When you are in Durban you HAVE to go to the Oyster Box Hotel and experience the high tea. High tea is served everyday in the Palm Court from 2:30 – 5pm and costs R195 per person. Booking is essential and it is best to book well in advance. You are able to book online www.oysterboxhotel.com
031-5145000
The Oyster Box
2 Lighthouse Road
Umhlanga Rocks
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| 66 years young – My Mom Sandra |