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High Tea is the New Girls’ Date and Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga Is Serving It Best This Valentine’s Month.

High teas are officially trending for Galentine’s — and honestly, we’re here for it. ☕✨

If you’re in Durban and looking for the perfect excuse to dress up, sip something bubbly and indulge with your girls, Radisson Blu Umhlanga is where you need to be. The hotel hosts beautiful high teas each month, but February hits different — because it’s Valentine’s month, and the romance (and spoils) are turned all the way up.

Who said Valentine’s is only for couples? Sometimes treating your girlfriend is the best way to celebrate love. 💕 Whether it’s your bestie, your sister, or your whole girl gang — this is your sign to book that date.

What to Expect

For R465 per person, you’ll enjoy an all-you-can-eat high tea experience, complete with a welcome drink on arrival to get the celebration started.

And when we say spoilt, we mean spoilt.

Think indulgent seafood options, comforting butter chicken spoils, sweet treats, and so much more. It’s the kind of spread that keeps you going back for “just one more bite.”

Vegetarian? They’ve got you covered too — no one misses out at this table.

Pair all of that with a fantastic drinks menu and chic Umhlanga views, and you’ve got the ultimate Galentine’s outing sorted.

The Perfect Durban Setting

Set in the heart of Umhlanga with chic interiors and coastal views, the atmosphere at Radisson Blu adds that extra touch of luxury to your afternoon. It’s relaxed yet refined — ideal for photos, laughter-filled conversations, and making memories.

Whether you’re planning a Galentine’s celebration for the month, a Valentine’s spoil, or simply looking for an excuse to enjoy good food with great company, this high tea ticks every box.

Book Your Table

Durban, this is your official February plan. 💙

Seats fill up quickly — especially during Valentine’s month — so gather your girls and secure your booking here.

Dress up. Show up. Eat unlimited. Celebrate love — your way. ✨

🎥 Click here to watch our Galentines High Tea experience

Sip & Discover: Coffee Shop Gems of the Upper Highway

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mixed with the buzz of a well-loved local café. We’ve been venturing through the Upper Highway area to uncover some of its best-kept coffee secrets — from the artisan blends to the cozy corners perfect for a quiet moment or creative catch-up. Whether you’re a flat white fanatic, a croissant connoisseur, or simply love discovering local gems, this round-up highlights a few standout spots that bring more than just caffeine to the table.

• Crane Flower Coffee
• Lineage Coffee
• Noble Coffee
• Rioca/Jack’s Cafe

📍Noble Coffee – A Taste of Europe in the Upper Highway

• Located: Inside Westown Square, Shongweni, Durban, KZN – click here for directions
• Known for: Sleek, modern space with quality-focused coffee
• Expect: A curated menu, locally sourced beans, and knowledgeable baristas
• Bonus: Ideal for remote work or casual meetings with an urban, minimalist aesthetic
• Follow them on Instagram here

Tucked away in the heart of the Upper Highway area, located in the newly built Westown Square within the exciting Westown development, Noble Coffee is a standout addition to the Upper Highway’s growing coffee culture. With another branch based in Durban North, Noble is quickly becoming a name synonymous with quality, consistency, and beautifully crafted coffee experiences.

This hidden gem offers more than just your morning caffeine fix — it delivers an experience that feels worlds away.

From the moment you step inside, you’re met with a sense of calm: the space is beautifully minimal, clean, and bathed in natural light, evoking a distinctly European ambiance that instantly slows you down in the best way.

The coffee? Absolutely outstanding. Smooth, balanced, and expertly brewed — each cup is a quiet reminder of the artistry behind great coffee. One of the standout features we loved was the thoughtful presentation: every drink is served on a coaster that details the specific blend you’re enjoying, a small but memorable touch that adds intention to the entire experience. The earthy ceramic cups further elevate the moment, making every sip feel grounded and special.

While we didn’t get a chance to try the food this time (though it looked delicious!), the real highlight was the staff — friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about what they do. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee aficionado or just someone who appreciates a beautiful space and a great brew, Noble Coffee is well worth the stop.

🎥  Want to see the vibe for yourself? Click here to watch the reel and get a feel for the space, the coffee, and what makes Noble Coffee so special.

📍Lineage Coffee – Where Passion, Purpose & the Perfect Brew Meet

• Located: Inside Hillcrest Centre, Hillcrest, Durban, KZN – click here for directions
• Known for: Passionate coffee craftsmanship and a loyal following
• Expect: A serious focus on bean origin, brewing precision, and educational vibes
• Bonus: Great for coffee lovers who want to learn more, try something new or need a space to work from.
• Follow them on Instagram here

More than just a coffee stop, Lineage Coffee is a space where passion meets purpose — and where every cup has a story. During our recent visit to their Hillcrest branch (the heart of their operation), we were treated not only to excellent coffee but also to a deeply inspiring conversation with the founder himself, Craig Charity.

We enjoyed a flat white, a classic americano, and the much-loved No.7 sandwich — made with just seven ingredients, yet bursting with freshness and flavour. It’s a must-try. What made the visit truly memorable was the opportunity to sit down with Craig and hear the story behind the brand.

