High Tea at De Hoek

Was looking forward to celebrating a special birthday with an outdoor high tea at this beautiful venue. As we were a big group with various dietary requirements (gluten free vegan, Banting) there were numerous calls with Lilian to verify dietary requirements and a follow-up email to ensure that we were catered for. Upon arrival at the reservation time, we were asked to wait for close on 20mins until the table was activated. We were not attended to during this time. When we got to the table it was in the exact same condition as when we arrived with leaves and debris from the trees above. Nonetheless we were there for an experience. About 15 minutes later a plate of heaped sandwiches arrived followed by sushi, slices of cake, etc. All served together and not grouped according to dietary requirements. After much back and forth and what can be best described as a farce with the explanations from the chef being ridiculous and the cluelessness of the F&B manager Vusi, it was clear that this is what it is. We decided to make the best of the experience since there was not much on offer for the special dietary requirements due to lack of preparation and understanding. The items that could be eaten were sadly well below average for a 5 star venue. We were served tea over an hour later. Unfortunately the bad attitude, lack of accountability and integrity can only lead to things getting worse at this wonderful venue. Raising concerns to management at De Hoek falls on deaf ears. Rather escalate to info@letsema.co.za. If you have any specific requirements dietary or other, stay away from this place, the lack of attentiveness means that it can only end in a disaster. Really not worth the drive out.