Contessa Tea Shop Stocks Approximately 70 Different Teas

Contessa Tea Connoisseur was started as a dream to introduce South Africans to the world of tea, and to create an original and relaxed environment within which to enjoy it. View Link:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/click-ka-ching/sets/72157630007420484/show/

Something which sounds like a movie script………the tea house’s name, "Contessa", came about due to a famous Contessa who lived in Italy in the late 1800, early 1900's, named Contessa Louisa Casati.

Casati was the maiden name of the original shop owner, whose grandfather hailed from Italy. The Contessa was a rather flamboyant personality who had a reputation for having exotic tea parties, often draping a python over her shoulder or walking her pet cheetah.

Now that we’ve got your attention………..
Although there is a vast range of tea available globally, but not always accessible in S.A; the original tea house owner decided to import her very own range of loose leaf tea (product not in a teabag).

The concept of enjoying loose leaf tea, as opposed to tea bags, is supported by the purists, who maintain that there is far superior flavour when tea leaves are free-moving.
The appeal in this pavement style eatery and tea shop is that it is like a breath of fresh air that hits you unexpectedly when you first enter the little shop.  You just don’t expect to find this little venue where it is located.  It has more of a Parkhurst pavement café feel or Cape Town charm and character feel about it with its wooden tables.  It has the theme of yester year and pretty mirrors and accessories that fit the little shop.  The other plus is that you don’t have to drink tea to experience or enjoy the venue.  They have a full menu of alternative hot drinks and serve a very good cappuccino, definitely a place to visit and revisit!  The content below is from their website:
There is a Japanese proverb that reads; "If man has no tea in him, he is incapable of understanding truth and beauty."  It is definitely an ongoing Contessa practice to observe and learn the appreciation of beauty all around us. The enticement of the Contessa tea range, is that it is not only delicious, but beautiful, comforting and healthy; it is also a product which requires a certain amount of sharing - reflecting the essence of tradition. It is open to interpretation, and flexible enough to appeal to anyone who consumes it.

Contessa stocks approximately 70 different teas, largely made up of its own imported range of +/- 28 loose leaf teas, and further complimented by the entire Twinings range. Some of the Contessa flavours include; Coconut Snow, Tropical Breeze, Apricot Brandy, Masala Chai, Flower Green and many more!  The addition of 82 new organic Hyson Tea flavours, brings the total tea offering to 152.

For a tea enthusiast this means you have a tea house just up your ally.  Don’t hesitate or wait to be there.  I was introduced to this unique and lovely Rivonia venue by my daughter, who had too received the nod of approval from her husband.

Simple, yet delectable breakfasts and luncheons are served, along with a beautiful selection of home-made cakes, which are baked on the premises daily. The luncheon menu changes seasonally, and Rita (who has a City & Guilds International Diploma (with distinction) in Food Preparation & Cooking, obtained through the Culinary Arts, LONDON) is always popping a little surprise or two onto the specials menu for the week – ensuring there is always something mouth-wateringly interesting to try.

Share a cup of tea with Rita and Richard… who officially took over ownership of Contessa Tea Connoisseur in November 2010.
Contesssa Tea Connoisseur Est. 1929
11th Avenue, Rivonia
Off cnr Rivonia Boulevard next to the friendly supermarket and Rivonia Primary School

~ Rita and Richard “invite you to come and enjoy a cup with them…”

www.contessateashop.co.za