Craig is no stranger to excellence: he was crowned South African Barista Champion in 2013, represented the country at the World Barista Championships in 2014, placing 15th globally, and went on to win the All African Barista Championship in 2017. Beyond his accolades, Craig is a proud advocate for entrepreneurs on the autism spectrum. His raw authenticity and drive have led to the creation of three thriving Lineage branches — the Hillcrest hub (which also houses the roastery & repair centre), one in Nottingham Road, and another in Westville.

Lineage is more than just a café. It’s also a Roastery, Barista Training Centre, and Coffee Machine Repair Hub — offering a full-circle coffee experience for professionals and everyday drinkers alike.

Lineage is built on the belief that “coffee without people is pointless” — and that sentiment runs deep in everything they do. With ample plug points, open tables, and a welcoming vibe, the space is intentionally designed for people to do life — especially in today’s flexible, remote-working world.

We also had the pleasure of meeting Mark, their in-house coffee expert who trains other establishments in the art of the perfect brew, and Fanie, who has been part of Lineage since inception, over a decade. Fanie’s story is a special one: he began by helping Craig carry coffee machines to events and, through Craig’s mentorship, has grown into one of their lead roasters — always ready with a smile and an exceptional cup.

At Lineage, the coffee is smooth, the people are passionate, and the purpose is clear. It’s not just about what’s in the cup — it’s about community, connection, and creating a space where people belong.

🎥 Want to see the Lineage magic in action? Click here to watch the reel and meet the faces behind the flavour.

📍Crane Flower Coffee – Kloof’s Best-Kept Secret

• Located: Inside Robyndale Centre, Kloof, Durban, KZN – click here for directions
• Known for: A beautiful blend of botanical calm and great coffee
• Expect: Serene garden surroundings, artisanal drinks, and possibly a few surprises (like locally made treats)
• Bonus: A hidden gem for quiet reflection or a picturesque coffee date
• Follow them on Instagram here

Tucked away in the leafy heart of Kloof, Craneflower Coffee is a hidden gem you’ll be so glad you discovered — if you haven’t already.

What began as a lockdown pivot during the height of COVID-19 has blossomed into one of the Upper Highway’s most unique and charming coffee destinations.

Founded by Dale Sandy, Craneflower was born out of unexpected circumstances. After returning from the U.S. during the pandemic and finding himself “stuck” in South Africa, Dale transformed a humble garage into a beautiful, soul-filled space where coffee, creativity, and community collide. The result? A tranquil haven offering top-tier coffee, delicious toasties and incredible artisanal chocolate by Cocoa Africa — a sister brand founded by Dale’s wife, with creations almost too beautiful to eat.

Craneflower features its own on-site roastery, ensuring every cup is as fresh as it gets — expertly brewed by KZN’s top barista, crowned winner of the Battle of the Beans competition held in February 2025. Whether you settle inside the newly renovated cozy café space or enjoy the lush garden seating, you’ll find plenty of photo-worthy moments and even a few remote work-friendly spots if you’re bringing your laptop along.

The menu is simple yet satisfying — from classic toasties and bagels to their absolute must-try: the Butter Chicken & Avo Toastie on sourdough. Pro tip: it’s only available on Thursdays and Fridays, so plan your visit accordingly — it’s worth it!

With its laid-back energy, beautiful setting, artisanal chocolate treats and standout coffee, Craneflower Coffee is not just Kloof’s best-kept secret — it’s a spot you’ll want to keep coming back to.

🎥 Come see what makes Craneflower Coffee so special — click here to watch the reel and discover this tucked-away treasure for yourself.

📍Rioca Cafe/Jack’s Cafe – A Whimsical Escape in Kloof

• Located: Behind Maytime Centre, Kloof, Durban, KZN – click here for directions
• Known for: Warm, welcoming atmosphere
• Expect: A creative and flavorful menu, friendly service, and vibrant energy
• Bonus: Perfect for a mid-morning catch-up or a feel-good solo outing
• See Rioca on Instagram here | Follow Jack’s Cafe on Instagram here

Stepping into Rioca Cafe, now trading as Jack’s Cafe, feels like walking into a scene from The Magic Faraway Tree. Tucked away behind the Maytime Centre in Kloof, this enchanting spot is one of the Upper Highway’s most delightful breakfast destinations — and a true hidden gem.

From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by twinkling fairy lights dripping from the ceiling and lush greenery that fills the space with life. The cozy, plant-filled interior creates a calm and refreshing atmosphere, perfect for lingering over a coffee or catching up on work. With plenty of seating and plug points, it’s an ideal remote work location, too.

Rioca doesn’t just serve coffee — they create a full lifestyle experience. Inside, you’ll also find a boutique-style pop-up shop offering everything from home décor and candles to clothing and jewellery. So whether you’re there to sip, shop, or snack — or all three — you’re in for a treat.

Their coffee is brewed with Craneflower Coffee beans, delivering a smooth and satisfying cup every time. But what they’re really known for is their Benedicts — and rightly so. We tried the Rioca Benedict served on a hashbrown with a generous pour of silky hollandaise, but the star of the show was the Croissant Benedict: flaky, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth good.

Don’t miss the sweet treats at the counter either — their tarts and pastries are as delicious as they are beautiful.

Whether you’re in need of a quiet morning moment, a hearty breakfast, or a little retail therapy with your coffee, Rioca Cafe is the kind of place that makes you want to stay a little longer.

🎥 Come see the magic for yourself — click here to watch the reel and step inside this whimsical Kloof hideaway.