Casa Labia might be well-known for its majestic walls, gardens and interior, but it also carries a rich history that stretches over continents. Come for a grand and memorable High Tea by the sea at this timeless Venetian-style venue and step back into another era of hospitality.
Casa Labia History and Venue
Casa Labia by Ideas Cartel is situated across from the ocean in Muizenberg, Cape Town and is truly a sight to behold. Walking distance from top tourist destinations such as St. James and Kalk Bay, which were also choice destinations to the Royals of Sussex in 2019, Casa Labia is regally a cut above the rest. Casa Labia might be well-known for its majestic walls, gardens and interior, but it also carries a rich history that stretches over continents. Casa Labia’s History writes, “From the start the house was intended to be not merely a family home, but also the Italian Legation, the official residence of Italy’s diplomatic representative in South Africa. As such it had to be essentially Italian in style and character. In particular it was to reflect the spirit of 18th century Venice, it was to be a Cape version of the Palazzo Labia. The man chosen to draw up the plans for the house was the well-known Cape Town architect, the late Fred Glennie.” A visit to this timeless venue captures the confluence where past and present collides.
Experiences at Casa Labia by Ideas Cartel
At first glance this remarkably well-preserved and alluring locale seems ominous, only to be appreciated form a distance. It is therefore truly fascinating and exciting to be introduced to all the wonderous experiences offered by this establishement, even more so, I would believe, to experience them all, one-by-one. The Venue can be hired for up-market events, such as weddings and other high-end functions, catering for every occasion. The Restaurant is open Monday to Sunday for Breakfast and Lunch, and Fridays and Saturdays dinner is also served from their A La Carte Menu. The Rooms, being the blue room and the yellow room, are said to provide an “exceptional experience – styled to pay homage to history while giving a nod to modern inspiration”. The Unique Experiences include a Golf, Inner City, Hike, Beach Side and Work & Play Experience, which can comprise of a 2 night stay for 2 people, coctails at the Cartel bar, lounge or rooftop, a golf lesson or workout session, brunch at the Cartel cafe, lunch with a view, a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne in your room and a hike with a tour guide. The High Tea by the Sea is scheduled at specific times in the morning or afternoon, in the venue’s breathtakingly, story-book-like, Ballroom.
The High Tea
Prepare to be captivated from the moment you walk up the steps of this baronial building. On entry natural light bursts through the glass windows, highlighting the unique, classic and bygone décor, art and design surrounding you. Imagine having gracefully and willingly tumbled down the rabbit hole, just like Alice in Wonderland, drinking tea with beautifully golden-outlined vintage cups and causers, with decadent ‘a-bite-or-two-sized’ delicacies, arrayed neatly and flamboyantly on a three teared cake stand. The difference is there is no chaos as the experience is perfectoin.
From the moment you are welcomed at the door, to the arrival at your table, moment-by-moment, sip-by-sip, bite-by-bite, you are lavished with luxury and delight and your senses will not be able to keep up. And their delicious tea blends, with names such as Pinotage Rooibos, Jasmine Queen, Devils’ Advocate, the Connoisseur and Sticky Naartjie, will make your final selection not just a pleasurable one, but also bursting with flavour. This lovely, charming, quiet and luxury High Tea experience is a ‘devoir’ and can be enjoyed by the youthful, the more muture and even the dainty.
This incredible memorial to a lush part of our world’s history has stood the test of time and continues to find its voice in our modern society. For a guaranteed luxurious event or experience, be it lunch, dinner, business or family soiree or just a delightful High Tea by the Sea, Casa Labia by Ideas Cartel is the choice place to be.
Casa Labia by Ideas Cartel Service options:
Dine-in Address: 1
92 Main Rd, Muizenberg
Cape Town, South Africa
Contact details: +27 21 180 3119
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BeSeeingYou In: Muizenberg, Cape Town, South Africa
Good to Know: Pre-bookings are essential at Casa Labia by Ideas Cartel.
Wow! Factor: The High Tea experience is food-gasmic!
Tip: The venue is walking distance from Muizenberg, St. James and Kalk Bay
Author bio: Anke Ferreira Photographic credit: Rika Boersma
Instagram: @anks_ferreira / @thethinkingfund